Faith
In a world that is constantly seeking some new experience, we need to be reminded that God’s Word is indeed sufficient for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). That’s the truth I hope to convey in my counsel. The joy of my life is to make others feel less alone, using my words, my actions, or simply my presence to communicate: “I see you, but more importantly, God sees you”
(Genesis 16:13).
"Take an Honest Look"
What we see may not be pretty, but if the Redeemer is to heal us, we must be able to take an honest look at what needs healing. It would be a joy to do that with you.
Hello, all! My name is Lina Irias and I am a bilingual, bicultural licensed mental health counselor. I am very excited to be a part of Zion Counseling Center LLC to do what I love.
My education, training, and experience have provided me with the exposure needed to continue to hone my passion for counseling. I hold a B.S. in Psychology from Nyack College and an M.S. Ed. in Mental Health Counseling from CUNY Hunter College. Over the years, I’ve worked with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, family, and group counseling. My clientele has included people from diverse backgrounds and ages with various mental health struggles, including but not limited to anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, addiction, abuse, family dysfunction, relational struggles, crisis, body image, and spiritual struggles. I’ve worked extensively with survivors of various forms of trauma, and also have experience counseling in faith-based organizations. Doing so has reinforced my belief that the person and work of Christ must be central to effectively work through life’s struggles.
I think the Westminster Assembly said it best in responding to the question of mankind’s purpose: “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.” However, being subjected to the sin and brokenness of this world, none of us intrinsically do that as we ought. In my role as a counselor, I hope to come alongside you as we navigate the struggles specific to you in light of God’s revealed will in his Word. I do not merely wish to point you to skills you can use so that you no longer feel anxious or depressed, though that is part of my role. It’s always exciting to see improvement in these areas, but I believe it is too small a goal, too simplistic an endeavor. As long as we live, we will be bombarded with trials and temptations to fear and despair. But when we develop the skill of leaning into the means of grace God has granted us, including our relationships, we are well equipped to face any trial, come what may. I will work to empower you to discern how to understand your struggles through the lens of Scripture and help point you to the healing He intends for you to have.
I look forward to connecting with you!
-Lina D. Irias, LMHC, M.Ed.