My mission is to help you feel empowered, self-compassionate, and connected to others. I aim to make therapy a collaborative space that highlights your strengths while exploring the social and cultural context of your experiences. It’s important to me to create a safe, open, and inclusive environment where you’re able to explore and connect with every part of yourself. I’m here to help you process past experiences, embrace present opportunities, and create a future that aligns with your values and aspirations. As your therapist, I look forward to supporting you in living a life that feels meaningful and authentic.
Laura specializes in…
- Licensure
- Professional Counselor Associate
- Clinical Supervisor: Lauren Goldstein, MSW, LCSW, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
- Degrees
- Masters in Professional Mental Health Counseling from Lewis & Clark College
- Bachelor of Music in Professional Music, Minor in Psychology from Berklee College of Music
- Advanced Trainings
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Training
- Sexual Health and the Trauma Survivor: How the Therapist Can Help
- The Gottman Method Approach to Better Couples Therapy
- Emotionally Focused Therapy with Dr. Sue Johnson: On Target Couple Interventions in the Age of Attachment
My Journey
I was raised in a religious Mexican-American household where I was fortunate to receive a multicultural and values-driven upbringing. My well-intentioned family was protective of me and as a result, there was a limited dialogue about sexuality, gender, and romantic relationships. I usually explored these topics in secret, which led to a variety of experiences, some of which were confusing and difficult.
As the years went on, I was able to process my experiences with therapy, supportive relationships, and creative outlets. I discovered empowering ways to express myself and perspectives that aligned with my values. I learned that it’s possible to have loving relationships with those who have different beliefs. I worked in the media industry for about a decade, and most of my work focused on topics such as consent, empowerment, and inclusivity.
As a therapist, I love to see clients increase the capacity they have for loving themselves and feeling connected in their relationships. My therapeutic style is creative, nurturing, and perhaps humorous (to some). I’m inspired by behavioral, humanistic, and trauma-informed approaches. I appreciate modalities that acknowledge intersectionality and enhance the mind-body connection. I enjoy helping clients make meaning out of past experiences in a way that can increase compassion for themselves and others. Additionally, I support clients in finding emotion regulation and communication techniques that can reduce distress. Lastly, I hold respect and humility for the cultural context of any issue. I’m committed to creating a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment for all.
When I’m not at work, you can find me getting into creative projects, enjoying time with loved ones, caring for my plants, or exploring Oregon with my husband and dog.
