Healthy People, Families & Communities
Meet Our Team of Experts
Experience you can count on to guide and support you every step of the way.
Joshua Katib
Licensed Mental Health
Counselor | CEO
Joshua Katib
Licensed Mental Health
Counselor | CEO
Joshua Katib | Licensed Mental Health Counselor | LMHC | QS | CEO
Right now, you might be feeling stuck, frustrated, tired, or even hopeless. You’re searching for answers and solutions that will restore peace to your life. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and found it helpful, or perhaps you’ve been hesitant but are now thinking, “I’ve tried everything else, so why not give this a shot?” Either way, one thing is clear: you want change—whether in yourself, your relationships, or your life.
Finding the right person to work with can make all the difference between a successful and unsuccessful therapy experience. You want to feel confident that you’re in the right place and in the right hands.
I hold a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies. I am equally comfortable addressing spiritual matters as I am psychological issues. My therapy experience spans a range of mental health disorders—such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis, addictions, and conduct issues—but I’ve developed a special focus on three key areas I’m deeply passionate about: relationships, parenting, and trauma.
I don’t take it lightly when someone chooses to meet with me. I don’t see people as “just a person” but as a whole human being—body, mind, and spirit—who is also in relationship with others. These aspects play a crucial role in how we experience wellness and connection. When we work together, I won’t rush to assume I know what’s best for you, your relationships, or your family. Instead, I’ll listen closely and ask thoughtful questions to ensure I understand your unique needs before discussing an appropriate starting point for the changes you’re seeking. My approach to therapy is supportive, informative, and practical.
As a man, husband, and father with my own story, I draw from both the best therapeutic practices and my own experiences to help you navigate the challenges in your life. Whether we’re working on improving your relationships, addressing your child’s behaviors, or processing past experiences that have left you feeling “broken,” you’ll be met with respect, empathy, and a practical plan that empowers you to experience the quality of life and relationships you desire.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
- Couples, parenting, and trauma
- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Faith-based counseling
- ADHD – child, adolescent, and adult.
Claudette Gonzalez
Licensed Marriage & Family
Therapist | Clinical Director
Claudette Gonzalez
Licensed Marriage & Family
Therapist | Clinical Director
Claudette Gonzalez | Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist | Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Clinical Director
Have you ever felt that you didn’t have a hold on your own life? Sometimes, we can feel stuck and clueless on the next step to take. Does this sound familiar:
- “I just want to be okay.”
- “I feel so trapped!”
- “I don’t want to feel like this anymore!”
- “What’s happening to me? To us?”
I believe therapy is great first step toward finding the answers you’re looking for.
I believe that the relationship between a person and their therapist is the most important part of therapy. The connection and safety you experience with your therapist is fundamental to your journey toward wholeness and wellness.
My deepest desire as a therapist is that I come to understand all parts of who you are, to truly see you; it is very important to be able to work all parts of yourself and be seen for each of them. To create that safe environment, I work with compassion, creativity, and integrity.
One thing I can always promise you is that I will be true to you and your therapy experience. I practice being myself for you to practice being yourself. I also believe in the present moment and understand that your needs for therapy may change from one moment to another because it is a journey so, you can expect that I will be flexible with your process.
Who can I help?
I obtained my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also earned a Bachelor’s in Biology and Psychology. For the past 14 years, I have worked in different roles in the mental health field. I have experience with a variety of needs, disorders, and different levels of care. From mentorship to independent living skills, coordination of care, behavior management, and my most current role (and passion) mental health counseling, I do it with my full heart because it is something that I believe is essential for growth, support, and the community.
While I have experience with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, phase of life (i.e., transitions), behavioral issues, and ADHD, I have specialized training in the areas of trauma and couples counseling. Whether we’re working together on an individual basis, in couples counseling, or even family counseling, I look forward to walking alongside you as we work together to help you reclaim your voice and your life.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- ADHD – child, adolescent, and adult.
