Ariana Guzman, MSW, LCSWA Professional Headshot

Ariana Guzman, MSW, LCSWA

Welcome to Hearth Counseling & Consulting

I’m Ariana Guzman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) with a Master’s in Social Work from Florida State University. I provide compassionate, individualized care to both adolescents and adults, supporting them as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions.

Education & Licensure

  • BFA in Dance, University of North Carolina at Greensboro 

  • Master of Social Work (MSW), Florida State University

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, North Carolina

Professional Experience

I bring over 5 years of experience providing therapy to diverse individuals, families, and minority communities, which has strengthened my commitment to offering inclusive and affirming care. My background also includes working in private practice settings, where I supported individuals and families as they navigated complex mental health challenges.

In addition to my clinical work, I have spent the last 8 years as a professional dance artist and educator. This experience has profoundly shaped my therapeutic approach by fostering an understanding of the body–mind connection and the power of movement as a form of emotional expression. Working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds through dance has further enhanced my ability to meet clients where they are and honor the unique ways each person communicates and heals.

My Approach to Therapy

My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in empathy, authenticity, and respect. I practice from a trauma-informed and culturally responsive lens, honoring each client’s unique identity, lived experience, and individual needs. I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and tailored to the person sitting in front of me. Together, we will identify your strengths, gain clarity, and work toward meaningful and lasting change.

My primary area of focus is supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in a safe, affirming, and judgment-free environment. I provide a space where clients can explore their identities, relationships, life experiences, and mental health with curiosity and compassion. I am committed to providing gender-affirming care that honors each person’s unique journey while supporting authenticity, resilience, self-acceptance, and a deeper sense of connection to themselves.

Together, we may work to process difficult emotions and past experiences, develop effective coping strategies, navigate life transitions, strengthen self-compassion, and build confidence in living authentically. My goal is to foster a therapeutic relationship where you feel genuinely seen, respected, and empowered to move toward a life that feels aligned with your values and the person you want to become.

Areas of Focus

  • LGBTQIA Communities – Providing a supportive, affirming, and judgment-free space where clients can safely explore their identities, relationships, life experiences, and mental health.

  • Anxiety & Depression – Support in managing symptoms, building coping skills, and restoring balance

  • Autism Spectrum (ASD) Support – Supporting individuals and families in understanding, navigating, and thriving with neurodiversity

  • Life Transitions – Guidance through changes like school, career shifts, or parenthood

  • Relationship Dynamics – Improving communication, boundaries, and connections
    Identity & Self-Exploration – Space to explore cultural identity, gender, orientation, and values

  • Stress Management – Tools to regulate emotions and build resilience

Therapeutic Techniques & Modalities

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Identifying and shifting unhelpful thought patterns.

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Building skills to manage emotions and strengthen relationships.

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Cultivating acceptance and aligning with personal values.

  • Mindfulness Techniques – Supporting presence, calm, and emotional regulation.

A Little About Me

Outside of my professional role, I enjoy staying connected to the performing arts through dance, as a performer, educator, and an ongoing creative spirit. When I’m not in the office or studio, you can often find me exploring local coffee shops, spending time with my partner and our two dogs, or getting lost in a compelling documentary or a good book. I'm passionate about continuous learning, both in and out of the therapy setting, and I look forward to walking alongside you on your path toward growth, clarity, and well-being.

Insurance Accepted

  • BCBS

  • Blue Home w/ UNC Health Alliance

  • Aetna

  • SHP

  • Healthy Blue

  • Out-of-network for all others

Session Availability

  • Virtual and In-Person sessions offered

Locations

8392 Six Forks Rd Suite 203

Raleigh, NC 27615

800 West Williams Suite 231 D

Apex, NC 27502

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