Mayelin is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of leadership development, mental health in faith-based communities, family therapy, and organizational wellness.
Mayelin Lima, LCSW, is a respected clinician and executive with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and behavioral health. As the President and CEO of Lifeway Center, she blends her clinical expertise with compassionate leadership, supporting both her team and the community with grace and integrity. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and holds a Master of Social Work from Florida International University, and pursued a Master of Arts in Professional Behavioral Analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology.
Mayelin has led diverse mental health programs including residential treatment, outpatient therapy, infant mental health, and re-entry programs in collaboration with the Department of Corrections. She is skilled at managing multidisciplinary teams, developing treatment protocols, and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards.
Her leadership is inspired by Isaiah 40:31 (NIV):
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles…”
Beyond her professional roles, Mayelin finds joy in interior design, gardening, and serving in church ministry.
Laura Dahne brings decades of Christ-centered leadership, pastoral care, and community healing to her role as Chairwoman of the Board at Lifeway Programs. For the past several years, she has faithfully volunteered in this capacity because she deeply believes in the vision of Lifeway’s Founder, Mayelin Lima, and in the excellent, transformative services the organization provides.
Laura and Mayelin’s partnership began long before Lifeway, when they served side by side at a previous agency, leading separate departments but walking in unity under the same mission—demonstrating Christian compassion to those in pain. Today, Laura continues to lend her voice, wisdom, and heart to Lifeway’s board, guiding the ministry toward spiritual integrity and service excellence.
In addition to her governance role, Laura is a passionate communicator and shepherd of the soul. As an ordained Pastor, Grief Counselor, and Personal Growth Coach, she has led countless small groups, women’s conferences, and community initiatives. Her core message is Christ-centered inner healing and emotional restoration, speaking boldly about the often-overlooked journey of soul repair.
For eight years, she served as Chaplaincy Director at The Agape Network in Miami, where her multidimensional ministry touched people across cultural, generational, and spiritual spectrums. Laura has also served as a grief counselor for Christ Fellowship of Miami and other ministry settings, offering sacred space and biblical hope to those experiencing loss.
She is the founder and weekly host of the Encouragement Now podcast, where she blends Scripture, life experience, and practical counsel to uplift and inspire listeners in their walk with God. Her published works include A Broken-Winged Eagle—a dual-audience guide for both those grieving and those walking with the grieving—and The Master Gardener, which explores the sacredness of the wounded heart and God’s redemptive love.
Laura’s life, ministry, and leadership are anchored in her unwavering belief that faith, people, and words have the power to build meaningful connections and community. Through her service at Lifeway Programs, she continues to champion the organization’s mission of healing and transformation.
Dr. Timothy Tyler is available for in-person and virtual speaking engagements and consultations on nonprofit leadership, behavioral health program development, educational equity, and faith-based organizational strategy.
Dr. Timothy Tyler is a seasoned executive and educator with over thirty years of impact across South Florida’s behavioral health and education systems. As a dedicated Board Member of Lifeway Programs, he brings deep expertise in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and systems change, anchored in a lifelong commitment to serving children, families, and communities through faith and integrity.
Timothy’s professional journey has been defined by a call to bridge the gap between crisis and care. Beginning as a teacher, administrator, and coach in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, he spent nearly 20 years shaping academic and character development for thousands of students. His leadership inspired excellence, discipline, and hope from the classroom to the field.
His passion for community wellness led him to expand his reach through public health initiatives. As Director of Programs at Agape Network and now Director of Research and development, Dr. Tyler has been instrumental in designing and implementing behavioral health systems that serve youth and families across Miami-Dade County. His work includes launching Telehealth initiatives, managing multi-agency partnerships, and leading the development of programs in collaboration with school districts, juvenile justice systems, and family service networks.
Dr. Tyler also served as Program Administrator for Health Connect in Our Schools, overseeing 28 school-based Telehealth clinics and multiple hub sites. His leadership ensured underserved communities had access to quality, data-driven care while strengthening accountability and innovation across provider networks.
He holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Learning and Leadership with a specialization in Human Resource Development from Barry University, a Master’s in Education from the University of Miami, and a Bachelor’s in Rehabilitative Services from Murray State University. His early academic and athletic achievements at Bakersfield College laid the foundation for a life of excellence, service, and faith.
Dr. Tyler’s board leadership at Lifeway Programs is marked by wisdom, humility, and vision. He supports Lifeway’s mission to link individuals to their soaring potential and its efforts to offer healing that is not only clinically effective but also spiritually transformative.
