Ms. Laura Gardner, MA, LMFT

(she/her/hers)
Preferred Name: Laura

About Me

With nearly 20 years of experience as a holistic psychotherapist, I specialize in helping clients overcome perfectionism, anxiety, and complex trauma. My goal is to support you in healing past wounds, managing stress effectively, getting unstuck or building stability, and fostering self-discovery so you can feel whole, empowered, and capable of creating a fulfilling life. I also work with interracial and interfaith couples to navigate challenges related to cultural differences, communication, and values. My approach is holistic, compassionate and collaborative, tailored to your unique needs. With an eclectic practice, I integrate somatic, holistic, psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, and gestalt approaches to support healing and growth. As an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, I also specialize in attachment-focused EMDR (AF-EMDR), helping clients process trauma and build stronger emotional connections. Passion for my work combines my interests in the body/mind connection, love of diverse cultures, and fascination with human nature. I love what I do and truly respect my clients' willingness to bring their inner world to the forefront. Let's talk so you can begin the journey to feel better.

Education & Experience

As therapists, we are our own instrument, and all of my life experiences have contributed to my work. Licensed in both California and Oregon, I hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology with a Somatic focus from John F. Kennedy University. I completed my Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) training at the Parnell Institute. My background includes over 12 years studying under Marsha Hiller, LMFT, in Berkeley, CA and working with trauma survivors at Rape Trauma Services. Before transitioning to therapy, I spent 19 years in academia, holding various administrative roles, including program manager for various global and diversity-focused initiatives. My work and leisure pursuits have taken me to Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and the U.S., where I also explored my passion for writing as an amateur music writer. I have additional training in massage and anatomy, years of yoga practice, and a deep appreciation for both Eastern and Western approaches to health. Influenced by thinkers such as Carl Rogers, Virginia Satir, Geneen Roth, and Brené Brown, I view personal growth as a lifelong journey. I bring this dedication and curiosity to my work with clients from diverse industries and backgrounds.

Professional & Volunteer Affiliations

I am a member of the following professional organizations: California Association of MFTs (CAMFT); East Bay chapter of CAMFT; The Parnell Institute; and EMDRIA.

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Attachment Disorders
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Birth Trauma/Pregnancy Loss
  • Depression
  • Family Issues
  • Headaches/Migraines
  • Marriage/Relationship Issues
  • Mood Disorders
  • Motor Vehicle Accidents
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders
  • Phobias
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Race, Culture, Ethnicity Issues
  • Self-Harm
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Somatic Issues
  • Spirituality
  • Stress Management
  • Survivor's Guilt
  • Traumatic Incident

Population Served

  • Adults
  • BIPOC
  • Couples
  • First Responders
  • Immigrants
  • LGBTQ+
  • Veterans/Military

Language

  • English

Insurance


Superbill for out-of network reimbursement. I am currently not taking insurance clients, so if you have Anthem or Aetna, you would need to sign a "Consent to Self-Pay" form.