We're passionate about
creating the life you desire.
Lara Garwood-Martin, MA, LCPC, EMDR
You know that feeling of “not good enough” that distracts you and makes you feel small? Or the feeling that something isn’t quite right, or do you just not feel good or satisfied in your relationships or your life journey? Are feelings of anxiety or depression keeping you from enjoying your life?
I know I do. I think we all do from time to time.
But sometimes, you can’t shake these feelings. This persistent feeling comes from trying to be someone you’re not. Constantly striving to be perfect or to fit into everyone else’s expectations depletes you and makes you forget who
you really are. When you come to therapy, you get to drop the pretensions. You get to be vulnerable and explore the fears and tough feelings that you worry you can’t reveal to the people you love. As you get more comfortable talking to me about and discovering your real wants and needs, you build the skills that will enable you to show yourself to your family, friends, and colleagues and make decisions that help you create the life you want.
Who I really am as a therapist
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor operating in Schaumburg, IL and I have a dynamic, eclectic approach to psychotherapy. To that end, I also offer EMDR to assist you in your journey. I am always learning and looking for alternative ways to help my clients. Your story, your pain, and your collection of struggles are unique to you. There is no one-size fits all approach to therapy.
I see it as my role to listen and watch and meet you where you are. I create a safe, confidential, peaceful space where you can drop the mask and begin to reveal and heal your true self.
Your stories, your needs, your darkest hours, and your brightest moments take center stage when you’re in my office. I bring respect, kindness, and a sense of fun so that you feel empowered to make changes in your life.
A few more details about me:
I graduated from Concordia University of Chicago with a Master’s in Counseling. I specialize in treating people with relationship issues, depression, adjustment issues, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic attacks, and social phobia. I am a certified educational counselor with a passion for helping others discover their ideal educational experience, career and lifestyle. I have been a youth soccer coach and a mentor for high school and college students. I am a work in progress and have personal and professional experience with the techniques I ask you to engage in, whether it be mindfulness, self-compassion, cognitive restructuring, etc. I’m looking forward to working with you.
Help is here.
Bring your ideas to life.
Do you have dreams and ideas that you struggle to bring to fruition? Therapy can help you overcome the mental blocks and self-doubt that hinder your creativity. Through personalized sessions, we'll work together to identify and remove obstacles, enhance your focus, and ignite your passion. Let's turn your visions into reality and unlock your full creative potential.
Confidence is key to achieving your goals and leading a fulfilling life. If you often find yourself held back by self-doubt and fear, therapy can provide the tools you need to build a stronger sense of self-worth. Through supportive and empowering techniques, we'll help you develop resilience, assertiveness, and a positive self-image. Step into your true self and embrace life with confidence.
Build your confidence.
Every individual has untapped potential waiting to be discovered. Therapy offers a pathway to explore and expand your abilities, breaking free from limiting beliefs and self-imposed barriers. Together, we will delve into your strengths and uncover new opportunities for growth. Whether it's in your personal life, career, or relationships, let's work to elevate your capabilities and achieve greater success.
