About Us
Creating New Beginnings
New Leaf Counseling & Development is dedicated to helping youth, individuals, and families overcome challenges, build resilience, and create brighter futures. Through compassionate support, evidence-based programs, and meaningful partnerships, we empower people to embrace growth, accountability, and lasting positive change.
New Leaf Youth Initiative
New Leaf Youth Initiative is a community-based organization dedicated to supporting school-age children, adolescents, and families through structured, evidence-based services that promote accountability, healing, and long-term success. Our goal is to not only redirect behavior, but to equip youth with the confidence, structure, and support needed to pursue education, employment, and positive community involvement.
Who We Are
Values That Shape Us
Our Mission
New Leaf is committed to supporting individuals and families through programs that promote healing, personal growth, and long-term change.
Our Vision
To see individuals and families turn challenging chapters into new beginnings by choosing purpose over excuses, building resilience, and embracing futures defined by responsibility, growth, and hope.
Our Approach
We combine structured support, accountability, and evidence-based care to guide meaningful and lasting transformation.
Meet Our Team
Leadership & Clinical Expertise
Elijah Daniel, LPC
Founder & Licensed Professional Counselor
Elijah Daniel, LPC is the founder of New Leaf Counseling & Development and a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with at-risk youth and families. He is committed to helping individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.
His clinical background includes residential, community, and outpatient work, including service on the campus of Mt. Meigs through programming contracted by Auburn University’s ABSOPP Program, where he supported youth experiencing trauma and problematic sexual behaviors (PSB).
He also provides services connected to the Youth Services Institute at the University of Alabama and has experience in diversion programming recognized by the Alabama Department of Youth Services.
Roneika Martin
National Certified Counselor (NCC) | Mental Health Advocate
Roneika Martin is a dedicated National Certified Counselor (NCC), educator, and mental health advocate passionate about supporting the emotional, social, and personal growth of children, families, and women.
She is currently working toward full licensure as a professional counselor while continuing to provide compassionate, person-centered support focused on emotional wellness and personal development.
With a background in school counseling and mental health advocacy, Roneika is committed to creating safe, empowering spaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and encouraged to thrive. Her work emphasizes emotional well-being, confidence-building, and meaningful community connection.
Yumeka McKinney, MS, LBSW
Licensed Social Worker | Mental Health Professional
Yumeka McKinney, MS, LBSW is a licensed bachelor social worker who integrates her master’s degree in counseling to support individuals and families in overcoming life challenges. With over 30 years of experience working with at-risk populations, she brings deep knowledge and compassion to her work in mental health and family support services.
Throughout her career, she has provided counseling and support to individuals, families, and groups, helping them navigate emotional, behavioral, and life transitions with care and professionalism.
Yumeka earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Auburn University and a Master’s degree in Personal Counseling from Troy University Montgomery.
“Change is a process, and we walk it with you every step of the way.”