Change in your life and relationships are possible. And certainly can be easier when you have someone to work alongside you to create the changes you want.

Whether you’re experiencing problems with depression, anxiety, identity, stress, life transitions or difficulties in your relationships, I aim to create a safe space to process and explore the areas in your life that need healing.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in the Sacramento area, I believe that through bringing a compassionate awareness to the dynamics that play out, we can more effectively make choices that empower us to live a more fulfilling life. As well as have more satisfying relationships.

I use research-based approaches such as: Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness and EMDR for Trauma. In fact, these methods help clients improve communication, manage anxiety, heal from trauma, and strengthen relationships.

Through a variety of different modalities and interventions, together we can create a plan that best works for you. Further, my clients would describe me as authentic, warm, direct, kindhearted, and humorous.

I provide therapy for:

• Couples seeking help for infidelity, addiction, trauma, difficulties with sex, conflict management, and general communication concerns.
• Individuals who look to deepen awareness, build new skills, and find personal and relational growth
• Individuals going through life transitions or struggling with anxiety or depression
• High-achieving professionals and LGBTQIA Informed

My theoretical framework tends to focus on a combination of humanistic, existential, and psychodynamic approaches, with support using cognitive behavioral interventions. With that, my goal is to treat the whole person in helping you achieve your therapeutic goals. Additionally, I work together with couples to develop new skills and process past hurts to help them build a stronger connection than ever before using primarily the Gottman Method but also integrating mindfulness and attachment theories.

Previously, I earned my Masters in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco, and have 5 years of experience in treating and supporting adults with various concerns and issues, such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance use concerns, PTSD, etc. Furthermore, I’ve worked with couples for 3 years supporting them to develop healthier communication skills, and working through a variety of issues such as high conflict, infidelity, issues related to sex, etc. I’m trained in Gottman Level 2 and have additional training in EMDR.

I became a therapist because my own journey through therapy revealed the transformative power of personal development and growth. However, with the understanding that our personal work is never truly complete, I find it profoundly meaningful to walk alongside others as they navigate life’s personal and relational challenges.

There’s something profoundly moving about being entrusted with someone’s story and experience, and witnessing another’s growth is a privilege I deeply value. Additionally, my style as a therapist is caring and authentic, straightforward, but with a bit of humor when the moment calls for it.”

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my partner and step-daughter, soaking up the outdoors, and staying active through yoga, hiking, backpacking, and cycling. My pets also play an important role in my life and bring me a lot of joy. And when it’s time to unwind, I enjoy recharging by watching the latest true crime documentary or catching reruns of 30 Rock.

“So, I’ll be real – I’m not a big fan of counseling. I mean, all that eye contact, asking how you feel, it’s just not my thing. But then my fiancé dragged me to meet Laura, our counselor. I was sure it would be a waste of time, especially with my better half watching.

But man, was I wrong! Laura totally got me from the get-go. She didn’t just ask why I felt a certain way, she actually listened and talked to us like a friend.

It felt like she genuinely cared about both of us, not just going through the motions.

I can’t even put into words how grateful I am that my fiancé pushed me to meet her. Laura has this way of seeing right through to what’s really going on, and she’s helped us so much already. So, if you’re hesitant about couples counseling like I was, give Laura a shot. You won’t regret it!”
J.S.