THE HEALTHWISE TEAM

Laurie Darling, Ph.D.

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Darling is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the evaluation and assessment of children and adults. She has 20 years of clinical practice and enjoys helping individuals make sense of their strengths, struggles, and everything in between – from anxiety and depression to ADHD and learning disorders. Dr. Darling earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in medical/clinical psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), as well as her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Orleans. She founded HealthWise Psychology in 2019.

Lisa Garner, LPC, LMFT

Licensed professional counselor & marriage/family therapist

Lisa is a licensed therapist who works individually with children (over the age of 5), teens, and adults, as well as couples and families. She specializes in helping clients with ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, personality disorders, self–harm, substance abuse, sexual/porn addiction, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, relationship issues, life transition issues, job loss/career change, and LGBTQ issues. Lisa earned her master’s degree in counseling from the University of Holy Cross, with a concentration in marriage, couples, and family counseling. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the California State University at San Bernardino, with a social work concentration.

Chyna Nguyen, PLPC

Provisionally licensed professional counselor

Chyna is a provisionally licensed therapist who works with adults. She enjoys working with individuals to navigate challenges, manage stressors, and build strengths to be a healthier version of themselves. She specializes in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, and relationship issues. She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Xavier University and has over five years of experience in the mental health field.

Shannon Austin, Ph.D.

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Austin is a clinical psychologist licensed in both Louisiana and Alabama. She currently provides care in private practice virtually and in-person in Metairie, and through the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System in New Orleans. Dr. Austin specializes in working collaboratively with adults experiencing a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, behavioral change challenges, relationship or chronic stress, insomnia, and chronic pain. She is certified as both a Therapist and Supervisor by the International Society for Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). In addition to IPT, Dr. Austin offers evidence-based treatments such as Motivational Interviewing to support behavior change and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for insomnia, chronic pain, and brief CBT. Known for her compassionate and respectful approach, Dr. Austin values meeting individuals where they are, including exploring mental health in the context of their religious or spiritual beliefs. She is a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing and resides in Southeast Louisiana with her family.

For prospective new clients or patients, please let us know if you are inquiring about an evaluation and/or therapy, primary concerns (e.g., anxiety, ADHD), and insurance info (e.g., BCBS, United), as well as any other helpful info to relay (e.g., best available times to reach out, referral source, etc.).

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