Dr. Laura Ruaro is currently accepting new clients.
Licensed Psychologist in California (PSY #29974)
Degrees:
Professional Doctorate (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology (London Metropolitan University)
BSc in Psychology (First-Class Honors) (Open University)
BA (Honors) in Foreign Language and Literature (English and French) (University of Padua)
Trainings and Certifications:
Certified Grief Counsellor
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Certificate in Maternal Mental Health
Certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (Individuals and Couples)
Trained in “Wait, Watch and Wonder” (dyadic parent and infant psychotherapy)
Languages:
Bilingual in English & Italian
About Me
I specialize in perinatal psychology and am especially passionate about preparing individuals and couples for the often-challenging transition to parenthood. I provide support to parents while promoting a healthy relationship between baby and caregivers. I also often work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and bereavement and/or who are going through relationship difficulties and life transitions.
I am fluent in both Italian and English, and I understand Spanish as well. Having lived in a variety of different countries, I can help others to explore the impact of migration and to navigate the unique challenges of acculturation and interracial, intercultural, & interfaith marriages.
My Approach to Psychotherapy
I work with adults, couples and families from the psychodynamic perspective — looking at the deep relational dynamics that are in the way of people moving forward and living a meaningful and fulfilled life. I have experience working with a wide range of issues including the following: depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, bereavement, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. In addition to approaching mental health from a psychodynamic perspective, I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which I find to be especially helpful for the treatment of symptoms of Panic Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Additionally, I am trained in and in Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy (EMDR), which is used most often for the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
My Approach to Couple’s Counseling
I work with couples from the psychoanalytic perspective, looking at how each partner’s deep wounds can be healed within the context of the relationship. I help couples communicate authentically, so that their intimacy deepens. In my work with inter-racial and inter-cultural couples, I help them to better understand their respective identities. I also help couples prepare for and manage the transition to parenthood. For couples further into the parenting journey, I help parents become more aware of how their respective histories can impact their parenting styles.
So you can learn more about my services and make sure we’re a great fit, I offer free consultations over the phone or via live video chat.
Both individual psychotherapy & couples counseling are available through a secure video conferencing system.
To begin your journey of healing and personal growth with a member of the California Women’s Therapy team, please reach out below.
Contact us to schedule your initial consultation.
Begin your journey with Dr. Laura today 🌱