Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ariela Lack. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Ariela thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s go back in time to when you were an intern or apprentice – what’s an interesting story you can share from that stage of your career?
There are so many stories I could tell from my internship days that I could probably write a book! But one story stands out the most. I had just started as a clinical intern at a private practice focused on supporting immigrant and refugee communities. Like any counseling intern, I was both nervous and ridiculously eager to get it right. The reality of being a “real” counselor hit me hard when I was assigned my very first client. That’s right—I was going to be someone’s therapist. Imagine people saying, “My therapist said…” and realizing they were talking about me. Cue a major mix of excitement, anxiety, and just a dash of “oh no, what have I gotten myself into.”
So, in walked my very first client, and I felt every emotion imaginable. I mentally ran through my training, all the best practices, and every intervention I could think of, ready to deliver the perfect session. But as she began sharing her story, it became so clear that what she needed wasn’t a polished intervention or an impressive therapeutic monologue. She simply needed someone to be there with her and listen, really listen. I threw out the rehearsed script in my head, sat with her in the moment, and just…listened.
I realized then that my counseling approach was rooted in something even deeper than textbook techniques: pure intuition. It was about tuning into what my client truly needed in that moment—not what a manual or therapy model was telling me to do. I learned to trust myself, to focus on being present and adapting to the individual in front of me, rather than delivering a one-size-fits-all approach. That session taught me that the true therapeutic relationship happens when we meet people where they are, even if it means tossing aside the “rules” and following our gut.
Ariela , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I was born and raised in Guatemala and moved to the United States in 2017. Growing up as a bicultural child, my culture has always been a significant part of who I am and how I approach my work. Culture is not just an aspect of my identity; it’s a lens through which I view the world and my clients. I firmly believe that understanding a person’s cultural background is crucial to effective therapy. As a little girl, I would often ask questions about people’s lives—how many siblings they had, why they were upset, what traditions they celebrated, or what conflicts they faced within their families. This desire to understand others has shaped my professional journey. I love working with clients from diverse backgrounds because it enriches the therapeutic experience. Each session presents an opportunity to learn from my clients and gain insights into their unique perspectives. This cultural appreciation allows me to tailor my approach to meet their individual needs and create more meaningful connections.
I developed a passion for helping people understand themselves from a young age. I have always been particularly drawn to children. My experiences range from working as a pediatric case manager to working as a Registered Behavioral Technician with children on the autism spectrum and now as a play therapist. I believe that by supporting children in their formative years, I can help them grow into healed and thriving adults. Working with children teaches you resilience and patience. With that being said, I also find that collaborating with parents is essential. Many challenges originate at home, and I believe that working together is the most effective way to create positive change.
I am incredibly proud of the dedication I have shown to my clients and the investments I have made in my growth as a therapist. What sets me apart is my unique approach to meeting clients where they are, combined with my commitment to trauma-informed, culturally accepting, and flexible practices.
I primarily work with young children and young adults, practicing from a person-centered approach. I love incorporating expressive arts and play into my sessions however, I incorporate a multitude of techniques because I recognize that no two clients are the same, and each brings their own experiences to the table. I often tell my clients that we are on this journey together—they are in the driver’s seat while I sit in the passenger seat, supporting them as they navigate their path.
My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment for my clients where they can explore their emotions and experiences. I am here to help them grow, heal, and thrive. I am truly dedicated to clients’ journeys, whatever that may look like. In my therapy room, you can expect to receive a therapist who truly cares, will meet you where you are, and will provide effective care.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
If I could go back, I would absolutely choose the same profession again. My journey as a therapist has been transformative, helping me grow into a more confident and positive adult. This path has illuminated what truly matters to me and provided invaluable perspectives on life and healing.
Being a therapist has not only deepened my understanding of others but has also allowed me to confront my own challenges and resilience. The experience has shaped my identity and reinforced my commitment to helping individuals navigate their struggles. I have discovered my true passions within this field, and the opportunity to support clients in their journeys is incredibly fulfilling. I wouldn’t hesitate to choose this profession again, as it allows me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives while continually growing and learning alongside them.
Working with kids feels less like a job and more like an adventure. Every day is different, keeping me on my toes and bringing new challenges and joys. Engaging with their curiosity and creativity allows me to reconnect with my own inner child, reminding me of the simple joys in life. Plus, I love helping parents empower their kids to become their best selves. It’s a rewarding experience that feels like a two-for-one deal: I get to grow personally while supporting families in meaningful ways.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One significant lesson I had to unlearn was my belief in perfectionism—the idea that I needed to get everything right. Growing up, I often felt the pressure to achieve and excel, whether in school or in my personal life. This drive for perfection created a mindset where I expected everything to unfold flawlessly, both in my work and my relationships.
As I entered the field of therapy, I quickly realized that this approach was not only unrealistic but also counterproductive. Therapy is inherently unpredictable, and each client brings their own unique experiences and challenges. I learned that expecting things to go perfectly was not only futile but could also hinder my ability to connect with clients authentically.
Through my journey, I began to appreciate the beauty in imperfection. I discovered that it’s in the messy, unpolished moments that true growth often occurs—both for my clients and myself. I learned to embrace my path without viewing it through the lens of perfection. This shift has allowed me to approach my work with greater compassion and understanding, both for my clients and for myself.
By letting go of the need for perfection, I’ve found freedom in the process. I now recognize that every experience, even the challenging ones, contributes to my development as a therapist and as an individual. This lesson has enriched my practice, helping me cultivate a more open and accepting environment where both I and my clients can thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tollesoncc.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariela-lack-m-a-ncc-lapc-746594140?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3Bt0701pYBTNqLyNYWWJLgQw%3D%3D
