Laura Velasquez, M.A., Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #150270

Laura is an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who strives to empower others through challenging times and overcome adversities to improve their well-being. She provides individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy for adults, parents, co-parents, adolescents and children.

Laura earned a Bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences at California State University, Sacramento, a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from National University, and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University. She has abundant experience working with neurodiverse individuals and families. She began working with children who are on the autism spectrum, providing ABA therapy. Throughout her personal and professional experiences, she saw the need for couple and family therapy especially in neurodiverse families.

Born and raised in Stockton California, as a first generation Mexican-American, Laura has a deep understanding for the various culture dynamics and self-discovery.  Laura believes that learning how to blend the culture you are from and the culture you live in by choosing what is most true to your personal values and beliefs is an evolving process. As we evolve into the person we want to become, there are many choices along the way. Reflecting on what emotions and thoughts come up during certain situations teaches us about ourselves. The more we know ourselves, the easier the decisions become and the better we are able to build stronger relationships with others.

Laura uses narrative therapy, emotion focused therapy and structural family therapy. She provides support to those experiencing depression, anxiety, various forms of grief, trauma, as well as neurodiverse individuals and couples. She also incorporates spirituality (for those who would like to) and mind body connection throughout the therapeutic process.