About Me
Hello, I’m Laura.
If you’re here, chances are you’re looking for someone to walk with you through the uncertainty, to help you face the hard truths, and to create a space where you can explore your true self—without judgment or rush. That’s exactly what I aim to offer.
Originally from Venezuela and with a rich Italian heritage, my approach is informed by the diverse perspectives I’ve experienced. I create a space that’s warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental—where you can feel truly heard and respected as we work together.
I specialize in Depth Psychotherapy, a process that helps us explore those deeper layers of the psyche—the ones that often go unnoticed but influence how we interact with the world. It’s not always easy, but it’s a profound path to personal transformation and lasting change.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent years working in social research and consumer behavior analysis, studying how and why people make decisions. This work has given me a keen understanding of human motivations and social influences, which I bring into my therapy practice. Whether it's unpacking family dynamics or understanding how societal pressures shape us, I’m equipped to help you explore the full picture of who you are and how you relate to the world.
Alongside my research background, my creative work in photography has shaped how I view human connection. I’ve seen how our stories are told through expression, and how often, healing comes from finding the right words—or even the right image—that resonates with our deeper selves.
Therapy isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about exploring what’s been hidden, challenging the things that have held you back, and giving yourself the space to heal. My job is to support you in that process—whether it’s uncovering old patterns, building resilience, or simply learning to trust yourself again.
If you’re ready to begin, I’m here to help guide and support you as you move toward growth and transformation. If you’re curious about how I work, reach out—I look forward to connecting with you.
Laura Malandrino
I provide individual and adolescent therapy in Hermosa Beach, both in-person and online, in California.
Education + Experience
B.A., Communication, City University of New York, New York, NY
M.S., Social Research, Hunter College, New York, NY
M.A., Clinical Counseling, California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego, CA
Psychodynamic Clinical Training at Open Paths Counseling Center, Los Angeles, CA
Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, #15514 California
Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, Open Paths Counseling Center, Los Angeles, CA
EMDR training, EMDRIA Approved. Three Rivers Training Center, CA
Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) training. Hendricks Consulting, CA
Yoga Teacher Training. Be Yoga, NY
Member of the American Counseling Association (ACA)
My Approach
My approach to therapy is the result of the experiences that have helped me grow and the profound belief that we can heal, are resilient, and deserve to live a fulfilled life. In my practice, I have supported individuals facing a wide range of emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, and grief. Guiding individuals through these challenges involves providing practical tools to transcend difficult emotions and blocks and exploring unconscious processes.
I use an integrative perspective, drawing from Psychodynamic theory, Attachment-based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Psychotherapy, and Existential Therapy to help my clients facilitate emotional healing and unlearn disabling assumptions and attitudes.
When working with trauma, I integrate EMDR to support clients in navigating and healing from past traumatic experiences.
While we begin our work together, you can expect to embark on an existential exploration to dig deeper into your true self and uncover your purpose in life. We’ll explore how your past experiences and current perspectives shape your reality and use mindfulness to cultivate awareness and acceptance in the present moment. Together, we’ll delve into the core of your experiences, gain insight into your motivations, and develop practical strategies for living a more authentic and empowered life.
Therapy with me is not just about addressing symptoms; it’s about embarking on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. By creating a compassionate and reflective space, I aim to support you in finding clarity, fostering resilience, and embracing the full spectrum of your human experience.
If you’re ready to explore your inner landscape and make lasting changes, I’m here to walk this path with you.
Let’s work together to uncover new perspectives and cultivate a life that resonates with your deepest values and aspirations.