He also holds firmly the organizations guiding Scripture in Isaiah 58:12 (NIV):
“You will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.”
Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Tyler enjoys mentoring youth, contributing to leadership development initiatives, and advocating for systems that reflect justice, compassion, and opportunity for all.
Jack Hakimian is a mission-driven strategist, Christian counselor, and transformational leader devoted to advancing LifeWay Center’ vision of holistic healing. As Chief Growth Officer, Jack leads initiatives that amplify the organization’s impact through community partnerships, innovative outreach, and sustainable marketing efforts—all grounded in biblical principles and cultural insight.
With over 30 years of experience in ministry, cross-cultural engagement, and business development, Jack brings a unique blend of wisdom, creativity, and compassion to his work. He holds a Master of Arts in Cross-Cultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and a B.A. in Pastoral Ministry from Life Pacific College. On March 26, 2014, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson awarded Jack a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for outstanding and invaluable service to the community.
Jack’s passion is helping people and organizations thrive by unlocking their God-given purpose and potential. At LifeWay, he champions growth strategies that are not only effective but also spiritually transformative.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7
Empowered by this promise, Jack equips LifeWay to serve with boldness, compassion, and clarity—helping individuals and families soar on wings like eagles (Isaiah 40:31).
German is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of clinical supervision, behavior analysis, mental health systems, addiction recovery, and leadership in Christian counseling.
German Alfaro is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and seasoned Clinical Director with over 20 years of experience in psychology, behavioral health, and organizational leadership. He currently leads the clinical team at Lifeway Center, ensuring quality, compliance, and compassionate care throughout the organization. He holds a Master of Science in Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, with a concentration in Industrial Organizational Psychology and Mental Health Counseling, and is also a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst through the Florida Institute of Technology.
Throughout his career, German has held clinical and supervisory roles across major healthcare organizations, overseeing hundreds of therapists and clinicians in both outpatient and residential settings. His expertise spans mental health and substance abuse services, human trafficking recovery, child welfare systems, and reentry support.
German leads with spiritual conviction, guided by Romans 12:2 (NIV):
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
An outdoorsman at heart, he enjoys fishing, camping, bonsai gardening, and teaching others to appreciate God’s creation.
Maria is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of healthcare billing, revenue cycle optimization, denials management, and administrative systems in faith-based settings.
Maria Reyes is a seasoned Certified Revenue Cycle Professional with over 18 years of experience in healthcare administration. She specializes in strategic planning, process improvement, and optimizing revenue cycle systems to enhance operational efficiency and financial performance. Prior to joining Lifeway Center, she held key administrative roles in hospitals, group practices, and community health centers—successfully navigating high-volume environments with professionalism and grace.
Maria holds a Master’s in Health Services Administration (MHSA) and certifications in medical billing and coding. She is an active member of both the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management and the American Academy of Professional Coders, staying current with evolving industry standards.
Her leadership and diligence are anchored in her favorite verse, Joshua 1:9 (NIV):
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
When she’s not streamlining systems, Maria enjoys community development work and roller skating—a perfect reflection of her energetic, focused, and faith-filled spirit.
Dr. Gonzalez is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of integrative medicine, family health, clinical research, and whole-person wellness from a biblical perspective.
Dr. Misael Gonzalez, M.D., is a licensed physician and the Medical Director at Lifeway Center, bringing over 30 years of experience in pediatrics, integrative medicine, and clinical research. He holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and completed residency training in Pediatrics at the JM Marquez Pediatric Hospital in Havana, Cuba. He later pursued specialized training through a Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and coursework in Integrative Cancer Therapy in Miami.
In addition to leading private and family practice services in Florida, Dr. Gonzalez has served as a Principal Investigator in multiple large-scale clinical trials, including studies in COPD, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, fibromyalgia, and hormone therapy. He’s a certified expert in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and has been featured on Miami’s Mira TV and Telemundo as a medical host and author.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Gonzalez leads with compassion and faith, creating treatment experiences rooted in clinical science and spiritual encouragement.
Richard is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of preventative care, chronic disease management, patient education, and integrative health rooted in Christian values.
Richard Eduardo Arevalo is a compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 24 years of healthcare experience—spanning roles as a physician, registered nurse, medical educator, and now advanced practice provider. He holds a Master of Science in Nursing from South University and is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. His extensive background includes training in both traditional and functional medicine, with a holistic approach to patient care.
Before joining Lifeway Center, Richard served in various high-impact settings including hospitals, clinics, and educational institutions across the U.S. and Latin America. He specializes in managing chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension, conducting physical assessments, and coordinating treatment plans with interdisciplinary teams. His gentle communication style and deep clinical knowledge make him a trusted provider among patients of all ages.
