I am a licensed counselor in Kentucky with professional experience supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. My clinical background includes working with clients across a broad age range—from adolescents to older adults—and from diverse cultural backgrounds. I specialize in helping people navigate the emotional impact of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, and abuse.
In addition to my counseling experience, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my military service, where I encountered a wide array of high-pressure situations that demanded resilience, strategic problem-solving, and effective stress management. These experiences have deepened my understanding of human strength and adaptability, and they inform my therapeutic approach today.
I believe that healing begins with connection. Life’s difficulties and traumatic experiences can leave us feeling isolated and misunderstood—but you don’t have to face them alone. My role is to walk beside you, helping you identify the barriers that stand in the way of growth and guiding you toward a future that feels more aligned with your values and aspirations.
You are the expert of your own story. I honor the strengths you already possess and will work collaboratively with you to build on them. Seeking support is a courageous act, and I’m here to empower you as you take meaningful steps toward greater fulfillment, clarity, and peace.
Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Grief, Anger management, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes, ADHD, Veteran and Armed Forces Issues, Post-traumatic stress
KY LPCC 278442
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Joe Lara. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Joe is da bomb diggity! Hands down the best therapist I have ever had. He is truly a blessing to my life.
Written on Dec 04, 2024 after therapy with Joe for 5 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
Very good therapist
Written on Jul 01, 2024 after therapy with Joe for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, sleeping disorders, and coping with life changes
Joe is great and I look forward to continuing my journey with him.
Written on Jun 05, 2024 after therapy with Joe for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, bipolar disorder, compassion fatigue, and adhd
Joe has been my therapist for quite a while and has been exactly what I've needed as I pursue healing; someone who listens. He understands betrayal trauma and childhood abuse trauma, and has been a significant part of my positive development as I overcome my triggers and associated behavior patterns. His therapy style is gentle, allowing me to process my past at my own speed. Definitely recommend him for anyone who needs someone who can fearlessly listen as you unpack uncomfortable stories, support you as you walk through those memories, and help guide you to understanding how to create new behavior patterns so you can break destructive patterns.
Written on Mar 08, 2024 after therapy with Joe for 7 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and anger management
Joe is easy to talk to, I feel like I’m just talking to a friend. He shares some experiences he has had as well, which I find helpful; for one it shows he’s human too, and secondly it gives another perspective on how to possibly handle the situation. I’ve recommended Joe to 3 people already. He’s great!
Written on May 15, 2023 after therapy with Joe for 1 month on issues concerning stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, self esteem, and adhd
Best therapist in the world, Joe helped me through a really difficult time in my life. Highly recommend this man!
Written on Mar 23, 2023 after therapy with Joe for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and career difficulties
