Laura Hansen, Psy.D.
Laura Hansen, Psy.D.
(she/her)
Hello, I'm Laura Hansen, a licensed psychologist dedicated to helping individuals find healing and growth. I am based in San Diego, California. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding and collaboration. I see my role as providing you with a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, life transitions or relationship issues, I'm here to help you develop the tools to further your emotional well-being. A little bit about my background: I have provided mental health treatment, assessments, and consultations for over 25 years, working in a variety of settings including inpatient hospitals, military bases and local community practices. I am thrilled to be able to use this online platform in order to further extend my work with people. My foundation of training is with Cognitive Behavioral Interventions. Over the years I have developed a more eclectic approach and incorporated other modalities as well. I stay current with the latest evidence based treatments, and use my training and experience to tailor intervention methods based on my clients' needs. Many times I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) as my primary treatment method. If you're not sure what this is, I'd be more than happy to talk about it with you when we meet. I have also provided a link below if you would like to look up some information before our first session. I have found this treatment to be powerful and effective, and in many cases to work faster than more traditional talk therapies.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During our first session I like to gain an understanding of what prompted you to start therapy and what you're hoping to get from the experience. I'd like us to work together to set realistic and attainable goals. In this way I'm able to offer you an idea of what our work together would look like. The time will alternate between us getting to know one another better and determining if what I offer would be a good match for what you are seeking. My hope is that by the end of this initial session you will have a clear understanding of what to expect in deciding to work with me.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have had the privilege of working as a psychologist for over 25 years. I won't say that I have seen everything, but I have seen a lot and know that people are capable of making big changes in their lives. My training in EMDR allows me to offer a structured and proven approach to healing from trauma and other distressing life experiences. One of the benefits of EMDR is that it doesn't require you to talk in detail about a distressing event, which can be a relief for many. By the time we finish our work together, the goal is to help you feel more empowered and in control of your life, rather than being held back by the past.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I welcome individuals from all backgrounds, identities and walks of life. Beginning therapy for the first time can be empowering, confusing, and downright uncomfortable all at the same time. I offer a space where you can be your authentic self, free from judgment. It takes a lot of courage to open up to a stranger and to ask for assistance, so take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health. I will do my best to make this process as easy as possible and I will encourage you to go at a pace that meets your needs.
About Laura Hansen, Psy.D.
I identify as
Specialties
Serves ages
Licensed in
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
EMDR
I have completed extensive training in EMDR to ensure I can provide this specialized therapy with the utmost care and sensitivity. I will use this structured and well-researched method to help your brain process difficult memories from the past, feel relief from present day negative triggers, and navigate any potential obstacles in the future.
Trauma-Focused CBT
The foundation of my training is in cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT helps you to identify, challenge and reframe negative or irrational beliefs. I use many CBT techniques to help you develop practical coping skills to find relief from difficult emotions. I can help you understand and change the negative thinking patterns that can be holding you back from a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Neurofeedback
I have extensive training in Infralow Neurofeedback. I only offer this treatment in-office due to the apparatus needed for the brain training.