Welcome, I’m glad you’re here
My name is Laurel; I’m a therapist, human, and mama.
I believe people act the best they know how to based on what they have learned from their early life experiences. If we look at how current thought patterns and behaviors function to keep you safe, there is a lot of room to explore how compassionate change is possible.
As a therapist, I use a depth-oriented, relational, and trauma-informed approach. This means we work together to explore both the conscious and unconscious mind to see how it has manifested in your behavior. With this increased self-awareness, I support you in looking at where you have space to show up in ways that are more beneficial to getting what you want out of life. Some of my favorite therapeutic modalities include Attachment theory, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I also believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, and I will first and foremost work to attune to you and your individual needs.
My commitment is to offer you a nonjudgmental space rooted in warmth and curiosity.
As a human, I started my therapeutic journey when I was 15. I know what it feels like to experience inner and relational turbulence. My first relationship experiences were a disaster, and I grew up in circumstances that led to CPTSD. This drove me, however, to endlessly study how to cultivate a connection to the self and others that is healthy and lasting. I have dedicated my time to this work because human connection is what I value most.
As a mother, I see my relationship with my son as an ever-evolving invitation to accept, trust, and be present with what is. Taking things as they come and releasing the need to control or anticipate what the future might bring is an ongoing practice for me; perhaps you can relate.
When I’m not working, I enjoy being active outdoors and quality time with my son, partner, friends, and two tabby kitties.
A space to feel seen and heard
〰️
A space to feel seen and heard 〰️
EDUCATION
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Pacifica Graduate Institute
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
University of California, Santa Cruz
EXPERIENCE
Mustard Seed Ranch: Equine-assisted therapist for groups of at-risk youth
The Liberation Institute: Therapist Trainee
Counseling West: Therapist Trainee
Laurel Tree Yoga: Owner, Instructor
Prison Yoga + Meditation: Senior Yoga Instructor
Los Angeles Unified School District: Yoga Instructor
CERTIFICATIONS + TRAININGS
EMDR Training: Sonoma Institute, 2024
200 hr E-RYT: Yoga Works, 2015
Meditation Training: UCLA Mindfulness Awareness Research Center, 2017
Introduction to Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy: Counseling West, 2022
Trauma-Informed Mindfulness Facilitator: Prison Yoga + Meditation 5013c, 2016
LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Therapy Practitioner: Liberation Institute, 2022
Reiki 1&2, 2020