Lara DeSanto

Hi, I'm Lara! I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered art therapist. I’m passionate about empowering clients to explore their own stories to build self-understanding, cope with life's challenges, and grow. I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore your struggles, relationships, and goals at your own pace. I use a creative, attachment-focused approach to increase self-awareness and personal agency, all through the lens of trauma-informed care. I have 6 years of experience working in school-based and community mental health settings, and I am most passionate about working with young adults and adolescents struggling with unhealthy relationships, past relational trauma, and identity exploration. As a trained art therapist, I also enjoy working with clients who are open to using the creative process, such as through art-making or journaling, to explore their stories, increase insight, and cope with difficult emotions. Additionally, I am trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1) and would enjoy helping couples reconnect or establish healthy foundations, arming you with tools to build intimacy and promote healthier conflict resolution.

I believe that you are the author of your own story. My approach in therapy is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where we go at your pace. I use a creative, attachment-focused, and trauma-informed approach to empower you and help you learn more about yourself and your goals. I frequently draw from evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and more to help you reach your goals, and I love incorporating creativity (such as art-making or journaling) and humor into our work when it is appropriate and welcomed.

During our first session, I'll begin learning about what brings you to therapy, what you hope to explore or work toward in this space, and your unique strengths. I'll focus on building a sense of safety and trust by going at your pace and creating an open, nonjudgmental environment. My hope is to give you a space where you can begin to share your story and be seen as your authentic self.