Self-Esteem, Life Changes/Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety

Meet Lara, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), with a Masters of Arts in Counseling from National-Louis University, who brings over 10 years of experience to Counseling Works. Clients she sees range in age from 14 to 50 years old. She provides a soft space and the wisdom to assist adolescents, young adults and parents who need the extra support from the overwhelm that can occur in the daily challenges of life. Areas of specialization include anxiety, athletes, body image issues, interpersonal issues, life changes/adjustment disorders, parenting issues, self-esteem and self-worth.

Lara’s greatest strength lies in providing a safe, non-judgmental space to allow clients to recognize, explore and understand the underlying patterns and insecurities that no longer serve them. Through understanding that many clients’ family patterns and social expectations are often contributing factors to the challenges that they face; she works to help clients find their strengths and get in touch with their innate wisdom to improve their lives. She strongly believes that all individuals are capable of great things, even if they have been obscured or limited through adverse experiences, anxiety, poor self-esteem or unhealthy patterns. With this in mind, Lara teaches practical tools to soften judgment and allow her clients the space to attempt new behaviors.

Lara does not believe in a one size fits all approach to therapy. In meeting the client where they are at, she allows the client to take the lead. You will feel comfortable being yourself when you are in therapy with Lara.  Her non-judgemental, humorous, down-to-earth nature, will make you feel at ease immediately.

Her therapeutic style is rooted in Person-Centered Therapy, Attachment Theory and Motivational Interviewing. In addition, a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy strategies, and Solution-Focused approaches round out her therapeutic toolbox. Lara works out of our Frankfort and Lemont offices and would love to meet you and help you along your journey.