- Children and Adolescents
- Relationship Issues
- Anxiety/Depression
- School/Academic concerns
- Behavioral Concerns
- Neurodivergence
- Family Issues
Carolyn Lay, LPC Associate, Supervised by Shan Oliver LPC-S
I fell in love with teaching because I relished working with high-risk students, helping them overcome academic and behavior challenges. After a decade of classroom teaching, I returned to school for my Master’s Degree to become a school counselor. During 7 years as a counselor, as I focused on the mental health needs of children, parents, and families in my schools, I realized that I could help even more families needing mental health support as a full-time therapist.
As a therapist today, I am privileged to use many tools in a culturally informed environment to meet clients where they are in their personal journeys. I have experience working across diverse populations and settings, including schools, outpatient clinics, and community-based programs. I also have extensive experience working with children and their families to create safe, inclusive spaces that empower my clients to turn challenges into opportunities for learning. I encourage building resilience and fostering meaningful mental and emotional growth for anyone at any age. I approach my clients with empathy, collaboration, and a deep respect for the lived experience of those I serve.
I am a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for supporting individuals and families through compassionate, evidence-based care. Incorporating trauma-informed practices and modalities such as cognitive behavioral (CBT) and play therapy, I tailor interventions to the individual’s unique needs and developmental stage. I am committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices in mental health care, ensuring that my work remains responsive, ethical, and impactful.
Born and raised in the Texas Hill Country, I have lived with my husband and our three children in the New Braunfels/San Marcos area for 16 years. In my free time, you may see me with my children, looking for tadpoles in the San Marcos River or working with my soon-to-become therapy dogs in the neighborhood. I love to cook, make shirts for fun events, and explore new places in and around our communities. I look forward to meeting you.
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