Interns

Miriam Mota-García - MSW

Miriam was born and raised in Mexico. In 2007, she relocated to Florida, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in social work, graduating cum laude from the University of Central Florida. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in clinical social work at the same institution. As a Master of Social Work (MSW) intern, Miriam is passionate about providing culturally competent counseling to support the Hispanic community. With a strong foundation in social work principles and a commitment to empowering individuals and families, she strives to help her clients achieve their goals and become the best versions of themselves. Miriam works collaboratively with her clients to create a safe and supportive environment for addressing mental health challenges, life transitions, and social barriers. Her personal experiences—raising children, being an adult student, maintaining a 24-year marriage, and living in three different countries—have helped her develop cultural competence and foster resilience. In her free time, Miriam enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

Miryeth Rico - MSW

Miryeth was born in Cali, Colombia. She has dedicated her life to serving and caring for others. A nurse by profession, Miryeth has always felt a deep vocation to help those who need it most. This spirit of service led her to expand her knowledge in the field of psychology, pursuing a bachelor's degree that has allowed her to address the well-being of her patients from a comprehensive perspective. Currently finishing the last year of a master's in clinical social work, Miryeth continues to prepare to offer even more specialized and empathetic support, with the goal of empowering and guiding people invulnerable situations. Among her most notable achievements is the creation of the Corazón de Impacto Foundation, a project that was born from her firm desire to make a real difference in the community. The foundation represents one of her greatest challenges and satisfactions, a space in which she strives every day to provide support to those who are going through difficult times and to sow hope in the hearts of those who need it. She is an example of dedication, love for life and commitment to others, someone who has known how to balance her personal life with her inexhaustible desire to serve. Each step she takes is a reflection of her passion for improving lives, a mission that has become the driving force of her existence.

Tatiana Rivera - Psych.

Tatiana is a mental health counselor intern in the state of Florida. She was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Clinical track, from the University of Central Florida. Furthermore, she is currently working on her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Central Florida to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the future. Tatiana has experience working with children and adolescents and in Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services. She is passionate about providing a multicultural, interdisciplinary approach in her services while serving the youth. Moreover, Tatiana is involved in researching underrepresented communities, social barriers, systemic issues, and their impact on mental health. She aspires to continue learning more, advocating, and offering support in the field of mental health.

Andrea Talavera Sandoval - Psych.

Andrea was born and raised in Lima, Peru, and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Central Florida. From a young age, she was drawn to understanding people’s emotions and inner worlds especially those who often go unheard. This curiosity and compassion grew into a strong desire to support the emotional well-being of others, particularly older adults and immigrant communities. Her multicultural background deeply influences her approach, having navigated life between countries, Andrea understands the emotional challenges that come with change, identity, and belonging. She believes that even small acts of listening and kindness can make a lasting impact. Her long-term goal is to offer accessible, culturally aware mental health services for those who feel alone in their struggles.