Lauren Rosenthal, LMFT

With compassion and understanding, I strive to meet my clients where they are along life’s journey, providing tools and resources to help navigate the best path forward.

Using a transparent approach and a collaborative process, I aim to bridge the gap between neuroscience and human behavior, thereby bringing to light the reasons we fall into unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaving. Through the practice of self-compassion, the pain associated with these patterns can be processed with purpose and without shame, allowing us to evolve into healthier, happier, and more effective human beings.

Psychology has always been an interest of mine as I found it fascinating to understand and relate to human behavior. I decided to pursue this fascination in my undergraduate studies where I was also first introduced to the power of Mindfulness and Buddhist Psychology. It was during this time that I worked with children, both as an athletic instructor and an academic tutor. I remember being struck by how validation and positive coaching improved the mood, resilience, and daily functioning of my students.

I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University and obtained licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I expanded on my work with children to include trauma-focused care, and also began working with adults suffering from post-traumatic stress. I have extensive training in trauma-informed treatment methods, including somatic therapies and mindfulness techniques, and I recognize the healing benefits of holistic and integrative approaches in providing client care.

I also studied extensively with renowned mindfulness instructors Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield, fulfilling a two-year training program and earning certification as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher. I utilize this training in both psychotherapy and community offerings.

I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group formats. I specialize in healing trauma and easing symptoms of anxiety and depression related to life’s challenges across the span of human development. I use cognitive, behavioral, somatic, and mindfulness techniques, providing tools and resources to combat challenging behaviors and thought patterns. Additionally, I offer parent counseling and coaching using relational and family-systems approaches.

I also provide individual and group Mindfulness Meditation classes, ranging from introductory to advanced levels.

As a native of the Bay Area, I currently live in Santa Cruz with my husband and two young children. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying the California lifestyle. I look forward to connecting with all of you!