
Hi there,
I'm Lera!
LERA AKHAND, CLINICAL RESIDENT

“Understanding why people suffer, how they change, and how to help them live more satisfying and gratifying lives is a fascinating, huge, and important undertaking.”
— John Sommers-Flanagan, Ph.D., LMHC
My name is Lera Akhand, and I’m a Clinical Mental Health Counseling student at Liberty University.
I believe in the power of genuine connection and the healing that comes from feeling truly seen and supported. Helping others navigate their struggles isn’t just what I do, it’s my purpose as a counselor.
During a difficult season in my life, I found comfort in family stories, especially because of my mother, whose quiet strength and commitment to self-care taught me the importance of emotional resilience and honoring your own needs. Those lessons continue to guide the way I show up for my clients.
At the heart of my work, there is a strong belief that healing begins with self-compassion. I help clients challenge negative thinking patterns and reshape them into more empowering beliefs because true change starts from within. I strive to create a space where people feel safe, heard, and valued as they explore new ways to cope, connect, and thrive.