Hello there, I'm Liz! I work with clients who are wanting to heal from past trauma experiences and get to the root causes of their struggles. Trauma changes the way you view yourself, others, and the world. It often has lasting impacts that can be manifested in your current struggles with anxiety, depression, true fulfillment in relationships, diminished executive functioning, and difficulty with honoring your needs and boundaries. My goal is to help you gain insight, build self-awareness, and foster personal growth. Some areas of focus I enjoy addressing with my clients include boundary building, negative core beliefs, strengthening internal validation, self-care, identifying trauma responses, addressing attachment wounds, aligning to your values, improving daily functioning, and developing healthy coping strategies. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic models and techniques to help my clients including but not limited to Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. For those who desire and request it, I can integrate Christian-based counseling into the therapeutic process. I believe education/knowledge of what you are going through sets the foundation to the therapeutic work you will be doing.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we will conduct an intake assessment to gather key information about your background, concerns, and therapy goals. My aim is to create a safe and comfortable environment while offering a case conceptualization. I will listen to your perspective, share mine, and discuss how we’ll approach treatment together. This process will lay the foundation for your personalized treatment plan, outlining the path for your therapeutic journey.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I always say my greatest strength is the wisdom and knowledge I've learned through life experience and through my faith. I also take continuous training that will help strengthen my clinical skills as a therapist.
About Elizabeth Lara
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Serves ages
Accepts cash
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
EMDR
EMDR is a structured and effective approach to processing traumatic memories while reducing the emotional charge associated with them. During sessions, I guide clients through the eight-phase process, encouraging them to explore thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations related to targeted memories while incorporating bilateral stimulation. This unique therapeutic method facilitates the brain's natural ability to reprocess information, leading to a more adaptive understanding of past experiences. The collaborative nature of EMDR allows clients to progress at their own pace, ensuring a client-centered and empathetic approach. Through EMDR therapy, I've witnessed significant positive transformations in clients, empowering them to overcome the lingering impact of trauma and fostering a path towards emotional healing and resilience.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I embrace Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a dynamic and experiential approach to help clients cultivate psychological flexibility and enhance their overall well-being. ACT emphasizes acceptance of one's thoughts and emotions while encouraging individuals to commit to actions aligned with their core values. I guide clients in identifying and clarifying their values, and together, we work towards creating committed actions that align with these values. The mindfulness and acceptance techniques within ACT empower clients to navigate life's challenges more effectively, fostering a profound sense of purpose and resilience.
Christian Counseling
Upon request, I can integrate Christian Counseling principles to provide a faith-based framework for individuals seeking support. Grounded in Christian values and beliefs, this approach incorporates scripture, prayer, and spiritual guidance to address emotional and relational challenges. I collaborate with clients to explore the intersection of their faith and mental health, fostering a deeper understanding of their spiritual journey. Christian Counseling in my practice emphasizes compassion, forgiveness, and the transformative power of faith in navigating life's complexities.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, goal-oriented approach that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. By examining the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions, CBT helps you develop healthier patterns of thinking and coping strategies. This approach is effective in managing anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional challenges. Through CBT, you will learn to recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, gain a deeper understanding of your emotional responses, and develop practical skills to improve your mental well-being. The goal is to empower you to make lasting, positive changes in your life by taking an active role in your own healing process.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
In person-centered therapy, I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. This approach emphasizes empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard, helping you gain insight, build self-awareness, and foster personal growth. By focusing on your unique perspective, we work together to navigate challenges, deepen your self-understanding, and empower you to make meaningful changes in your life.