Ariel Lugo, MS
Ariel provides a compassionate, authentic, and supportive space for clients to explore life’s challenges and personal growth. Her therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from person-centered principles while incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and play therapy techniques when appropriate. Ariel believes that healing is not a one-size-fits-all process and strives to meet each client where they are, honoring their unique experiences, goals, and strengths. Clients often appreciate Ariel’s honesty, empathy, and ability to navigate difficult conversations with warmth and understanding. She values building meaningful therapeutic relationships that foster connection, self-discovery, and empowerment throughout the counseling process.
EDUCATION & expertise
Ariel’s professional journey began in the arts, where she developed a deep appreciation for human connection, empathy, and storytelling. After earning her degree in Theatre, she pursued her passion for understanding human development by obtaining an undergraduate degree in Developmental Psychology, followed by a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Ariel works with children, adolescents, young adults, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and neurodivergent populations. Her primary areas of focus include anxiety, depression, and life transitions, with a growing specialty interest in autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and trauma. As both a clinician and a member of the neurodivergent community, Ariel brings a unique combination of professional training and personal insight to her work, helping clients feel seen, understood, and supported in their healing journeys.
more about Ariel
Ariel is an Afro-Puerto Rican woman who made her permanent move to Florida in 2020. She is originally from Brockton, Massachusetts, a city in Plymouth County, 20 minutes south of Boston.
When she’s not counseling clients, Ariel enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two young children. Her family loves exploring new adventures together, whether that means visiting theme parks, discovering new restaurants, or creating lasting memories through shared experiences.
