Ocotillo Counseling

Couples & Individual Therapy in Austin, TX

Dr. Lauren Barnard, PhD — Licensed Psychologist | PACT Couples Therapy | Telehealth Across 40 States

Schedule a free consultation
Schedule a free consultation

Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Whether you're navigating relationship difficulties, struggling with self-understanding, wrestling with anxiety or depression, feeling disconnected, or standing at a crossroads, I provide a warm, collaborative space where we can work together to create meaningful change.

I work with individuals and couples who are curious about themselves and ready to do more than cope. With over 11 years of experience, I combine depth-oriented psychological work with genuine engagement. I help people understand not just what is happening, but why, and what becomes possible when longstanding patterns begin to shift.

I'm present, curious, and honest. There's real relief in being understood, and sometimes that comes with laughter. I am not just paying attention to what's being said, I am interested in the whole person in front of me.

I see clients in person in Austin and offer telehealth in 40 states through PSYPACT, including Colorado, Tennessee, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, and more.

Click here to Schedule a Free Consultation
Click here to Schedule a Free Consultation

About Dr. Lauren Barnard

I received my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin, MS in Clinical Psychology from the University of Kentucky, and BA in Psychology from the University of California at Berkeley.

I have training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I am a Level 1 trained PACT couples therapist. (License #39159).

I am available for in-person or Zoom sessions in Austin, Texas and online in 40 states.

Dr. Lauren Barnard, PhD, psychologist and founder of Ocotillo Counseling in Austin, Texas.

Treatment Approach

I integrate several therapeutic approaches based on each client's needs:

  • Attachment Theory to understand relationship patterns and build secure connections

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for practical tools to manage thoughts and behaviors

  • Psychodynamic Theory to explore how past experiences influence present challenges

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to build psychological flexibility and value-aligned living

  • Motivational Interviewing to help navigate ambivalence and foster positive change

  • Psychodynamic Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT) to help couples navigate conflict, repair resentment, improve communication, and build a more secure connection

Online therapy across the U.S.

As part of the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), Ocotillo can provide telepsychology (Zoom) services to individuals located in the following states:

  • Alabama

  • Arizona

  • Arkansas

  • Colorado

  • Connecticut

  • Delaware

  • District of Columbia

  • Florida

  • Georgia

  • Idaho

  • Illinois

  • Indiana

  • Kansas

  • Kentucky

  • Maine

  • Maryland

  • Michigan

  • Minnesota

  • Mississippi

  • Missouri

  • Nebraska

  • Nevada

  • New Hampshire

  • New Jersey

  • North Carolina

  • North Dakota

  • Ohio

  • Oklahoma

  • Pennsylvania

  • Rhode Island

  • South Carolina

  • South Dakota

  • Tennessee

  • Texas

  • Utah

  • Vermont

  • Virginia

  • Washington

  • West Virginia

  • Wisconsin

  • Wyoming

Services

  • Individual Therapy

    I offer 50-minute individual adult therapy sessions. In-person or virtual availability (virtual sessions are available to clients in Austin, TX and in 40 states).

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  • Couples Therapy

    Following the PACT approach to couples counseling, couples sessions are typically 90-110 minutes long.

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  • Assessment

    Individual ADHD assessment for adults to confirm a suspected diagnosis.

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Reaching out is the hardest part.

Please fill out the form below to schedule a free 30-minute Zoom consultation