Luana is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Master Social Worker who is committed to supporting individuals as they navigate mental health challenges, life transitions, and personal growth. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University. Luana was drawn to the mental health field through her desire to understand people’s experiences and provide meaningful support, and she believes that meeting clients where they are is an important part of creating a strong therapeutic relationship.

Luana creates a safe, supportive, and judgment-free therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and respected. Her approach is collaborative and grounded in empathy, with an emphasis on building trust and helping clients recognize their strengths. She believes that understanding each individual’s unique experiences and challenges allows for more meaningful and individualized support.

Since earning her Bachelor’s degree, Luana has worked with teens, providing guidance, support, and practical tools to help them manage mental health concerns and strengthen family dynamics. She began her career in the mental health field as a technician and worked her way into her current role as an experienced therapist. Over the past five years, she has supported individuals in a residential setting who have experienced PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use, personality disorders, and mood disorders.

Luana works with adolescents and adults who may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, mood and personality-related challenges, and difficulties within family relationships. She works collaboratively with clients to better understand the challenges they are experiencing, develop effective coping skills, and build practical tools that can support greater stability and functioning in everyday life.

In her clinical work, Luana draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-informed approaches. She focuses on building the therapeutic alliance while helping clients develop new skills, increase self-awareness, and find healthier ways to manage day-to-day struggles.

Luana believes that meaningful change begins with feeling understood and supported. Her goal is to meet clients where they are while helping them develop the confidence, skills, and resilience needed to navigate challenges and move toward greater well-being.

Outside of the therapy room, Luana enjoys spending time with animals, being in nature, traveling, and spending quality time with her friends and family.