About Laura DeSantis LPCC

About Laura DeSantis, LPCC

How I work

Hi, I’m Laura (she/her). I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), also known as a psychotherapist. My job is to listen, guide, and support you through all kinds of life moments — from difficult to joyous — providing a compassionate and peaceful space for you to heal and grow. I believe in a strongly collaborative approach, and I know that the only expert on you is you. Come as you are, and I will meet you where you’re at — no exceptions.

How I work

Hi, I’m Laura (she/her). I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), also known as a psychotherapist. My job is to listen, guide, and support you through all kinds of life moments — from difficult to joyous — providing a compassionate and peaceful space for you to heal and grow. I believe in a strongly collaborative approach, and I know that the only expert on you is you. Come as you are, and I will meet you where you’re at — no exceptions.

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Everyone is different, and your experience in therapy will reflect that. My approach emphasizes personal introspection, insight, and self-compassion in order to identify harmful thought patterns and behaviors. I have found that developing an understanding of these concepts in a non-judgmental space is key to creating lasting and fulfilling change. Together, we will find an approach that helps you achieve your goals, whether you’re looking to heal from past experiences or cope with present challenges.

I draw from a number of types of therapy in treatment, which will be tailored to your needs. These include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies. In addition, I consider it integral to my work to be cognizant of the cultural and societal influences that impact us everyday.

I have an interactive style that brings authenticity and a sense of humor to our sessions. After all, therapy isn’t just sadness and tears! My clients have said that I ask thoughtful questions that facilitate new points of view and insight with direct but gentle feedback. They also appreciate that my emphasis on self-compassion is helpful in reducing shame and seeing things through a clearer lens without an inner critic getting in the way.

To learn more or see if we’d be a good fit, schedule a complimentary 30 minute phone consultation here.

Education & Background

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California (License number LPCC5453) and a Clinical Professional Counselor in Nevada (License number CP5510-R). I earned Master’s degrees in Professional Counseling and in Counseling and Mental Health Services from the University of Pennsylvania. I have a BA in Public Relations and in History from Penn State University. I’m a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the National Board for Certified Counselors and completed UC Berkeley Extension’s Professional Program in Trauma-Informed Interventions in March 2021. I also completed the IFS Institute’s Level 1 training in May 2022 and serve as a program assistant in Level 1 trainings. I’m an Adjunct Faculty member of the Counseling Psychology graduate program at the California Institute of Integral Studies, where I teach Professional Ethics and Family Law. I specialize in trauma and cPTSD/PTSD, dissociation, and anxiety disorders, as well as:
    • Identity Formation
    • Grief and loss
    • Life transitions
    • Imposter syndrome and perfectionism
    • The “turbulent twenties and thirties”
    • LGBTQQIA issues
    • Concerns unique to working in the Bay Area
    • And more
I’ve worked in private practice, community mental health, and forensic mental health. My career started in public relations, so I am very familiar with the challenges inherent to corporate settings.

Outside of Therapy

I’m a native east-coaster with a great love for the Bay Area. In my spare time I spend as much time as I can outside appreciating the beauty that California has to offer. These days, as we face the challenges of a global pandemic, I’ve been enjoying photography, reading fantasy novels, watching Star Trek TNG on Netflix (again), and spending time with my partner. 

Whatever you're facing

Get The Support You Need

CONTACT

415-935-0947
laura@lauradesantistherapy.com
San Francisco, CA

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