My Background

I'm a believer in hard work and determination!  I worked my way through college at CSULB where I received a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication.

Several years later, after a little more life experience, I decided to follow my dream and went back to school where I earned a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology from Pepperdine University 1990.

Working as a marriage and family therapist has allowed great flexibility, creative opportunities, and offered a variety of experiences over the last 25 years.  Whether it is counseling, clinical supervision, family therapy, or coaching, I can’t imagine doing anything else!

In 1991 I moved to Orange / Villa Park and this neighborhood became my place to grow some roots and raise my children. I believe in becoming part of the fabric of the community, so community service and being involved with my kids in school was important to me.

On multiple occasions I have a need to call upon and sometimes find my inner strength which adds to my ability to empathize and understand the struggles and transitions that happen in life.

And, because I believe in what I do for a living, there are also times that I ask for help from professionals who can guide and support me when needed.

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Member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

Member of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
CAMFT Certified Supervisor
Member of Soldiers Project
Affiliated with Friendly Center, Inc

 

Testimonials

I don't know if you remember me. I was a patient of yours almost a
decade ago. I first saw you when I was attending Golden West College
in Huntington Beach. I was going through a messy divorce/custody fight
with a Navy officer. You helped me out so much during one of the
darkest times in my life and I just wanted to thank you!! You told me
that one day, things would be better and that I would be ok. I didn't
believe you at the time but I am happy to say that you were right!
After leaving GWC, I attended CSULB and graduated with a B.A. in
Liberal Studies. My kids and I have moved back to TX. I now have my
teaching degree and have been teaching for 6 years. My son has
graduated from high school and is now attending college. And my
daughter is an 8th grader.

I truly believe that you were an angel sent by God and I just had to
tell you, FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART--THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME FIND
MY WAY TO HAPPINESS!!
Sincerely,

R.R.-George

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I highly recommend Laura to any MFT Intern looking for guidance in her career. She gave me so much clarity, purpose, and most of all a step by step plan to get to where I wanted to be in my practice. There is so much to make sense of at the beginning of the journey to liscensure. I cannot put a price on the value of her guidance. You will not be disappointed!  Thank you Laura!

Kryss Jones,  MFTI

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Coming in and speaking with you really showed me how much I have changed over the past year post Outreach.  I am starting to find my place in this world and figure out where I want to be in my life.   I really appreciate your dedication to the students you supervise. You have taught me so much about myself and becoming an ethical professional in this field in the short time that I have known you. I cherish your time and wisdom! 

Melanie Phillips

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Dear Laura,
I've written this recommendation of your work to share with others:
"Laura has encouraged me to maintain professional integrity in a field where ethics is its core. She has continued to offer a balance of demonstrative support as well as experiential guidance within areas of clinical growth. Laura has also offered practical logistical tips (BBS logs, etc.) as well as advocated for lifelong learning. She sees her supervising trainees/interns with their unique contributions to psychotherapy, and it is refreshing to have our individual talents acknowledged and nourished. Thank you for the warm yet firm guidance.

Boontarika Scripom

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Hi Laura
Just wanted to share with you that I got the job. Thank you so much for everything. Words can't describe how happy I am to have had you as my supervisor and how blessed I was to learn from you. Thank you for being the best supervisor and mentor. You have made a great impact in my life. I don't know how I would ever repay you for everything. You have inspired me to be a great therapist and help those in need and I hope one day I will be a great therapist like you.

Celia Garcia, MFTI