Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC
Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC knows what it feels like to juggle all the roles - professional, parent, partner - while still wondering if you’re doing enough. That’s why for more than 20 years she’s made it her mission to help moms, children, and professionals step out of survival mode, quiet the chaos, and feel more present in the lives they’ve worked so hard to build.
As a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, Speaker, Mom Coach, and Host of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa has supported thousands of families blending mindful living, mental health, and personal growth into her signature Mindful Living Framework. Her work has been featured on the Today Show, Univision, and national publications - showing audiences everywhere that peace and presence are possible, even in the busiest seasons of life.
After nearly two decades as a public school educator, Vanessa founded Free to Be Mindful, a private practice located in Ridgefield, NJ specializing in helping kids and teens reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and build confidence.
As a first-generation professional, she is committed to creating pathways for Latinos in mental health through various roles. Vanessa served on the LMHANJ Executive Board as Early Career Professional then President-Elect, President and President Emeritus between 2020-2025. Vanessa is also a Co-Founder of the Latinx Practice Collective, a coaching and community membership empowering Latino private practice therapists to become CEOs. The Collective powers the Connect Therapy Directory, a directory exclusively of Latino clinicians.
Her passion for moms shines through Amiga Moms™, a coaching and community platform with emphasis on culture, helping high-achieving moms move beyond overwhelm, reconnect with themselves, and bring more joy into everyday life.
At home, Vanessa is a first-generation eldest daughter of hardworking Dominican parents, wife to a supportive husband, and mom of two and goldendoodle therapy dog. Her version of mindful living looks like yoga, salsa dancing, and Peloton rides... without hours of meditation.
Vanessa’s story is a reminder that we don’t have to do it all to have it all. With the right tools and support, we can find more calm, more clarity, and actually enjoy the everyday moments that matter most.
