Meet Lanie DaSilva, Master's Intern — Fort Collins Therapist

That quote from Carl Rogers has always stuck with me. When we watch a sunset, we don't try to control it or critique it — we simply sit in awe as it unfolds. I believe people deserve the same kind of space.

As a therapist, my main focus is the relationship between counselor and client. I believe that many of our deepest wounds are formed in relationships, and healing happens in relationships, too. My client-centered approach serves as the foundation of my work, creating a space where you can show up exactly as you are. I'm a master's-level counseling intern in Fort Collins, Colorado, working with teens, young adults, college students, and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, the pressures of student athletics, and high-stress careers.

Many people find that I bring humor into the therapy room. I am authentic as a clinician; as a student, as a friend, and as a therapist, I remain the same person. I don't believe you need to have the "right" words or know exactly where to start when you come to therapy.

I strive to create a grounded environment where clients can express themselves at whatever level feels comfortable. You may tell me your deepest thoughts right away, and you may not. Importantly, you don't have to. In this space, you get to choose. I am simply here to witness, support, teach if you ask, and walk alongside you.

The approaches I am most drawn to are Internal Family Systems (IFS), Adlerian Therapy, Choice Theory, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). One aspect of Adlerian theory that fascinates me is the idea that our behavior may be motivated not only by our past experiences, but also by our goals for the future. Sometimes what keeps us stuck isn't our past — it's our lack of courage to make different choices. Through the therapeutic relationship, I hope to help clients discover that courage.

I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, college students, and adults navigating relationship concerns, identity development, self-esteem challenges, anxiety, and the effects of trauma — including student athletes managing the mental toll of competition, and professionals navigating high-stress careers.

As a graduate student myself, I understand that life can feel overwhelming when you're balancing academics, work, relationships, and figuring out who you want to become. My background as a collegiate athlete has also given me firsthand experience with performance pressure, stress, and the connection between mental and physical well-being — which is part of why I especially enjoy working with student athletes and people navigating high-stress careers, since I've felt those same pressures myself.

 Wondering if this feels like a fit? Visit Areas of Support for a closer look at what I treat, or schedule a consultation and let's talk more about your goals for therapy.