Richard is strengthened by Joshua 1:8-9 (NIV):
“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Outside of his clinical work, Richard enjoys outdoor activities and serving in healthcare outreach missions.
Yisel is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of chronic illness management, preventative health education, maternal and prenatal care, and bilingual community health initiatives.
Yisel Neyra Fajardo is a compassionate and highly skilled Family Nurse Practitioner with over 24 years of healthcare experience spanning international medical training, registered nursing, and advanced practice care. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner from South University and is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Currently serving at Lifeway Center, Yisel provides integrative care for underserved populations—managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and depression while offering holistic patient education and preventative care. Her background also includes high-acuity roles in telemetry, cardiac step-down, oncology, and maternal health, with fluency in both English and Spanish.
Rooted in faith, Yisel draws strength from Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV):
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding… and He will make your paths straight.”
Outside of the clinic, Yisel volunteers her time to expand healthcare access in underserved communities and cherishes moments with her family.
Beatriz is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of Christian counseling, marriage and family therapy, child and adolescent care, and faith-based emotional healing.
Beatriz Morales is a deeply rooted Christian counselor with over 30 years of Spirit-filled faith and ministry experience. She holds a Master of Art in Christian Counseling from Redoma Christian College and multiple advanced certifications from the National Christian Counseling Association, including Child and Adolescent Therapy, Integrated Marriage and Family Therapy, and Temperament Counseling.
Beatriz currently serves as a therapist with Lifeway Center, where she provides biblically grounded mental health counseling for individuals and families of all ages. She is also a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and First Responder Chaplain with the Assemblies of God, bringing spiritual comfort and guidance to those navigating life’s most difficult moments. Her warm, bilingual presence and deep compassion help clients grow emotionally, spiritually, and relationally.
Her life is anchored in Philippians 4:13 (NIV):
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Outside of counseling, Beatriz enjoys mission trips, family time, walking outdoors, and shopping with joy.
Dominique is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of trauma-informed care, youth and family wellness, grief and identity counseling, and reintegration support.
Dominique Jones is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience delivering mental health services to diverse communities across Miami. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Science in Sports, Entertainment, and Event Management from Johnson & Wales University.
Dominique specializes in trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy for individuals aged 4 to 85, including those impacted by substance use, systemic trauma, incarceration, domestic violence, and grief. She provides individual, group, and family therapy, as well as marriage counseling, identity exploration, and psychoeducation. Whether in homes, schools, or community spaces, Dominique’s goal is to help each client rediscover hope and resilience.
She draws strength from Genesis 9:16 (NIV):
“Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant…”
Beyond her clinical practice, Dominique is active in women’s wellness ministry, youth and elderly care, and enjoys quality time with loved ones, church life, and discovering new local food spots.
Ivonne is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of family restoration, biblical counseling, Christian leadership development, and discipleship training.
Ivonne Chao Lamas is a seasoned therapist, ministry leader, and teacher with over 27 years of experience in biblical counseling, theology, and spiritual development. She holds both a Master’s Degree and Doctorate in Biblical Counseling from Victorious Christian Life Institute and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from the National Evangelical Seminary of Cuba, accredited by the International Baptist Christian Theological Seminary.
Ivonne’s passion for equipping the body of Christ has taken her across Cuba, Guatemala, and now Florida, where she continues to counsel individuals and families at Lifeway Center. She has led regional ministry operations, developed discipleship curricula, and facilitated countless workshops that merge emotional healing with the truth of God’s Word.
In addition to her clinical and pastoral roles, Ivonne also holds a Florida license to sell life and health insurance, broadening her ability to serve with practical and spiritual care.
Her heart is grounded in Colossians 2:14-15 (NIV):
“Having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness… He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross…”
Linda is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of trauma-informed care, family healing, adolescent mental health, and culturally competent counseling.
Linda Tobar is a passionate therapist with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling from Barry University. With a heart for holistic care and a trauma-informed, culturally competent approach, Linda delivers client-centered therapy that integrates clinical excellence with spiritual sensitivity.
She has provided individual, group, and family counseling across community programs, outpatient settings, and church-based initiatives. Her professional experience spans roles at Lifeway Center, Face to Face Mental Health Services, and the Agape Network. Linda is also a Certified Strengthening Families Coach and has received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), suicide prevention, and adolescent trauma.
Her guiding verse is 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV):
“He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
Outside of her professional work, Linda enjoys reading, arts and crafts, and spending time with her family.
