Kevin Lazaro, LMHCA

Kevin Lazaro Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

Life rarely unfolds in the way we expect. Many people come to therapy after reaching a point where the things that once helped them get by no longer seem to work. Some feel overwhelmed by anxiety or depression. Others feel disconnected from themselves, stuck in unhealthy patterns, struggling in relationships, or questioning the direction of their lives. Sometimes there is a clear problem to address, and sometimes there is a persistent feeling that something is missing.

Whatever it is you are coming in with, I believe it takes a great deal of courage to honestly examine your life. It is not easy to confront painful emotions, long-standing habits, difficult relationships, or unanswered questions about who you are and who you want to become. These are the opportunities I see for growth, self-discovery, and meaningful change.

As a counselor, I strive to create a space where clients can speak openly, explore their experiences without judgement, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. My role is to walk alongside clients, helping them identify what matters most, recognize what obstacles may be keeping them stuck, and develop skills needed to move forward.

My approach is influenced by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am interested in helping clients develop greater psychological flexibility. This is the ability to face life’s challenges while remaining connected to their values and goals. “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how” – Friedirich Nietzsche

After being born and raised in a small island known as Saipan (close to the deepest part of the ocean, the Marianas Trench) I lived in New York for a brief period of time before calling the PNW my home. Outside of counseling, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, cooking, writing jokes, trading card games, strength training and watching both my Seahawks and Knicks. I’ve recently started learning about interior design.

Specialties and Areas of Focus

Depression
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Identity Development
Self-esteem Issues
Relationship Issues
Cultural Identity
Young Adults
Men’s Issues

Q&A

Q. Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?

While both are significant, I think addressing your immediate problem is more important. Something is happening in your life that is bringing you in. Let’s explore that. Then afterwards, we can explore the larger patterns that are possibly contributing to that concern.

Q. Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?

Therapy is a collaborative process. Do you want more structure and guidance? Would you rather have space to explore freely? I try to adapt to each client’s needs. I’d like to strike a balance between direction and curiosity while utilizing our relationship to guide the pace of our work.

Q. What are your strengths as a therapist?

I believe my strengths include building genuine relationships, helping people feel understood, and creating space where difficult conversations can happen safely. You are coming in with things you typically wouldn’t share with others. Those parts of you are sacred but are also worth exploring.

Q. If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?

I’d have to go with teleportation, although flight was a really close second. There are so many places in this world that I would love to explore. How cool would that be to visit friends and family in an instant?

Q. What makes you laugh?

As a huge fan of stand-up comedy, nearly anything. I love (while others loathe) a good dad joke.

Q. Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?

Anthony Bourdain. I may have some bias working in the restaurant industry for most of my life. The dude was basically a rock star cook who constantly challenged conventions. He was also unapologetically himself. He probably has some really cool stories to tell. He would have to pick where we eat, though.