Lauren Leal (She/Her/Hers)
LPC-Associate
Beginning therapy is a significant and courageous step. The healing process is often complex and can bring up feelings of fear or isolation, but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. As an LPC Associate under the supervision of Jennifer Buffalo, LPC-S, LMFT-S, my role is to accompany you as you explore your genuine self and move toward the growth you seek. I strive to offer both a supportive presence and practical tools to help ease the path, no matter what challenges arise along the way. I am committed to walking with you—meeting you wherever you are, and providing the level of support you need.
I bring my own lived experiences to my work. I am a fifth-generation Mexican-American who grew up in South Texas in a blended family, spent 13 years playing soccer, and was diagnosed with ADHD as a child. Each of these pieces of my story has shaped my worldview. Having access to an early diagnosis helped me better understand my own neurodivergent brain, and this perspective enriches my connection with clients, particularly those facing similar neurodivergent journeys in their careers, education, or personal lives.
My approach to therapy is grounded in authenticity and empathy, guided by the belief that everyone can work toward lasting change, even when life feels overwhelming. I am attentive to patterns and underlying motivations, and I enjoy supporting clients in deep self-exploration and insight. Creating a safe, affirmative, and nonjudgmental therapeutic space is always my highest priority so that we can examine the past and present with openness and curiosity together.
Specializations
- Anxiety Disorders
- Child and Adolescent Therapy
- Depression and Mood Disorders
- Life Transitions and Adjustments
- People Pleasing
- Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence
Populations of Interest
- Adolescents
- Adults
- LGBTQ+ Individuals
- Multicultural/Minority Populations
- Women
- Individuals with Disabilities
- Individuals with Identity Issues (e.g., racial, ethnic, religious, sexual)
Fees
Individual 50-minute session: $90-$120
*Parent conferences may be required when working with adolescents and are billed at the same rate as your child's therapy.
*Deeper sliding scale availability- Please inquire further
Delivery Method of Services and Languages Spoken
I offer in-person sessions and sessions virtually in English
Favorite Quote, Movie, Book, or TV Show
My favorite movies (no particular order) are Mr. Nobody, Demolition, Mulan, Interstellar, Brother Bear, Vanilla Sky, Love & Basketball, Time Traveler’s Wife, Lilo & Stitch, and Selena.
A Word from your Therapist
Show up as you are, as will I.
In this space that we create, I hope you can feel comfortable, curious, and seen.
Personal Identities
I was diagnosed with ADHD in the 5th grade. I struggled with anxiety and depression heavily in high school. I grew up in a blended family. I am a 5-generation Mexican-American. I grew up Roman Catholic, but identify as agnostic now
Educational and Work Background
Texas Tech University, B.A Psychology
St.Edward’s University, M.A. Counseling
Hobbies or Personal Interests
I run every morning and play soccer and basketball. I enjoy keeping up with sports, discovering new music, playing with my cat, cooking, and going home to the beach.
Why Did you Become a Therapist?
I became a therapist due to my own struggles with mental health as a teenager and deep curiosity about myself and others around me. I also became inspired by one of my therapists, who truly made me feel seen and heard. I would like to pass that feeling on to others.
Make An Appointment
Fill out our form today for a free 30-minute face-to-face consultation from any of our therapists!
Call us at 512-657-7744 for more information.