Q and A with Lara

What is important for potential clients to know about you?

I am deeply passionate about supporting people through their struggles in every phase of life—whether it’s a breakup, recovery from past trauma, academic difficulties, career change, marriage, motherhood, or another transformative phase. Whatever you're going through, it is an opportunity for growth and inner transformation. My approach is both personalized and grounded in clinical expertise, drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic techniques to meet you exactly where you are.

While I recognize the depth and seriousness of therapy, I also value the healing power of shared laughter. Together, we can create a safe, non-judgmental space to reflect on your past, navigate your present, and plan for a fulfilling future.

What is your approach to therapy?

During our first few sessions, we’ll focus on getting to know each other, exploring your background and life goals. Building rapport involves creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where trust can develop. The process is collaborative, ensuring you are involved and supported throughout.

Clients can expect to walk away from sessions with a deeper understanding of themselves, further clarity, feelings of connectedness and affirmation. They will gain insights into their experiences and develop skills to navigate their life transitions. I assess readiness for discharge by evaluating your progress towards goals and overall well-being, ensuring you feel confident and prepared for the next steps.

How will you help me?

I help my clients gain deeper self-understanding, find clarity, and develop practical skills to navigate life's challenges. I tailor my methods to each individual, meeting you exactly where you are in your journey. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for exploration and growth, focusing on what works best for you.

My clients often find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to be very helpful. CBT explores how negative thoughts and cognitive distortions affect your emotions and experiences. This approach helps clients to learn how to identify and re-frame negative core beliefs. Once they are identified they can be replaced with more positive beliefs, which improves the individuals mood and outlook on life. I also have been trained in TF-CBT which is a specialized form of CBT that helps individuals recover from disturbing or traumatic events.

I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which focuses on mindfulness and developing emotional regulation skills. DBT teaches clients strategies that help them manage strong feelings and develop healthier responses to their emotional triggers.

Why did you become a therapist?

My path to becoming a therapist stemmed from my deep passion for connecting with people and helping them through difficult times. As an empathetic and compassionate person I thrived in my previous career, where I supported women during life transitions. However, I felt a strong pull to make a more meaningful impact, which led me to pursue a career in therapy where I could help those struggling to cope with a variety of struggles.

What is your educational background?

I hold a Master in Social Work from Sacred Heart University. This education has equipped me with a strong clinical foundation, which I apply in my work with various populations, including the LGBTQ community and individuals dealing with academic and career difficulties, depression, unresolved trauma, and anxiety. I am committed to continuously developing my skills and I take 15 hours of additional training each year.

What insurance do you take?

I am in network with Husky and will soon be in network with Cigna and Aetna.

What else should I know about you?

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time in nature, being with close friends, finding inspiration for travel, and reading self-help or memoir books. The last book I read was Lucky Me by Sachi Parker (Shirley MacLaine's daughter). I also enjoy painting, although I’m not an artist by any means. I have had a diverse professional history, all of which have led me to where I am today. One of my favorite sayings is, "What is meant for you will not pass you by," which reflects my optimistic approach to life's ups and downs.