Dr. Yael Banai, LPC

Dr. Yael Banai is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Louisiana with three decades of clinical experience. She has spent much of her career working in school settings while also providing care in other environments for a diverse range of clients, including teens and young adults. Her clinical focus includes ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar conditions, and personality disorders, as well as challenges related to family dynamics, parenting, career concerns, and coping with life changes.

Her therapeutic style is calm and empathetic, emphasizing each person as a distinct individual whose strengths and struggles do not fit into negative labels. She draws from multiple therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral methods, rational emotive techniques, psychodynamic and transactional analysis approaches, and humanistic, client-centered practices. Treatment plans are individualized - she tailors the approach and goals to the specific needs and circumstances of each client.

Dr. Banai frames therapy as a process and invites clients to take the first step even when it feels daunting. She encourages courage and realistic hope as part of moving toward a more manageable and meaningful tomorrow.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on creating a respectful, empathetic space where the client is treated as the expert on their own life. This approach supports self-esteem, coping with life changes, and relational concerns by emphasizing listening, validation, and the client’s goals.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works by helping clients identify and adjust unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT is often used for anxiety, depression, stress, anger, and challenges with attention and impulsivity, offering practical strategies for day-to-day coping.

Psychodynamic Therapy explores patterns that developed over time, including ways early relationships and experiences influence current reactions. This approach can be helpful for understanding recurring interpersonal difficulties and personality-related struggles.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Dr. Banai works with clients to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adjusts the plan as progress unfolds.

Online sessions by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging allow flexibility in scheduling and make it easier for clients to access care from different locations. These options let licensed professionals and therapists meet clients where they are and provide consistent support that fits everyday life.