Exceptional. Dedicated. Compassionate.

These three words perfectly describe the 2025 Counselor Education Alum of the Year, Maria Aladjova. As a committed counselor and educator, Maria is determined to make a lasting impact on her clients as the assistant clinical director at Next Chapter Therapy and a mentor to UNLV students. 

Since earning her M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019, Maria has served the Southern Nevada community and contributed to the clinical mental health counseling field in various capacities. From working as a part-time instructor at UNLV to being one of the college’s alumni chapter’s mentors, holding multiple leadership positions throughout her career, and volunteering with agencies like the Las Vegas Rescue Mission, Maria finds purpose in inspiring and uplifting others. 

“What sets Maria apart is that she’s not only a skilled counselor but a role model who demonstrates what it means to lead with integrity and compassion,” said her colleague, Stefany Flores Martinez, who also nominated her.  

Maria describes herself as “a servant leader with a demonstrated ability to set and reach goals.”  This description is apt as she has decided to return to UNLV and earn a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision, as one of the five students in the inaugural cohort. This lofty goal reaffirms her commitment to creating impact through service. 

For her, it feels surreal yet fulfilling to know that she’s making a difference in her field and the lives of others. 

“In my experience, making a difference doesn’t always come with fireworks. It requires a lot of effort, and to hear that those efforts have had a lasting impact is so rewarding. It fuels my passion to continue evolving, learning, and serving others with integrity and empathy.”

Maria advises counselor education students to trust the process.  “Trust that each experience, every challenge, every class, and every client interaction is shaping us into a more effective and compassionate counselor.”

We are delighted to celebrate Maria and her exemplary work as a counselor, mentor, and educator.