Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Grief, LGBTQIA? in Columbia, MO

Eric Lujan, LPC

Therapist in Columbia, MO

Meet Eric – A Compassionate Partner in Your Mental Health Journey

Welcome. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for meaningful change, you’re not alone—and you’ve taken an important step simply by being here. Life can bring challenges that leave us feeling uncertain, exhausted, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship stress, or navigating major life transitions, therapy can provide the support and clarity needed to move forward.

I’m Eric, a dedicated therapist with more than 12 years of licensed clinical experience working with adults aged 18 and older. I support individuals who are navigating the complexities of life, including mental health challenges, substance use, and co-occurring concerns. Whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or returning after a previous experience, my goal is to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered to create positive change.

My approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and practical strategies that help you better understand yourself while building the tools needed for a healthier and more fulfilling life.

 

What I Offer

I provide individual therapy in a welcoming, affirming, and culturally responsive environment where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Therapy with me focuses on helping you identify the patterns that may be contributing to stress or emotional struggles while strengthening the skills that support long-term growth and resilience.

Our work together is collaborative and focused on real-life progress. Through thoughtful conversation and evidence-based approaches, we will explore ways to reduce distress, improve emotional regulation, and increase your sense of control and self-awareness.

I frequently incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients recognize and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to anxiety, depression, and stress. Motivational Interviewing is often used to help individuals strengthen motivation for change and work through uncertainty about next steps. I also integrate Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) to help clients develop greater emotional balance and awareness in their daily lives.

When appropriate, I may also incorporate psychoeducation and expressive arts techniques to deepen understanding, encourage self-expression, and support the therapeutic process in ways that resonate with each individual.

 

Why Choose Eric?

Choosing the right therapist can make a meaningful difference in your healing journey. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore their experiences without fear of judgment.

With more than a decade of clinical experience, I have worked with individuals from many different backgrounds, cultures, and life circumstances. This experience has shaped my ability to support not only specific diagnoses but also the everyday emotional challenges people face in relationships, careers, and personal identity.

My work is deeply client-centered, meaning that therapy is always tailored to your unique goals, values, and life experiences. I believe there is no single path to healing, and together we will create a therapeutic approach that fits your needs.

Clients often describe my style as approachable, thoughtful, and practical. My goal is not only to help you understand what you are experiencing but also to provide clear strategies and tools that help you move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

 

Client Focus

I work with adults experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges. Many clients come to therapy seeking support for addiction, substance use, alcohol use, or drug abuse, as well as the complex emotional patterns that often accompany recovery.

I frequently support individuals living with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, emotional disturbance, and emotional regulation difficulties, helping them better understand their experiences while developing healthier coping strategies.

Clients also seek therapy for challenges related to ADHD, behavioral issues, anger management, stress, and burnout, as well as concerns around self-esteem, identity development, and body positivity. I work with individuals navigating men’s issues, relationship concerns, infidelity, peer relationship difficulties, and open relationships or non-monogamy, helping them strengthen communication, understanding, and emotional connection.

In addition, I support individuals experiencing dual diagnosis or co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, along with people coping with OCD, self-harm behaviors, or intense emotional stress.

I provide affirming support for LGBTQ+ individuals, including those who identify as transgender, and offer a respectful, inclusive space for exploring identity and relationships. My work also includes sex-positive and kink-allied therapy, where individuals can discuss personal experiences and relationship dynamics in a safe and nonjudgmental environment.

I also support individuals navigating life challenges related to caregiving responsibilities, cancer-related emotional stress, coping skills development, and relationship issues, helping them build resilience and maintain emotional balance during difficult times.

 

Therapeutic Modalities I Use

My approach to therapy is flexible and integrative, drawing from multiple evidence-based frameworks to meet each client’s individual needs.

I frequently incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help identify and reshape patterns of thinking that contribute to emotional distress. Motivational Interviewing is used to support behavioral change and strengthen internal motivation, particularly when clients feel uncertain or conflicted about making changes.

I also integrate Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) to promote present-moment awareness and emotional regulation, helping clients respond to stress with greater calm and clarity.

In addition to these approaches, my work reflects an eclectic therapeutic style that combines multiple perspectives and techniques. I incorporate person-centered therapy, which emphasizes empathy, understanding, and the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for healing. My practice also includes multicultural and culturally responsive approaches that honor each client’s background, values, and lived experiences.

 

What Clients Say

“Eric truly listens. I felt seen and supported without judgment. His approach helped me understand myself better and take control of my choices.”

“His ability to break things down and offer real strategies helped me gain momentum and feel hopeful again.”

“I’ve worked with other therapists before, but Eric helped me finally connect the dots and take action.”

 

Ready to Take the First Step?

Therapy does not have to feel intimidating or overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part is simply reaching out. If you’re ready to feel more confident, less burdened, and more in control of your life, I would be honored to support you.

You don’t have to wait until things become unmanageable to begin creating positive change. Reach out today to schedule a consultation, and let’s explore how we can work together to help you build the life you want—and deserve.

 

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