About Us

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1. a great deal of excitement, commotion, energy, or attention created about the confident expectancy that hope promises about the future.

2. a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere surrounded with hope.

As we go through life, at some point we will face challenges, adversity, and uncertainties that give us valid reasons to become burdened, fearful, and discouraged. When facing such challenges, we can hang on to God's promise that hope will not lead to disappointment. So, if in your toughest moments, you are struggling to awaken your hope and celebrate its promise, let us help you rediscover its possibilities.

About Dr. Darden

DSW, LISW-CP/S

Dr. Andrea L. Darden is a distinguished leader and licensed clinical social worker with a remarkable career spanning over 20 years in the field of mental health and social work.   As a breast cancer survivor, her approach to providing services is deeply informed by personal experience and professional practice. She understands that the path to recovery, hope, and resilience is, by no means, an easy one but it is one that you and your loved one have the strength to overcome.

Dr. Darden is the founder and chief therapist of Hope-La Center for Therapy, Wellness, and Training in Columbia, SC which complements her extensive professional experience in community mental health, allowing her to offer a holistic and comprehensive approach to mental wellness.  She is committed to training and educating the next generation of mental health professionals, providing supervision and guidance to master's and doctoral-level interns in her practice.  She is inspired daily by her faith and her family. Her unwavering commitment to positive change and advocacy for mental health services have made her a respected and influential figure in the field.

She has been recognized as a Champion of Evidence-Based Psychological Interventions by both the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT).  Additionally, she possesses various certifications and credentials in trauma-focused therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

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Why people prefer us

  • Expertly Trained Therapists

    Our therapists are highly trained professionals with expertise grounded in both academic knowledge and practical experience. They have a deep understanding of psychological principles, therapeutic techniques, and undergo continuous training to stay abreast of the latest developments in the mental health field. With a diverse range of specializations, we offer comprehensive support tailored to the unique needs of each client, creating a nurturing environment for healing and personal growth.

  • Telehealth Services

    Hope-La embraces the future of healthcare by offering telehealth services, providing convenient and accessible care to our clients. Through secure and user-friendly digital platforms, we deliver professional support and guidance remotely. This approach ensures that individuals can access mental health services from the comfort of their homes, eliminating geographical barriers and promoting continuity of care. Our telehealth services prioritize privacy, flexibility in scheduling, and personalized support, empowering our clients to embark on their wellness journey with confidence and ease.

  • Christian-Based

    Hope-La offers options for therapy from a Christian perspective, integrating faith-based principles and values into evidence-based counseling practices. Our approach recognizes the importance of spiritual well-being in mental health, providing clients with a unique opportunity to explore their challenges, find solace in their faith, and achieve emotional and spiritual healing while fostering hope and resilience along the way.

Free 15-Minute Consultation

Building a strong relationship with your therapist is critical to your success. Book a free 15-minute consultation to determine if we are the right fit for you.

If you are experiencing an emergency or crisis that requires immediate attention, please contact 911 right away. 
 If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm you can call or text 988. You can also visit 988lifeline.org.

Hope-La Center for Therapy, Wellness, and Training