Linda

Hello, my name is Linda Lara, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Southern California. I am a second-generation Mexican-American. I became a therapist because the inner-city I grew up in influenced me to help those who could not help themselves due to systemic barriers. Many individuals in East Los Angeles feel they do not have a voice, and I became passionate about helping people in my community with their confidence to speak up for themselves- in relationships, family, work, school, community, law, children's services, foster care, probation, and many other systems. 

 

I particularly developed an interest in mental health because everything I was learning in school helped me make sense of my personal life and this helped strengthen my self-awareness and perception of human behavior. I discovered that my purpose in this world is to spread the knowledge I have received to help heal broken hearts, broken homes, and help end the stigma towards mental illness. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, anger issues, stress, and domestic violence.

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One of the most important things to work on in therapy is finding the root of the problem, where everything is steaming from. Sitting together, we will discover the root of what is causing an imbalance in your life. We will safely uncover masked emotions, explore your attachment style, any trauma you may have experienced and possible destructive behavioral patterns. Your current situation may be causing you to have high stress, sleepless nights, difficulty focusing, worrying all the time, feeling hopeless for change and suicidal ideation. You may also be coming home wanting to punch walls, scream, cry, and isolate because no one seems to understand. I get it, I’ve been there. The sadness, self-doubt, and insecurities are too overwhelming sometimes. 

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It's time to get up and make a change. Let me guide you to find the light in times of darkness. There's a reason why life sent you here to read this. I'm here to help you dig deep into your roots and help make sense of your life. This can lead you to feeling at peace, having an increase in your self-esteem, and being able to manage your emotions by developing new healthy ways to cope with life when shit hits the fan.

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I utilize an integrated approach- including the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual self. The traditional psychotherapy modalities I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Psychodynamic Therapy. For trauma, I utilize Brainspotting which focuses on the parts of the brain where your memories and emotions are stored.

 

I tailor treatment interventions based on individual needs because everyone's story and response to trauma is different. My approach is client-centered with a gentle push for accountability. I dedicate my time into personal and professional development to continuously work on being the best version of myself. I promote self-care, self-advocacy, and self-determination.