About

About May-Li Pena

May-Li Pena, LMHC
Founder & CEO, MLIP Psychotherapy, Inc.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Psychology Professor | Doctoral Student in Psychology

My journey into the mental health profession began with a deep fascination for the human experience and a desire to better understand the stories, emotions, and inner worlds that shape our lives. While psychology is often viewed through a scientific lens, I have always been drawn to its earliest roots as the study of the soul a reflection of my enduring interest in understanding people not only through their challenges, but through their humanity, resilience, and capacity for growth.

As a Cuban immigrant who has called South Florida home for more than two decades, I deeply value the importance of culture, family, identity, and connection. These experiences have shaped both who I am and how I approach my work, strengthening my commitment to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I hold graduate degrees in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling and continue to advance my professional knowledge through doctoral studies in Psychology. I am also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MLIP Psychotherapy, Inc., a practice built upon the values of compassion, integrity, and personalized care. Alongside my clinical work, I teach Psychology at a university in South Florida, an experience that allows me to contribute to the education and development of future mental health professionals while remaining actively engaged in the evolving field of psychology.

With more than eight years of clinical experience, I have provided individual and group therapy to adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and other emotional challenges. Throughout my career, I have also worked extensively with immigrant children and adolescents, helping them navigate the emotional, cultural, and social adjustments that often accompany acculturation, displacement, and adaptation to a new environment.

I believe that meaningful healing begins when people feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and evidence-based care, while always recognizing the unique story, strengths, values, and life experiences that each person brings to therapy. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, I strive to understand the whole person and create a therapeutic relationship built on trust, authenticity, and compassion.

Whether you are seeking support during a difficult chapter of life, navigating emotional challenges, or simply looking to better understand yourself, my goal is to provide a welcoming and supportive space where healing, self-discovery, and lasting growth can unfold. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they move toward greater emotional well-being, deeper self-understanding, and a more meaningful connection with themselves and others.

At the heart of my work is a simple belief: every person deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness, and genuine care. I consider it a privilege to accompany individuals on their journey toward healing, helping them reconnect with their strengths, discover new possibilities, and create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and aligned with who they truly are.