How does Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) work?

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

Watching your teen or young adult navigate challenges like ADHD, self-harm, depression, or anxiety can be incredibly overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this journey alone. Together, we can provide guidance and direction, transforming uncertainty into a pathway of growth and resilience. As a parent, it’s natural to feel consumed by worry and fear, but the right support can create meaningful change. Using proven strategies, I help your child regulate their emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and build a confident, resilient sense of self—empowering them not just to manage but to truly thrive.

Hey there. Before I further go on about me, I need to take a moment to surface something about you. Bear with me.... It's important to note you made it to this point, which is the point of acknowledging a struggle, seeing the importance of caring for yourself, and building the courage to reach out knowing growth and improvement are on the horizon. For those who I have had the opportunity to work with, I am humbled by the experience to be part of the journey and chapters of their life. I'd be honored to be part of yours. I have worked with a lot of people from many walks of life, with different life experiences. No two experiences are ever the same. You are the expert in the room when it comes to your life, your perspective, and your experience of it. It is my responsibility as well as privilege to understand how you have experienced your life -- no assumptions and no judgments. Together, we will set therapy goals. Through the process, you are the driver, and I will help with the navigation.

Hi! My approach creates a meaningful, trust-based relationship focused on the best interests of my clients. It is important to me that clients feel seen and receive support through genuine warmth and compassion.

Hello and welcome! My name is Janet Lawrence and I am a licensed professional counselor. I have been in this field for several years now and have worked with a diverse population of people. My primary therapeutic approach is from a cognitive behavioral therapy perspective. I work with people who are experiencing mood disturbances such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I am available to work with you on learning the strategies you need to enhance your life and minimize the struggle. I look forward to working with you!