Sandy Michael
Licensed Mental Health
Counselor
Sandy Michael
Licensed Mental Health
Counselor
Sandy Michael | Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
Have you ever felt like you’re carrying more than your share of emotional weight? Struggling to connect in your relationships, or wondering why certain patterns keep repeating in your life? What if healing wasn’t just possible—but already within reach, with the right support?
My passion for helping others and providing support during difficult times inspired me to become a therapist so that I could effectively help people just like you. I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment where you will feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore your emotions and challenges. Throughout my personal and professional journey, I’ve seen how healing and growth are possible when individuals are given the right tools and compassionate support.
My academic background—Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy—along with additional training in evidence-based therapies such as Gottman Method (couples), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), have helped me develop an integrative approach to treatment. I tailor my methods to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, ensuring a personalized approach that fosters real change.
In our work together, you can expect a supportive, empathetic environment where you’re treated with respect and understanding. I believe in building a strong rapport and fostering trust, which is essential for meaningful therapeutic work. Together, we will work towards achieving your goals and addressing the challenges that are impacting your life. My hope is that clients leave with a deeper understanding of themselves, equipped with healthier coping strategies and the tools they need to manage life’s challenges. Ultimately, I aim to empower clients to better navigate their emotions, relationships, and overall well-being.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Arabic
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Faith-Based Counseling
Alexis Marquez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Alexis Marquez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Alexis Marquez | Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
You’ve spent so much time trying to keep things together showing up for work, family, and responsibilities but inside, you’re running on empty. The anxiety, the exhaustion, the constant push to stay strong… it’s catching up with you. Maybe it’s trauma that keeps resurfacing, ADHD that makes life feel unmanageable, or the quiet struggle of addiction and recovery. You might not know where to start, only that something has to change.
Therapy is that place where you can finally stop pretending and start rebuilding. My role is to create a safe, grounded space where you can slow down, unpack what’s been weighing you down, and learn to reconnect with yourself. I bring honesty, compassion, and structure into every session we move at your pace, not by a script. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in authentic connection, helping you understand what’s happening beneath the surface and empowering you to take back control of your life.
Having worked in law enforcement, I understand the silent pressure of being the strong one especially for first responders and veterans who often carry invisible wounds. You don’t have to do this alone anymore. Together, we’ll work toward balance, clarity, and the peace you’ve been missing.
I earned my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling and bring experience from both law enforcement and higher education. My background has given me a strong foundation in crisis intervention, trauma response, and professional development allowing me to support clients through both personal and occupational stress.
In higher education, I served in career counseling and coaching, helping individuals navigate transitions, burnout, and rediscover purpose in their work. In the mental health field, I’ve worked with adults and adolescents facing trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and addiction recovery.
I’m bilingual—English and Spanish—which allows me to provide accessible, culturally responsive care to diverse communities. My work is guided by empathy, authenticity, and collaboration creating an environment where clients can heal, grow, and regain a sense of control in their lives.
Professional Highlights
- Trauma & PTSD
- First Responders & Veterans
- Substance Use & Addiction Recovery
- ADHD (Child, Adolescent, Adult)
- Career Counseling & Life Transitions
- Bilingual Services (English & Spanish)
Mariely Fernandez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Mariely Fernandez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Mariely Fernandez | Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
There’s a moment in all of us when we pause and think, “There has to be a better way to feel than this.” That moment, quiet, brave, and honest, is often where healing begins.
I believe every person carries that inner wisdom, even when life feels overwhelming or disconnected. My work begins with honoring that truth: you already hold the seeds of healing and growth within you.
As a clinician, I see each person not as a collection of problems to solve, but as a whole human being with a story that deserves care and respect. Mind, body, emotions, and the quieter inner self all matter. When these parts are listened to and understood, real transformation becomes possible. My goal is to create a space where you can breathe a little easier; a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, curious, and gently challenged when you’re ready.
