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 every individual deserves personalized, research-based treatment within a safe and trusting therapeutic space. I am skilled at creating a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can speak openly about whatever is on your mind. I will use myself to hear, see, feel, and bear witness to your experiences. My approach is always trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive, and relational. I also draw from behavioral modalities, such as ACT, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, when these techniques are clinically appropriate and supportive of your goals.
Psychotherapy is a space to explore the full range of your experiences, positive, painful, and everything in between. While symptoms may bring you to therapy, they are only one part of a much more complex story. Together, we will work to reduce emotional distress, gain insight into the influence of past experiences on present life, and uncover new paths forward. I will support you in examining your emotions, thought patterns, behaviors, and relationships with yourself and others with compassion and depth.
The therapeutic relationship can offer a powerful opportunity to live more authentically and meaningfully. I bring advanced, specialized training to meet each client where they are, adapting to their unique needs and experiences. This kind of work fosters sustainable growth and long-lasting change, often continuing well beyond the conclusion of treatment.