Lara Ashbaugh , LPC

Lara Ashbaugh is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Missouri with 10 years of experience as a therapist, supervisor, and teacher. She has supported people facing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting challenges, career transitions, ADHD, OCD, and recovery from physical trauma or emotional abuse.

One of her clinical strengths is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which she applies to help people regulate strong emotions, develop practical coping skills, and improve interpersonal functioning. She also blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with elements of positive psychology to notice what is working well and build on those strengths. The LPC credential indicates a professional license to provide counseling services in Missouri.

Her counseling style is warm, interactive, and nonjudgmental. She approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, avoiding stigmatizing labels and tailoring conversations and treatment plans to individual needs. Lara emphasizes client strengths and values, adapting therapeutic methods to fit a person’s goals and life circumstances. Seeking change takes courage, and her work is grounded in practical support aimed at helping people move toward a more fulfilling life.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Lara draws on evidence-informed approaches to tailor online therapy to each person’s needs. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focuses on building emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and relationship skills - it is often used when emotions feel overwhelming or when patterns of conflict interfere with daily life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; it is commonly applied for anxiety, depression, and practical problem solving. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) emphasizes values-based action and mindful acceptance of difficult thoughts and feelings, supporting people who want to pursue meaningful goals even amid ongoing challenges.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process. Lara works collaboratively with clients and licensed professionals to determine which methods fit a person’s goals, preferences, and circumstances, and adapts the plan as needs evolve.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call or phone, and many issues can also be addressed via live chat or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to schedule appointments around work, family, and other commitments, and to maintain continuity of care when life circumstances change.