Tara Lawton
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. This is a space where you can feel safe, supported, and truly heard. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or relationship challenges, we'll work together at your pace to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward the life you want. Healing looks different for everyone — and I'm here to help you find your path.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In the initial session you can expect a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where they can begin sharing what brought them to therapy. We’ll discuss your current concerns, personal history, and what you hope to achieve through counseling. I’ll explain my therapeutic approach, answer any questions you may have, and work with you to establish goals that align with your needs. The first session is about building trust, getting to know each other, and setting the foundation for a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What stands out about my therapeutic approach is the balance of warmth, authenticity, and evidence-based practice I bring to each session. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I’ve developed a deep understanding of how to meet clients where they are and help them create lasting change. I draw from proven approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness-based therapy, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing to create a personalized plan for each client. What makes my work unique is the way I blend compassion with practical, goal-oriented strategies. I focus not only on understanding your story but also on helping you build the skills and confidence needed to move forward. Clients often describe feeling truly heard, supported, and empowered to grow at their own pace. My 25 years of experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions have strengthened my ability to connect deeply and guide clients toward healing, resilience, and meaningful self-discovery.
Anxiety
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Substance Misuse
Anger Management
Coping Skills
Depression
Woman
Alabama
Aetna
Location
Offers in-person in 1313 Alford Ave, Birmingham, AL 35226, Suite 209VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. Together, we work on recognizing negative thinking, developing healthier perspectives, and practicing practical coping skills. CBT is goal-oriented and evidence-based, helping clients make lasting changes and improve overall well-being.
EMDR
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process and heal from traumatic or distressing experiences. EMDR uses guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess difficult memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity. This approach supports clients in finding relief from symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and other emotional challenges, promoting resilience and emotional healing.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I use mindfulness-based therapy to help clients develop greater awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations in the present moment. By incorporating mindfulness techniques such as breathing exercises, grounding, and meditation, clients learn to respond to stress with clarity and calm rather than reactivity. This approach fosters emotional balance, self-compassion, and improved overall well-being.
Trauma Informed Care
I use a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the impact of past experiences on current thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their healing process. This approach emphasizes trust, collaboration, and understanding, helping clients build resilience and regain a sense of control in their lives.
Motivational Interviewing
I use motivational interviewing to help clients explore their own reasons for change and strengthen their motivation to reach personal goals. Through compassionate, nonjudgmental conversation, I support clients in resolving ambivalence, identifying values, and building confidence in their ability to make positive, lasting changes.
1 rating with written reviews
November 13, 2025
It was my first visit. I felt welcomed and Tara was straight with me and available to hear whatever I needed to talk about. She listened well and gently and readily inquired into places where she needed to know more, so that she could understand me better. She knew how to do that, which is amazing because I’ve been to a lot of therapists and have not often had that experience, especially so soon in a therapeutic relationship. I’m grateful.