ABOUT DR. LAURA CASTRO, PSYD, LMFT
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #145842
Florida Telehealth Provider, TPMF#1308
I’m Laura (she/they). I’m a San Diego-based therapist who specializes in LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming therapy, trauma recovery, and relationship therapy. I help queer adolescents, adults, and their families overcome trauma, complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and self-esteem issues so they can heal, build supportive relationships, and live authentically. I’ll meet you where you are on your unique journey and offer you the affirming support you need to navigate challenges. Although therapy can’t change the marginalization and oppression faced by the queer community, it can provide a space for healing and empowerment.
The road less traveled: Transforming adversity into advocacy
I’m a queer, biracial, mostly-cis woman, a parent, a disabled military veteran, and a fervent advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I offer a blend of personal insight and professional expertise; however, I trust YOU are the expert in your own life.
My path has been anything but straightforward. In the military’s restrictive “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” environment, I learned the harsh cost of authenticity and the pain of loss. These experiences fueled my commitment to advocacy and motivated me to stand up for those who are marginalized, oppressed, or silenced by societal indifference or hostility.
The mental health challenges within the queer and trans community are deeply personal to me. I view these difficulties not as weaknesses but as understandable responses to social stressors that reflect a world in need of greater acceptance and understanding. My approach is rooted in affirming and compassionate support, recognizing the inherent strength and resilience in each individual’s story.
Navigating my own journey through trauma and discrimination has deeply informed my practice, and parenting children exploring their gender identities has been an extraordinary journey of love and learning, reinforcing my belief in the power of unconditional love and acceptance. This personal connection to the trans community guides my empathetic and affirming approach to therapy.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, family or relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, or stressors related to racism, sexism, transphobia, homophobia, or the rigors of military life, my goal is to provide an affirming environment for your journey. My work is consistently informed by principles of Intersectionality, Social Justice, Feminist Theory, and the Gender Minority Stress Model, ensuring a holistic and inclusive therapeutic experience.
If you’re seeking a therapist attuned to the complexities of both personal experiences and broader societal challenges, I’m here. Let’s embark on a journey of growth, understanding, and resilience together.
please Hear me when I say:
Seeking support is a sign of strength.
I want you to know that reaching out for help is a courageous and empowering step towards well-being. At Affirming Journeys Family Counseling, you’ll find a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and challenges. Whether you’re dealing with family or relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating sexual orientation or gender identity issues, my goal is to support you in finding healing and growth.
Your journey matters, and I’m here to walk it with you every step of the way.
How I worK:
At the heart of my practice is a commitment to inclusivity.
In sessions with me, you’ll find an affirming space where your unique identity and experiences are honored. I prioritize creating an environment of inclusivity and respect, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and needs of each client. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices.
As a member of the queer community myself and a parent of queer children, I bring both personal and professional experience to my practice. Whether you’re exploring your identity, healing from trauma, repairing relationships, or navigating life’s challenges, my commitment is to support you with compassion. Your journey towards healing and growth is my priority.
Therapy with me is…
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Therapy with me is an affirming experience where your identity and experiences are respected and celebrated. As a member of the queer community and a parent of queer children, I understand the complexity of challenges that you may face. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where you can explore and embrace your true self.
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I approach therapy with deep compassion and empathy. I create a safer space where you can share your struggles and triumphs without fear of judgment. My practice is rooted in understanding and kindness, so you can feel heard and supported throughout your therapeutic journey.
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My practice is grounded in attachment and trauma-informed care, recognizing the impact of past experiences on your present well-being. I use evidence-based methods like Emotionally Focused Therapy and EMDR to help you process and heal from trauma, building resilience and fostering recovery.
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Inclusivity is at the core of my practice. I strive to create a welcoming environment for folx of all backgrounds, especially those from marginalized communities. My approach is intersectional, acknowledging the diverse identities and experiences that shape who you are.
More about Dr. Castro
Biography
Dr. Castro is a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California. She is also a registered out-of-state Telehealth Provider for the state of Florida. Florida registration can be verified by clicking here.
Dr. Castro is an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor. She earned a Doctor of Psychology Degree from Alliant International University. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Communication from National University.
Dr. Castro is a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-I and CCTP-II), and is also certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children and Adolescents. She has extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy with individuals, relationships, and families. She is also trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Narrative Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Dr. Castro serves as an adjunct professor in a master's-level marriage and family therapy program, offers training and consultation to other clinicians on affirmative therapy, and provides coaching for parents and caregivers of trans and gender diverse youth.
Prior to a career in mental health, Dr. Castro served 21 years in the U.S. Navy.
Training & Education
Doctor of Psychology in Marital and Family Therapy
Doctoral Dissertation: Trans and Nonbinary Adolescents in Family Therapy: Adult Reflections of Their Experiences
Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Clinical Fellow
AAMFT Approved Supervisor
Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional - Level I
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional - Level II (treating complex trauma)
Certified Trauma-Focused CBT Clinician
Affirmative Therapy Practices
Gender Assessments and Letters for Affirming Care
Emotionally Focused Therapy with individuals, partners, and families
Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
Brainspotting
Narrative Therapy
Internal Family Systems