Therapists answer…

For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?

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Laura Malandrino
Individual and Couples Psychotherapist
Online & In-Person
You’ve spent years holding it all together, but inside, something feels off. Maybe it looks like high-functioning anxiety, low motivation, or feeling emotionally flat. Maybe it’s a quiet sense of “something is missing,” even though life appears full. Maybe you're in the midst of a life transition — a shift in identity, purpose, relationships, or stage of life — and you're not sure who you are anymore. You’ve tried to think your way through it. You’ve read the books, stayed busy, pushed forward. But deep down, you know this requires something different—something more profound. If you resonate with any of this, you’re not alone. I specialize in working with adults who are ready to slow down and explore the inner landscape that often gets ignored — the parts of ourselves that don’t show up on the surface, but shape everything underneath. My clients are thoughtful, self-aware, and deeply tired of staying stuck. They’re often navigating: A midlife crisis or major life transition Menopause or identity shifts related to aging Low self-worth, shame, or chronic people-pleasing Overthinking and high internal pressure Feeling disconnected from their joy, purpose, or body A sense of numbness, loss, or emotional confusion Many have spent years succeeding on the outside while feeling disconnected or unfulfilled inside. They don’t want band-aid solutions — they want real, lasting change. My approach is depth-oriented, relational, and insight-driven. I don’t believe in quick fixes. Therapy with me is about gently peeling back the layers — roles, expectations, early attachment patterns — to reconnect with the core of who you are. My work is rooted in: Attachment-Based Therapy – to help you understand how early relationships shape emotional patterns Depth Psychology – for uncovering unconscious beliefs and internal narratives EMDR Therapy – to process trauma and create new emotional pathways Psychodynamic Therapy & Mindfulness – to integrate past and present with awareness and compassion Together, we create a space where you can be deeply seen and gently challenged — a space where real transformation becomes possible. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Counseling from the California School of Professional Psychology and have advanced training in EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, trauma-informed care, and somatic practices. I am multilingual (English, Italian, and Spanish) and bring a culturally inclusive lens to my work. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked in creative industries and international environments — so I understand the pressures of fast-paced, high-expectation lives, and the emotional cost that comes with constantly "performing." Ready to begin? I see clients in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and virtually across California. If you're seeking deeper meaning, emotional relief, or simply a safe space to rediscover yourself, I’d be honored to walk with you. 📍 In-person and Telehealth Available 🌐 www.lauramalandrino.com 📧 [email protected] 📞 (747) 334-2972
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Alexis Gade
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online & In-Person
Hello, my name is Alexis Gade and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I strive to offer clients a safe and compassionate environment to explore barriers they might be facing that are preventing them from living to their full potential as well as identifying strengths to achieve their goals. I utilize strategies from various modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to create a tailored, individualized approach to therapy. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety and OCD. Through therapy, I work with clients to help them accept their anxieties rather than fight against them in order to live life according to their values. Through acceptance and mindfulness, clients can work on getting unstuck from their thoughts and be more present in their daily life. Another area of focus of mine is helping women and mothers during challenging life transitions, including the prenatal and postpartum periods. While these periods can include joy and excitement, it can also be a time of vulnerability and change. I am a believer that all changes, even positive changes, can be challenging and stressful. I’m here to walk you through these changes and help explore the many different facets of motherhood.  Additionally, I have experience working with military families, including working with service members, spouses, and children. I help families manage stress and anxiety related to navigating the deployment cycle. I look forward to working with you on your healing journey in a welcoming, non judgmental environment. I am currently accepting new clients.  
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