Lara Parker, Intern
Hi! I’m Lara (she/her), and I am a graduate intern pursuing my Master’s degree in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness at New York University (NYU).
I have always been passionate about understanding the experiences and identities that shape who people become and helping others feel seen, accepted, and supported as they navigate their own journeys. I believe everyone deserves to be met with compassion, curiosity, and without judgment. You are the expert of your own story, and my role is to walk alongside you as you explore your experiences and create meaningful change.
I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults as they navigate identity development, life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, and relationship challenges. I am particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ youth and young adults and creating an affirming space where clients feel safe exploring all parts of who they are. I value culturally responsive care and recognize the importance of understanding how each person’s identity, experiences, and environment shape their mental health and sense of self.
My approach is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, where I prioritize authenticity, collaboration, and building a strong therapeutic relationship. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients better understand emotions, build coping strategies, navigate challenges, and strengthen their relationships. While therapy can involve difficult conversations, I love incorporating humor into sessions and believe that laughter, connection, and authenticity can be important parts of the healing process.
Outside of the therapy room, I’m a huge fan of bully breed dogs, and for reasons I still can’t fully explain, I somehow managed to visit Niagara Falls five times this year alone. I look forward to creating a space where you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are and feel supported as you grow.
I have always been passionate about understanding the experiences and identities that shape who people become and helping others feel seen, accepted, and supported as they navigate their own journeys. I believe everyone deserves to be met with compassion, curiosity, and without judgment. You are the expert of your own story, and my role is to walk alongside you as you explore your experiences and create meaningful change.
I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults as they navigate identity development, life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, and relationship challenges. I am particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ youth and young adults and creating an affirming space where clients feel safe exploring all parts of who they are. I value culturally responsive care and recognize the importance of understanding how each person’s identity, experiences, and environment shape their mental health and sense of self.
My approach is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, where I prioritize authenticity, collaboration, and building a strong therapeutic relationship. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients better understand emotions, build coping strategies, navigate challenges, and strengthen their relationships. While therapy can involve difficult conversations, I love incorporating humor into sessions and believe that laughter, connection, and authenticity can be important parts of the healing process.
Outside of the therapy room, I’m a huge fan of bully breed dogs, and for reasons I still can’t fully explain, I somehow managed to visit Niagara Falls five times this year alone. I look forward to creating a space where you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are and feel supported as you grow.
