Lucy M. Dergarabedian, Registered Intern Mental Health Counselor
As an intern mental health counselor, I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals and families navigating seasons of difficulty, transition, and uncertainty. My clinical experiences have primarily involved supporting children and families facing emotional, relational, and behavioral challenges. These encounters have deepened my appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit and reinforced the importance of a safe, compassionate therapeutic relationship.
My work is grounded in the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has proven to be a powerful tool in helping clients reframe unhelpful thought patterns, regulate overwhelming emotions, and develop more adaptive responses to stress. I have found that CBT offers both structure and flexibility, allowing clients to actively participate in the healing process through guided insight and practice. This approach has been particularly beneficial for families struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma-related responses.
When working with children, I have integrated creative and expressive modalities—such as art, music, storytelling, and play—to help them find a voice for feelings they may not yet have the words to express. These tools have been especially effective in building trust, encouraging exploration, and accessing emotions that lie beneath the surface. Whether through a drawing, a role-play scenario, or a favorite song, children often reveal complex inner experiences that might otherwise remain hidden.
Respecting and honoring cultural background has been a central value in my counseling work. As someone fluent in Armenian, Arabic, and English, I have been able to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds in a more personal and meaningful way. These language skills have allowed me to listen not only to words but to the cultural rhythms and unspoken emotions behind them. I have found that culture shapes how families interpret their struggles and define healing. By approaching each family system with curiosity and cultural humility, I strive to create a space where diverse beliefs, traditions, and values are seen as strengths rather than obstacles.
As I continue to grow in my clinical practice, I remain committed to learning, listening, and collaborating with clients as they pursue healing and transformation. I believe that counseling is a sacred partnership—one that empowers individuals and families to rewrite their stories, reclaim their strengths, and move forward with hope. I am honored to be part of that process and look forward to continuing this meaningful work.
