OUR FOUNDER
Lara Neely, DBH, LPC | Doctor of Behavioral Health | Licensed Professional Counselor
Hi, I’m Lara Neely—a Doctor of Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, and a passionate advocate for accessible mental health care. For years, I’ve dedicated my career to diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health challenges. My journey began in psychiatric hospital settings and private practice, where I witnessed firsthand the growing demand for mental health services, particularly for anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
In the aftermath of COVID-19, the prevalence of generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and separation anxiety skyrocketed. Simultaneously, I saw more individuals of all ages seeking support for OCD. As my practice overflowed with calls from people in urgent need of care, I was struck by the stark reality: as one therapist, my time is finite, and many are left waiting far too long for help. This realization became my catalyst to create something transformative.
I founded The Mind University to bridge this gap by delivering evidence-based, structured tools and resources to the masses. Drawing from my years of experience, I’ve developed courses that empower individuals to access practical therapeutic strategies—either as a supplement to therapy or as a stand-alone resource. My goal has always been to provide affordable, effective, and easy-to-implement tools that allow clients to flourish emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and physically.
Therapists, too, can benefit from the companion manuals that I created for each course, which provide a structured framework for weekly sessions. This not only enhances consistency and clarity in therapy but also ensures that vital concepts and techniques are communicated effectively, paving the way for impactful, long-lasting change.
Ultimately, The Mind University is my effort to ensure that no one feels stuck waiting for care. I’m dedicated to helping as many people as possible navigate their mental health journey with confidence, clarity, and resilience. I invite you to explore these resources, provide feedback, and join me in making quality mental healthcare an accessible reality for all.