Kiara Luna is not just a licensed mental health therapist but a visionary who believes in the transformative power within everyone. With this belief, she founded Knew You Psychotherapy, aiming to guide those on the path to empowerment and self-awareness. Kiara's influence extends beyond her therapy sessions; she's been featured in esteemed publications like Fatherly, Psych Central, and Bustle, and her bestselling book, "Becoming a Knew You," has touched countless lives. Known for her captivating speaking engagements and workshops, Kiara inspires audiences to embrace change and live authentically. In her therapy practice, she blends empathy and expertise, guiding clients toward self-discovery and healing with a holistic approach. Through her tireless dedication, Kiara Luna is shaping the future of mental health care and inspiring others to embark on their own transformative journeys.
Kiara Luna, CEO & Founder
Introduce yourself! Please tell us about you and your life, so we can get to know you better.
My name is Kiara Luna, and I am a Dominican Afro-Latina woman deeply passionate about mental health and relationships. As a licensed mental health therapist, author, public speaker, and owner of Knew You Psychotherapy, I dedicate my career to fostering healing and growth. Beyond my professional realm, I cherish spending quality time with my family, and delving into books that expand my perspective.
I also love to laugh and find joy in the simple moments, whether that's having fun with friends or enjoying downtime with my pitbull, Kaci, who is the only other girl in our house. These moments of levity and connection are vital to me, complementing my professional life and keeping me grounded. Engaging in activities that promote self-care and well-being, like meditation or a spontaneous dance session in my living room, plays a significant role in how I balance the demands of life and work. My life's tapestry is woven with commitments to both my personal and professional growth, and each interaction, whether with a client, friend, or family member, enriches my journey.
What inspired you to start Knew You Psychotherapy Mental Health Counseling PLLC, and how did your professional journey lead you to this point?
The inspiration to start Knew You Psychotherapy came from my desire to create a safe and trustworthy environment where individuals could explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Throughout my career in mental health, I realized the profound impact that therapy could have on people's lives. I wanted to extend my reach and offer support to as many individuals as possible, which led me to establish my own practice. My professional journey, marked by extensive experience and a passion for helping others, naturally evolved into this entrepreneurial endeavor.
Can you describe the range of services you offer and what sets Knew You Psychotherapy Mental Health Counseling PLLC apart from other therapy practices?
At Knew You Psychotherapy, we offer a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and couples. Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy, and group therapy sessions. We are actually in the process of starting a grief group. We specialize in helping clients develop healthier ways to communicate, understand the impact of childhood trauma, set boundaries, and increase self-esteem. What sets us apart is our holistic and client-centered approach, which focuses on creating a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences deeply. We emphasize the importance of emotional safety and vulnerability in fostering meaningful connections and personal growth.
How do you approach treatment and therapy to ensure it meets the unique needs of each client?
My approach to treatment is highly individualized and client-centered. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their emotions and experiences. I use a combination of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based practices, tailored to each client's unique needs. By actively listening and engaging with clients, I ensure that their therapy is personalized and effective. I also encourage clients to take an active role in their healing journey, empowering them to make meaningful changes in their lives.
What are some of the most common issues or challenges your clients face, and how do you address them?
Many of my clients face issues related to relationships, such as communication difficulties, emotional disconnection, and unresolved childhood trauma that affects their current interactions. Others struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. I address these challenges by helping clients gain insight into their behaviors and emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and improve their communication skills. Through therapy, clients learn to navigate their challenges, build stronger connections, and foster emotional safety in their relationships.
Can you share a success story or a transformative experience that highlights the impact of your therapy approach?
One of the most transformative experiences involved a couple who came to therapy on the verge of separation. They struggled with communication and felt emotionally disconnected. Through our sessions, they learned to understand each other's perspectives, developed new rituals of connection, and created a safe space for vulnerability. Over time, they rebuilt their emotional intimacy and developed a stronger, more resilient relationship. This experience highlighted the power of therapy in fostering understanding and connection, demonstrating the profound impact of a tailored and compassionate approach. The couple is now married and planning on starting their family soon.
What are your future goals for Knew You Psychotherapy Mental Health Counseling PLLC, and how do you plan to evolve your practice to continue meeting clients' needs?
My goals for Knew You Psychotherapy include expanding our services to reach a broader audience and integrating more holistic and innovative therapeutic approaches. I plan to offer more workshops and online resources to make mental health support more accessible. Additionally, I aim to continue professional development for myself and my team, ensuring we stay updated with the latest therapeutic techniques and research. By evolving our practice, we can continue to meet the diverse and changing needs of our clients.
If you could change one thing about your industry, what would it be and why?
If I could change one thing about the mental health industry, it would be to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Many individuals hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgment or misunderstanding. By promoting awareness and education, we can create a more supportive and accepting environment for those struggling with mental health challenges. This change would encourage more people to seek the help they need and lead to a healthier, more compassionate society.
