A Message from Dr. Laura

When I was a young mother looking for a way to make a living I decided to combine my two favorite things: children and physical activity.  I started a small business teaching creative movement classes for young children in preschools throughout San Diego County in Southern California. It was during this time that I realized the therapeutic affect play and movement has on children (and grown ups too!) and a seed of inspiration to someday use play and movement in therapy was planted.

I can hardly recall a time I wasn’t fascinated by human beings often wondering why we are the way we are.  I remember in junior high school asking my parents for a subscription to Psychology Today and I read every one of them cover to cover.  That was the beginning of a long journey to where I am today. In 1990, as a single mom with 3 young children I earned an Associate’s Degree that led to a BA degree in Psychology with a minor in Addictive Disorders from National University in San Diego.  After moving to the east coast I was ready to continue with my Master’s Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Central Connecticut State University. In order to study a theory that had circulated in my mind over many years, I completed a PhD in Marriage & Family Therapy at The University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Since 1982, I have raised five children… three biologically, including a set of twins, and two that grew in my heart; one was fostered then adopted and the other when I fell in love with her dad.  I draw upon the stories and experiences I’ve had while parenting in my work with children and families.  Over the past 30 years, I have had the great privilege to have worked with more than 10,000 children on both coasts.

Time and experience has brought forth a deep understanding, compassion and awareness that I use in my work with clients. Becoming a therapist has been a long journey and beautiful second chapter in my life. I would not change any of it, because I have learned so much about relationships – with myself and others.

In my spare time, I love being surrounded by nature, whether it’s boogie boarding in the ocean, hiking in the woods with my dogs, kayaking on a beautiful lake or snowshoeing through a meadow. Spending time with loved ones, creating something new, and just being still are treasured moments.

Wishing you all the best in your healing journey,

Dr. Laura 🙂