Dr. Laura Castro (she/they)
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), California LMFT145842
About Myself
I am a queer, biracial West Coast native and settled in San Diego after serving a 20-year career in the United States Navy. During my time in the service, I had the opportunity to travel the world, experience different cultures, and see how individuals, partners, and families relate to one another and the world around them. I believe our relationships shape us and feeling safe and secure is critical to our well-being.
Education
I am a Doctor of Psychology and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I earned my Doctor of Psychology degree at Alliant International University. I also hold a Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University and a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication from National University.
Training
I have advanced and specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for partners+, families, and individuals and offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process distressing or traumatic events. I am also certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC).
In addition to the models of training I provide, I have specialized training and research experience in providing affirming therapy for trans and gender diverse folx and their families.
Other Career Highlights
I am an Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Supervisor Candidate.
I have extensive training and more than 25 years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). I have developed, managed, and facilitated diversity programs during both during my military service and my graduate studies and also offer diversity training and consultation to private mental health organizations, specifically on 2SLGBTQIA+ issues, affirmative therapy, and affirming clinical strategies for therapists.
Additionally, I teach master’s-level students in the Couple and Family Therapy program at Alliant International University.
Approach
My goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling life. This might involve exploring external pressures affecting your mental health, self-esteem, and relationships, discovering unique resiliency factors, learning to set healthy boundaries, or changing behavioral patterns keeping you stuck.
My approach is trauma-informed and integrates principles of attachment, intersectionality, and social justice, with a focus on providing affirming therapy to queer, trans, and gender diverse folx, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I am kink, poly, and ENM/CNM friendly.
I am passionate about diversity and inclusion and believe ALL families and identities are valid.
I look forward to connecting with you to learn more about how I can support you along your journey.
You may schedule an appointment with me directly by emailing [email protected] or by calling or texting 619-387-8386.