Austen LaBarge, LCSW

Quality Mental Health Care built on trust and transparency

My name is Austen LaBarge, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Upstate New York. Over the past 10 years, I have been dedicated to creating a calm, supportive space where clients feel comfortable opening up, processing their experiences, and working toward meaningful change.

I understand that beginning therapy can feel intimidating. My goal is to make the process feel as approachable and comfortable as possible. My style is down-to-earth and collaborative—I aim to create an environment where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. At times, this may include lighthearted conversation or moments of humor, while also focusing on the deeper work that brings you to therapy.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, as well as couples and families navigating a wide range of challenges. I commonly support clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, and significant life changes or loss. I also work with individuals struggling with compulsive or difficult-to-manage behaviors, including sexual behaviors.

While I take a primarily person-centered approach, I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, and trauma-informed care—to tailor treatment to your unique needs and goals.

Above all, I believe therapy should feel like a partnership. You don’t have to navigate challenges alone—I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Client Experience

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique experiences and challenges. I commonly support clients who are experiencing:

  • Anxiety or feeling overwhelmed by stress

  • Depression or a sense of not feeling like themselves

  • Trauma, sudden life changes, or significant loss

  • Panic attacks

  • Compulsive or difficult-to-control sexual thoughts or behaviors

I am also comfortable working with couples and families, helping to improve communication, navigate challenges, and strengthen relationships.

My Approach

Beginning therapy can feel anxiety-provoking, and it’s completely normal to feel unsure at first. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, supported, and able to be yourself.

My approach is down-to-earth and collaborative. I drive from person-centered approaches. I strive to keep sessions relaxed and approachable—we may share lighthearted moments or small talk, while also focusing on the deeper work of understanding and addressing the patterns and challenges that brought you to therapy.

You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’ll work through it together.

My Training

While I primarily take a person-centered approach, I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. I have training and experience in the following approaches:

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Psychodynamic Therapy

  • Trauma-Informed Care

Telehealth & Out of Pocket
At this time, I offer telehealth appointments only, allowing you to access support from the comfort of your own space. I accept most major commercial insurance plans, as well as out-of-pocket payments, and offer sliding scale options when needed.

Out-of-Pocket Fees

  • Individual Session: $150

  • Couples/Family Session: $225

I believe that cost should not be a barrier to care. If you have questions about insurance or fees, please don’t hesitate to reach out.


No Surprises Act – Good Faith Estimate Notice

Under the federal No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for health care services. A Good Faith Estimate shows the expected cost of items and services we provide. This estimate is provided in advance of care, when services are scheduled or upon request.

If you are not using insurance (including if you are uninsured or plan to pay out‑of‑pocket), you may request a Good Faith Estimate before receiving services. The estimate will include expected charges, provider information (including NPI and TIN), and a statement explaining that the estimate is only an estimate and actual charges may differ.

If the actual billed charges are $400 or more above the Good Faith Estimate, you may have the right to dispute the bill through a federal Patient‑Provider Dispute Resolution process.

To request a Good Faith Estimate or if you have questions about this notice, please contact our office.

Insurance Accepted
I accept a variety of insurance plans, including:

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

  • Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

  • TRICARE

  • Cigna

  • Oxford

  • UnitedHealthcare

If you do not see your insurance listed, please feel free to reach out to discuss your options

Let’s get started on your healing journey

I offer a variety of scheduling options to meet your needs, including daytime, evening, and weekend appointments as requested.

To schedule an appointment or consultation, please use the link below: Austen Labarge, LCSW - Alma

You may also contact me by phone: 315‑757‑2248 or email austenlabarge@yahoo.com

I look forward to supporting you on your journey and will do my best to find a time that fits your schedule.

Disclaimer – Not Crisis Services

Important: I do not provide crisis or emergency services. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, are in danger of harming yourself or others, or need immediate help, please call 911 (in the U.S.) or go to your nearest emergency room.

For urgent mental health support, you can also contact:

988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)

988 Lifeline Chat: https://988lifeline.org

Local crisis services – check your state or county resources

Therapy appointments are scheduled in advance and are not monitored 24/7. If you are in crisis, please reach out to trained emergency professionals immediately