In our work together, I draw from tools that support both clarity and calm. This may include simple mindful practices, grounding breathwork, or strategies that help untangle unhelpful thought patterns. I also integrate movement-aware techniques and insights from the mind–body connection, always adapting to what feels right and natural for you. Instead of pushing for change, we move at a pace that respects your history, your strengths, and your capacity in each moment.
At the heart of it all is a belief I hold deeply: you are the expert of your own life. My role isn’t to tell you who to be, it’s to walk alongside you as you rediscover your resilience, break old cycles, and build a life that feels balanced, empowered, and authentically yours.
Compassion, respect, and genuine connection guide every session. I understand how vulnerable it can feel to step into this work, and I’m committed to offering steady, grounded support as you move toward the life you want…one small, meaningful step at a time.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
- Women’s Issues
- Anxiety and Depression
- Life Transitions
- Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Jennell Elias
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
Jennell Elias
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
Jennell Elias | Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
Few things feel quite as lonely as having a distant or injured relationship with the people who are supposed to feel like “home”. We argue in circles until we reach a point of ‘nothing changes anyway’ so we just… stop. We pull away. We start to feel like strangers in our own home.
It’s even more challenging when children or teens are involved. It can be beyond frustrating to feel like we aren’t getting through to our kids, no matter how many different ways we try to explain. Add co-parents or step-parents to the mix? Now we’re weeding through layers of complexity that, frankly, feel too overwhelming to even know where to begin.
That’s where I come in. One of the first things people notice when working with me is that I have a deep respect for their unique stories. I don’t assume I’m the expert on their lives or try to judge anyone. I focus on understanding where you are coming from and where you want to go so I can help support the process to get there.
After that, we start rolling up our sleeves. We’re not just going to “talk about feelings”, we’re going to build skills and change patterns so you have the tools you need to keep up the momentum moving forward. For couples, that might mean healing through past wounds, learning to resolve conflict better, or life-proofing your relationship against future curveballs. For families, it might mean helping you learn ways to finally get through to each other, or doing a mix of sessions where it’s either just the adults in the room, or the kids have the spotlight. Ultimately, the best approach will depend on what we decide together based on your goals.
What I bring to my sessions comes from, both, a professional and personal place. I’m a wife of over ten years, a mom of three, a daughter of aging parents, a sister, and more — so the messy, complicated reality of navigating familial relationships is not just theory to me. I’ve worked in a range of clinical settings since 2015, when I earned a Master’s in Couples, Marriage and Family Therapy. I also gained a Master’s in Business Administration since then and have developed extensive knowledge on the unique challenges that high performing couples, or individuals, experience in their already-demanding lives. And, because traditional therapy sessions are sometimes not the best fit for everyone, I’ve also spent years providing relationship coaching, workshops, and education to couples and families in Central Florida. I have seen first hand the transformative power that healing, whether as individuals, as a couple, or as a family, can have, not just over our lives but also in generations to come. If you’re ready, I’m looking forward to helping you see for yourself.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
- Couples, Marriage & Family Therapy
- For Couples: PREPARE/ENRICH & Gottman Methodology
- For Children: Play Therapy Techniques
- Relationship Coaching & Education
- High-Performing Individuals & Couples
Support Staff
Karla Katib
Executive Manager
Karla Katib
Executive Manager
Karla Katib | Executive Manager
I am passionate about connecting individuals with the right counselor to meet their unique needs as they embark on or continue their counseling journey. Whether someone is seeking support for the first time or looking to deepen their therapeutic experience, I am dedicated to ensuring they are matched with the professional best suited to guide them. In my role as Executive Manager, I strive for excellence in every facet of patient care, bringing both knowledge and experience to lead my team in creating an environment where our clients feel valued and supported. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the transformative impact counseling can have, and I consider it a privilege to be a part of this process.
