Get to know, Kim Lareau, Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor
We are so excited to take time today to introduce a member of our Steady Hope team! We have taken some time to sit down with one of our founder and resident adult, couples and trauma therapists and we hope you enjoy getting more of an inside scoop on Kim!
What got you into the counseling field?
So many things ended up guiding me to the field of counseling. For starters, I grew up in a home with both parents in the medical field so I have been drawn to medicine and understanding people since I was a kid. I thought that I would end up in an explicitly medical field job. As I went college I began to understand the field of counseling more through my own experience with therapy, my close friends experiences with mental health services, courses I took at UGA, and my own interest in learning more. I also found myself gravitating towards volunteering and serving in organizations that created space for me to meet one on one with teens/ peers and those experiencing poverty, abuse, or other life difficulties. A few years into college, I changed my major to psychology and continued to explore what would come post grad. I learned about Richmont from several people I was volunteering with and decided that in order to continue doing the work that I was doing in the volunteer roles that I wanted to be more equipped to provide professional services. That led me to apply to Richmont and a few other schools. I found myself starting at Richmont the fall after graduation.
What is the biggest myth you have heard about counseling?
So many- biggest myth that you had to experience something significant enough to "need" support.
What types of clients do you work with?
College students, young adults, and middle aged adults. I love working with those navigating life transitions, other helping professionals (counselors, nurses, doctors, ministry leaders), high achieving individuals, and new mothers.
What’s your favorite tool/book/recommendation you give to almost all of your clients?
So many- Most recently I love the "Try Softer" book by Aundi Kolber, for those processing dating- I recommend "How to avoid falling in love with a jerk". I love suggesting journaling and coach clients through decreasing perfectionistic tendencies tied to journalling.
What does free time look like for you?
Hanging with my two little ones, reading for fun and growth, working out, spending time with friends and family, watching GA football
What is your favorite thing about the work that you do?
I love meeting new people! I love supporting my team at Steady Hope and walking alongside clients as they share their lives with me. I genuinely love empowering clinicians and clients to continue growing, getting to know themselves, identifying their values, and setting up a life that helps them feel like they are thriving.
What is your go-to coffee order?
Go to coffee shop order recently is: Brown Sugar Oatmilk shaken espresso or a simple Caramel Almond Milk Latte
If you're interested in scheduling a free consultation with Kim, be sure to click the link here to get started!