Hi, I’m Lila! I’m a graduate student counseling intern in the Master of Arts in Counseling program at St. Edward’s University. I know that opening up to someone new isn’t always easy, especially for young people who may not know what to expect from therapy or how to put what they’re experiencing into words. One of my biggest priorities is creating a relationship where people feel comfortable being themselves. I bring warmth, curiosity, and a sense of humor into the therapy room, while also making space for the hard, messy, or uncomfortable things that can be difficult to talk about.
I have experience working with children and adolescents in residential treatment, supporting those with trauma histories, emotional and behavioral challenges, and complex mental health needs. I also provide in-person crisis assessment and intervention for children and adults experiencing acute mental health crises.
My experience in residential treatment and crisis intervention has shaped the way I show up as a counselor. I’m comfortable sitting with intense emotions and having difficult conversations, and I strive to remain calm, compassionate, and curious even when things feel overwhelming. I believe that behaviors—especially those that may seem confusing, concerning, or challenging—often make sense when we take the time to understand what someone is experiencing underneath them.
I use a trauma-informed approach to counseling, recognizing that our experiences shape the ways we understand ourselves, relate to others, and respond to the world around us. Rather than focusing only on what someone wants to change, I think it’s equally important to understand how certain patterns developed and what purpose they may have served. I value helping people build practical tools for navigating difficult emotions and situations while also developing a deeper understanding of themselves.
Above all, I want therapy to feel like a place where clients are genuinely heard, respected, and taken seriously. I see counseling as a collaborative process and hope to help people recognize their strengths, feel more confident navigating difficult moments, and create changes that feel meaningful to them.