Luis is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of biblical counseling, marriage and family restoration, Christian leadership development, and discipleship.
Luis E. Gutierrez Orantes is a seasoned biblical counselor, spiritual mentor, and ministry leader with over 30 years of experience in counseling, discipleship, and cross-cultural missions. He holds both a Doctorate and a Master’s Degree in Biblical Counseling from the Victorious Christian Life Institute, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology with an emphasis in missions from the National Evangelical Seminary of Cuba, accredited by the International Baptist Christian Theological Seminary.
Currently serving as a therapist at Lifeway Center, Luis provides biblically grounded emotional and spiritual support to individuals and families. He has overseen major ministry operations throughout Cuba and Guatemala, led family-strengthening workshops, trained Christian leaders, and developed discipleship programs to equip churches in challenging environments.
Luis lives by the powerful truth of Romans 5:8 (NVI):
“Mas Dios demuestra su amor para con nosotros, en que siendo aún pecadores, Cristo murió por nosotros.”
Passionate about sports, health, and teaching, Luis continues to walk alongside others in their journey toward restoration and purpose through Christ.
Melissa is available for In-Person and Virtual Workshops in the areas of trauma recovery, anxiety and depression treatment, life transitions, and evidence-based therapy integration.
Melissa Ortega is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a Master of Science in Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, and over a decade of clinical experience serving diverse populations with compassion and clinical precision. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Melissa is known for establishing strong therapeutic relationships rooted in trust and empathy.
She currently provides therapy at Lifeway Programs and also leads her own private practice, Manifest Mental Health, where she specializes in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. Melissa incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions, delivering care that is both evidence-based and tailored to each client’s journey.
Her work is guided by Galatians 6:2 (NIV):
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys Disney adventures, video games, family time, and exploring her love for makeup artistry.
Tiffany is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of adolescent mental health, trauma-informed care, family therapy, and culturally responsive counseling.
Tiffany Collado is a bilingual Dominican-American Registered Clinical Social Work Intern with over seven years of experience supporting youth and families across Miami’s diverse communities. She holds a Master’s in Social Work from Florida International University and a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Florida Gulf Coast University, equipping her with a strong foundation in clinical practice and community engagement.
Her professional background includes therapeutic roles at organizations such as Westcare Foundation, Camillus House, Citrus Health Network, and Espiga Health. Tiffany has provided trauma-specific care for children in foster care, facilitated group and individual therapy, and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop holistic treatment plans. She is passionate about walking alongside adolescents and families in crisis, helping them restore hope and purpose through compassionate, evidence-based interventions.
Tiffany’s work is rooted in faith, compassion, and service, inspired by 1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIV):
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms… Serve the Lord.”
Outside of her clinical role, Tiffany enjoys feeding families in need, participating in outreach events, working out, visiting the beach, and singing karaoke.
Yenfa is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of trauma-informed care, case management, adolescent therapy, and mental wellness in multicultural communities.
Yenfa Arias is a compassionate and dedicated mental health therapist with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals and families through complex emotional and systemic challenges. She earned her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University and her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Cum Laude) from Florida International University.
Currently serving at Lifeway Center, Yenfa has previously worked as a therapist and lead case manager at organizations such as Agape Network and Comprehensive Health Services. Her experience includes outpatient therapy, crisis intervention, unaccompanied minor reunification, and care coordination for clients navigating legal, social, and emotional obstacles. She specializes in delivering bilingual counseling services rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and strength-based care.
Her guiding verse is Romans 12:2 (KJV):
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
Outside of her clinical work, Yenfa enjoys volunteering with Blue Missions, creating arts and crafts, and bringing beauty into daily life through her creativity and compassion.
Kylani is available for In-Person and Virtually in the areas of administrative coordination, client communication, and team support within faith-based wellness programs.
Kylani Morel is a committed Administrative Assistant with a strong foundation in customer service, office management, and team collaboration. Currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Social Work at Florida International University, she also holds an Associate of Arts in Social Work from Miami Dade College.
With a background in both administrative operations and leadership roles at Lifeway Center and Starbucks, Kylani brings a warm, service-oriented presence to every setting. She’s experienced in eligibility verification, data entry, scheduling, and client intake coordination—all while fostering a welcoming, Christ-centered atmosphere for clients and staff alike.
Her faith and work ethic are deeply rooted in Galatians 2:20 (NIV):
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me…”
Outside of work, Kylani serves faithfully on her local church’s worship team and enjoys homemaking, reading, piano, and caring for animals—all expressions of her nurturing heart and creative spirit.