With extensive experience in organizing and managing staff, I am committed to ensuring that our team delivers the highest level of service to the Central Florida community. I take pride in contributing to CityLight’s mission of making a positive difference in people’s lives and supporting mental health in the community. Additionally, as a bilingual professional, I am proud to offer services in both English and Spanish, helping to bridge the gap for Spanish-speaking individuals who seek counseling but may feel more comfortable communicating in their native language.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
- Executive Manager
Maria Bonilla
Patient Care Coordinator
Maria Bonilla
Patient Care Coordinator
Maria Bonilla | Patient Care Coordinator
As Patient Care Coordinator, I am passionate about helping individuals take their first steps toward counseling with confidence and comfort. My goal is to ensure every client feels welcomed and connected with the counselor best suited to meet their unique needs. I understand that beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, and I strive to make the process smooth, compassionate, and personalized for every person and family we serve.
With a BA in Psychology and aspirations of becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I bring both academic knowledge and a genuine commitment to fostering growth and healing. Being bilingual in English and Spanish allows me to support a broader community, ensuring language is never a barrier to accessing care.
As a mom of three, I know firsthand the importance of balance, support, and connection. I cherish time with my children, enjoy the companionship of my pets, and find relaxation in watching true crime documentaries in my spare time. I am honored to play a role in CityLight’s mission of making a lasting impact on mental health and well-being in our community.
Professional Highlights
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
- BA in Psychology
- Patient Care Coordinator
Abigail Leek
Administrative Student Intern
Abigail Leek
Administrative Student Intern
Abigail Leek | Administrative Student Intern
As Administrative Student Intern, I am passionate about supporting the behind-the-scenes work that allows our clients and clinicians to have the best possible experience. I believe that excellence is found in the details, and I strive to approach every task with professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to delivering high-quality work. Whether assisting our administrative team or contributing to special projects, I enjoy being part of a mission that helps people find hope, healing, and connection.
Currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Central Florida, I plan to continue my education by earning a Master’s degree in Clinical Marriage and Family Therapy. Growing up in a military family as the eldest of two daughters has given me a deep appreciation for resilience, service, and community, while also inspiring my passion for supporting veterans and their families. With family roots in Christian radio, I’ve developed a genuine love for hearing people’s stories and understanding the experiences that shape who they are.
Outside of work and school, you’ll often find me exploring the outdoors, seeking out my next adventure, or enjoying a great alternative rock concert. I am honored to be part of CityLight Counseling and excited to grow both personally and professionally while supporting our mission of bringing compassionate, quality mental health care to our community.
Professional Highlights
- Administrative Student Intern
- Pursuing a BS in Clinical Psychology – University of Central Florida
- Aspiring Marriage & Family Therapist
- Passionate about Veteran advocacy and mental health
Jaida Bonilla
Marketing & Communications Intern
Jaida Bonilla
Marketing & Communications Intern
Jaida Bonilla | Marketing & Communications Intern
As Marketing & Communications Intern, I am passionate about using creativity and meaningful communication to help connect individuals and families with the resources they need. I enjoy finding thoughtful ways to share CityLight Counseling’s mission, support community outreach efforts, and create content that reflects the hope and healing available through mental health care. I believe every person’s story matters, and I love helping tell those stories in ways that encourage others to take the first step toward support.
I am currently pursuing my Associate of Arts degree at Valencia College’s Lake Nona Campus and plan to continue my education before attending the police academy. My long-term goal is to serve my community through a career in law enforcement, with a special interest in forensic psychology and understanding the human stories behind every case.
Originally from Arizona, I now call Osceola County home, where I enjoy spending time with my family, my dogs, and my pet snakes. Growing up in church ministry and surrounded by military family members instilled in me a heart for service, integrity, and community. Outside of work and school, you’ll usually find me enjoying a Starbucks coffee, watching anime, or listening to a classic Evanescence playlist. I am grateful to be part of CityLight Counseling and excited to use my creativity to help expand our impact throughout the community.
Professional Highlights
- Marketing & Communications Intern
- Pursuing an Associate of Arts – Valencia College, Lake Nona Campus
- Aspiring Law Enforcement Professional
- Passionate about Forensic Psychology, Community Outreach, and Public Service
