Lynn Hakin
Hi, I’m Lynn Hakin. I bring an easygoing, down-to-earth personality paired with an honest, straightforward approach to my therapy practice. A proud double alumna of Lock Haven University, I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Psychology in 2019 and returned to earn my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2023. Since entering the mental health field in 2019, I’ve gained deep, diverse experience—navigating inpatient hospital care, substance abuse treatment centers, and community mental health within a prison setting. This journey has shaped the advocate I am today. Now, in my private practice, I combine that strong clinical background with clear, open communication to help clients navigate their own paths to healing.
First session
During our first session, my priority is for us to get to know each other and comfortably gather background information. I want you to leave with a clear sense of our direction, which is why we will collaboratively establish at least two SMART goals right from the start. I also ensure there is plenty of open space for you to ask questions or share any concerns you might have about therapy.
Strengths
My approach changes depending on who you are and what you need from week to week. Some days, you might just need me to sit back, listen, and hold space. Other days, I will gently push and challenge you to make the changes you want to see. I balance a direct, no-nonsense communication style with deep compassion.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who values open, honest communication especially during challenging times. They are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space where they can speak freely and authentic growth can happen. Ready and willing to embrace change, they approach the therapeutic process with patience and a willingness to try new techniques. While they are motivated and goal-oriented, they also understand that progress is fluid, allowing us to collaboratively adapt and evolve their goals as our sessions move forward.
Origin story
My decision to become a therapist stems from the personal adversity I have faced, as well as the invaluable support I received along the way. Experiencing these challenges firsthand gave me a deep desire to support individuals navigating their own emotional and mental pain. I truly believe that my past struggles, and the resilience I developed through them, have shaped exactly who I am today and fueled my passion for helping others.
Ongoing work together
To track your growth, we will collaborate on SMART goals and use objective tools such as Likert scales and depression inventories—to measure your clinical progress. We will regularly review these goals together to celebrate your achievements, adjust our approach if needed, or introduce new objectives. Your personal insight and self-reporting will be essential in evaluating your journey and ensuring our sessions continue to meet your needs.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), we work to reframe negative thoughts into more realistic, neutral, or positive ones. This shift in thinking naturally helps improve your mood and daily habits. This sometimes involved ongoing homework for the client.
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) draws on your past successes to help resolve current challenges. By exploring what has worked for you before, we can apply those same strengths to your life today. We also use the "Miracle Question" to help you clearly envision your preferred future, creating a practical, step-by-step path to get you there.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing honors the patient as the expert on their own life. By leveraging their existing strengths and self-knowledge, this approach collaborates with the patient to uncover personal insights and develop tailored solutions.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients cultivate nonjudgmental mindfulness and remain present in the moment. DBT supports development in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and effective interpersonal communication. I primarily introduce these concepts as psychoeducation, providing clients with a framework to evaluate their relationships, manage distress, and increase situational awareness.
Location
Virtual sessions