Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

I expect that you have reached a point in your life where it feels like change is necessary. Maybe you are tired of how you feel or you notice the same difficult patterns showing up in your relationships. Making a decision to actively work toward change and growth can be both exciting and intimidating. I can join you on the journey by offering my expertise and compassionate care. I have an integrative, holistic approach to therapy that is centered in my relationship with each client. I want most of all to see your life as you do and come to understand how we can work together toward your healing and thriving.

Are you struggling to cope with trauma, anxiety, or depression? It's okay not to feel okay. I'm here to help you navigate these challenges and find your path to healing.

I offer brief, solution-focused support. This means we'll look for the unique tools that will help you to navigate life's challenges. My clients seek to explore & resolve issues of trauma, anxiety & depression, self-esteem & interpersonal conflicts and all sorts of blockages that limit satisfying ways of living. Together we'll strengthen your capacity to manage difficult feelings while finding ways to nurture the deep, intuitive voice of your authentic self. My working style is gently direct & highly focused on your goals. Indeed, our sessions will create breakthroughs during and outside of the office.

I strongly believe in the power of compassion and human connection. I have a special interest in treating those suffering from trauma, and struggling with issues of self- esteem, body image, depression, and anxiety. While I utilize a combination of psychodynamic modalities and CBT, my treatment is tailored to each individual person. I believe in the collaborative relationship between client and therapist. It is my goal to provide a safe, non judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, fears, and beliefs.

While there are many reasons people seek therapy, one thought is central: something has to change. Considering this idea takes tremendous courage. It can also bring tremendous reward. Change is not always easy, but it is possible. Therapy can be a powerful tool in this process by helping you gain insight, support, and confidence to develop new patterns and behaviors. As a clinical psychologist, I work collaboratively with people to identify the source of their pain and empower them to resolve it using evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies.

If you are suffering from PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety, or If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, low energy, body aches, unable to concentrate, etc., and more importantly, unable to enjoy time with your friends and family, I am here to help.

You deserve an affirming space for all of your parts to be embraced. I work with survivors of acute and complex trauma who tend to be perfectionists and struggle with self-criticalness. I specifically specialize in working with marginalized populations, with a majority of my clients being women, LGBTQ+, and trans/non-binary. Many of my clients internalize the stigma and shame conditioned by our society's oppressive norms and politics. I help my clients find self-compassion, embrace their authenticity, and process their trauma from an intersectional, warm approach that always emphasizes fostering safety rather than "fixing."

When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry; therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that you would like to change. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, having more fulfilling relationships or simply moving through life with ease and joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change. Those who have experienced traumatic experiences or childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma informed therapy to help move beyond the past.

I am a licensed psychotherapist with extensive experience working with teenagers, young adults, and families. Using an integrative therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed, and other modalities, I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and other issues. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment that encourages healing and growth.

I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.

When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.

Hola! I am happy you are here, ready to invest in your healing journey. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or the fourth time, finding a relateable and culturally affirming therapist is important for the therapeutic relationship. As a First Gen Latina & daughter of immigrants, I have a deep understanding of the challenges we face and invite conversations about cultura, family, and Spanglish in our sessions. Whether you’re navigating past traumas, coping with stress and anxiety, navigating relationships, or seeking to reconnect with your body and emotions, I am here to supporting you on your journey to wholeness.

As someone who’s been through my own healing journey, I have a profound appreciation for the therapeutic process and the changes people are capable of making in their lives. I know the healing power of having a trusted guide and supportive person. I understand the transformation that takes place from being truly heard and seen by a compassionate other. As a therapist, I endeavor to provide these things to my clients. I offer a safe space where you can express your worst fears and deepest hopes, without fear of judgment or criticism. Together, we will work to find relief from your suffering and develop the capacity for genuine joy.

I provide psychotherapy to clients who want lasting change in their primary relationships as well as overall personal growth. This includes parents trying to navigate the sometimes difficult task of parenting. Each individual, couple or family that I work with is unique and I value the process of getting to know my clients as the people they truly are. Some issues I treat are interpersonal conflict, trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, addictions (including those in recovery), and difficulties with boundaries and trust.

Welcome! I'm glad you are here! My name is Dr. Lara Loest and I am a psychological associate working under the supervision of Dr. Inga Simonian. My ideal client is a trauma survivor who is aware, reflective, and wanting to go deeper within themselves. I have an extra special place in my heart for artists and other creatives. My training is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive.

I became a psychotherapist because everyone needs “that person” in their life who will always believe in them, support them, and not judge them based on their past. As we all continue to navigate life’s transitions and changes, there are points where we find ourselves needing extra guidance and support. Whether you are currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can be a challenging, rewarding, and life-changing experience. As a therapist, I strive to be “that person” by providing a non-judgmental, warm, and compassionate environment that fosters growth.

Whether you're stepping into therapy for the first time or returning after previous attempts, it's common to feel a bit overwhelmed by the process. By simply reaching out and being here, you've already embarked on a significant journey toward healing. At FORU, we're dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Have you experienced trauma from a relationship with a narcissistic partner or family member? Are you struggling to have healthy relationships and establish boundaries after narcissistic abuse? Do you find it challenging to have healthy self-esteem and self-compassion after experiencing gaslighting and coercive control? Narcissistic abuse recovery is a complex and sensitive journey that requires specialized support from someone who has experience and expertise. My approach encompasses a deep understanding of the psychological trauma inflicted by narcissists and prioritizes empowering clients to reclaim their inner strength.

Many of us go through life doing our best to appear that we have it together and that we’re doing what we “should” do, but inside we may be hiding painful feelings, self-doubt, anxiety, indecision, overwhelm, and stress. To move forward, we must heal from our past, connect to ourselves in the present, and nurture our strengths to build confidence to know that we can handle whatever challenges the future may bring.