Adriana Lara

Welcome, my name is Adriana. I am here to help you as you take the first step towards healing and relief. Helping others has been my passion for as long as I can remember. Everyone deserves to be heard no matter their situation. We all need some guidance from and support from time to time. I hope to work together to help you in your journey. I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience as a counselor. I have been in the field for about 6 years. I graduated with a Masters of Science degree from the University of Vermont in 2014. In my time there I worked with teens and young adults with substance use and/or mental health difficulties. My program focused on teaching us the skills we would need to provide effective therapy while also being mindful of diversity. Diversity not only focused on race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, and sexual orientation, but the diverse experiences each individual has in their own life. I learned to try and understand a person holistically to better understand how their experience influences their life in all facets. In the last 6 years I have worked with children, teens, families, and adults in rural and urban communities. I have worked with individuals presenting with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. My style as a counselor is eclectic. What I focus on first is building a strong rapport. Getting to know you to build trust is essential in creating a space that allows you to be vulnerable. It can difficult to open up to a stranger so I take the time to build that trust. My approach is mostly focused in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT allows one to look at how their thought patterns impact what they feel and do. Identifying negative thoughts and replacing them with positive, more realistic thoughts can help change your perspective on a situation thus allowing for positive change. I try to integrate ecological theory, narrative therapy, and solution focused therapy when appropriate. I am excited to take the next step in this journey with you. I look forward to working together to find the relief and healing you are looking for.