Licensed to practice in Arizona and accepts 10 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Couples Counseling
Brenda Lara-Smith
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been in the mental health field since 2014. Throughout my journey in this field, I realized that utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches is necessary to ensure an individual's success in reaching their goals. When providing counseling, guidance and education to the individuals I serve, I believe it is essential to be empathetic, respectful, culturally aware and to always acknowledge an individual's preferences when it comes to their treatment. I am family oriented and recognize the importance of having a support system to rely on. Being part of an individual's healing and success is a privilege and has always brought me self fulfillment.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
I offer therapy sessions online via telehealth from the comfort of your home. During the first session we will discuss treatment goals and a pla to meet those goals.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
When providing counseling, guidance and education to the individuals I serve, I believe it is essential to be empathetic, respectful, culturally aware and to always acknowledge an individual's preferences when it comes to their treatment. Being part of an individual's healing and success is a privilege and has always brought me self fulfillment.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I specialize in individual's of all genders and ages struggling with depression, anxiety, self esteem and traumas. I also work with couples learn how to navigate differences and effective communication. I provide a judgment free zone where an individual can feel safe and comfortable being open and honest about everything. I encourage individual's to get out of their comfort zone and seek their full potential by supporting them throughout their personal journey.
Specialties
Top specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
I identify as
Hispanic / Latinx
Woman
Serves ages
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Teenagers (13 to 17)
Licensed in
Arizona
Accepts
Arlo
Cash - $130 per session
Centivo
Cigna
Cigna - HealthEZ
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
Evernorth
GTEB
Tufts Health/Cigna
Location
Virtual
My treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
By utilizing CBT I am able to help clients identifying and reframing negative thinking patterns. During their session, clients will learn to modify behaviors and manage distressing emotions effectively theoughout their treatment.
Couples Counseling
In my practice, I guide couples through a structured, collaborative process where both partners learn to express needs directly, de-escalate conflicts, and actively understand each other’s perspectives.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I serve as a collaborative, compassionate facilitator to help you unlock your inner capacity for growth and healing.
1 rating with written reviews
June 12, 2026
I really appreciate her kindness but also her ability to structure our conversations to keep moving forward. She is great at being goal oriented and her determination to follow up with goals we establish. I appreciate her explaining "why" I am feeling or behaving in certain ways, so I can understand myself more. It helps me feel validated. I am glad I am taking this time for me and grateful to find someone who is willing to walk along with me on this journey that isn't always easy.