Credentials and Training
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (New York, Florida)
Completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Postdoctoral Training Program in Health Service Psychology, Focus- Diversity and Cultural Experiences, Stony Brook University (Stony Brook, NY)
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, Chestnut Hill College (Philadelphia, PA), Dissertation- Exploring the Relationship between Mindfulness and Psychodynamic Theory: Defensive Functioning and Reflective Functioning
M.S. in Clinical and Counseling Psychology, Chestnut Hill College (Philadelphia, PA)
Clinical Settings: private practice (DiCarlo Psychological Services, PLLC), university/college counseling (Haverford College, Stony Brook University), community mental health (NHS Human Services), inpatient/IOP/outpatient substance use programs (Livengrin Foundation, NHS Human Services), residential and school treatment facilities (Bensalem School District, Woods Services), adjunct faculty/research (Chestnut Hill College, Holy Family University, Temple University)
Clinical Experiences: psychotherapy- individuals/groups/couples/families, interdisciplinary consultation, crisis intervention, psychological/psychoeducational assessments, supervisor- individual and group therapy for graduate psychology students and medical providers, research- pregnancy loss, adjunct faculty- undergraduate and graduate psychology courses
Dr. Lara’s View of the Therapeutic Relationship and Process
I believe that everyone deserves individualized and research-based treatment. We can work together to establish a non-judgmental relationship of trust and safety. I am able to create an inviting space for you to talk freely about anything and everything on your mind. I will use myself to hear, see, feel, and bear witness to your experiences. My approach is always trauma-informed, culturally-informed, and relational. I am also able to integrate behavioral techniques (ACT/CBT/DBT/mindfulness) when they will be beneficial.
Psychotherapy is a space for you to talk about the good and bad experiences and everything in-between. Your symptoms are only a small aspect of you, as your experiences are much more complex. We will work to reduce emotional distress and find new ways forward. Together, we can deeply understand you by examining how the past influences the present. I will guide you to safely look at your emotions, thoughts, recurring patterns, and your relationship to yourself and others. My role is to help you to engage in a process to explore all aspects of you with you.
The therapeutic relationship and process can allow you to live in more meaningful and authentic ways. I have extensive advanced training that allows me to engage with every client in a unique way, meeting them where they need me to be. This type of therapy allows for long-lasting change and improvement even after the treatment ends.