Explore our approach, learn about therapeutic methods, and understand how integrative healing can support lasting transformation.
Lara Jeanne Jackson
I’m Lara Jeanne Jackson, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in Carlsbad, California, and I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s most overwhelming moments with compassion and clarity.
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I work with diverse clients to build the tools needed to reach their personal potential and live more satisfying lives. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and recovery from narcissistic abuse, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and mindfulness-based approaches tailored to each client’s unique needs and strengths.
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I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel understood and genuinely cared for — a place where insight grows and healing can begin. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to support and guide you. Please feel free to call or email to discuss how I can best help.
Valerie Cassidy
MS Social Work ASW135306
I’m Valerie Cassidy, an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) pursuing full clinical licensure after completing my Master of Social Work (MSW). As an ASW, I provide compassionate, client-centered therapy while gaining supervised clinical experience under the guidance of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In California, this training phase is an important step that allows me to integrate academic knowledge with real-world clinical practice while being supported in enhancing my clinical skills.
My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe therapeutic environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their experiences, building understanding, and developing practical tools for navigating life’s challenges.
My Approach
To Therapy
I believe therapy is not just about managing symptoms — it’s about reconnecting with yourself and creating a life that feels authentic, peaceful, and free.
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My approach is gentle, relational, and trauma-informed, integrating both evidence-based techniques and mind-body awareness.
Each session is tailored to meet your unique needs, honoring your pace and readiness.
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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– A gentle, evidence-based method that helps the brain reprocess and release painful memories. EMDR reduces emotional intensity from past experiences, allowing you to feel calmer and more in control.
2.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)​
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– Focuses on building emotional regulation, mindfulness, and communication skills. DBT helps you manage strong emotions, handle stress, and create balance in relationships.
3.
Mindfulness and Somatic Practices​
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– Integrates mind and body awareness to restore safety and calm. Through grounding, breathwork, and gentle awareness, you’ll learn to listen to your body and release stored tension.
4.
Attachment-Based and Relational Therapy​
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– Explores how early relationships shape your current patterns. This approach helps you build self-trust, set healthy boundaries, and form relationships that feel safe and supportive.
The Heart of My Work
Many people carry the belief that they need to be “fixed” — that something is wrong with them.
But I don’t see you as unbalanced.
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“You are not your trauma. You are the wisdom that survived it.”​ Healing, to me, means learning to meet all parts of yourself — even the hurting ones — with compassion and curiosity.
It’s about reclaiming your inner voice, building self-trust, and reconnecting with your body and emotions in a way that feels grounding and empowering.
Mind & Body
connection in therapy
Alongside my work as a therapist, I’m also a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200).
This background informs my understanding of how deeply our emotional and physical experiences are connected.
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In sessions, I may gently incorporate mindfulness or grounding techniques to help regulate your nervous system and bring you back to the present moment.
You’ll never be pushed to move faster than you’re ready for — everything is guided by your comfort and consent.
Area of focus
We specialize in supporting clients through:
Complex & Developmental Trauma (CPTSD):​
– Healing from long-term or early life trauma while rebuilding emotional safety, self-trust, and stability.
Narcissistic & Emotional Abuse Recovery:
– Recovering from manipulative, emotionally harmful relationships and restoring confidence, boundaries, and self-worth.
Anxiety, Panic, & Chronic Stress:
– Calming the nervous system while developing practical tools to manage anxiety, panic symptoms, and overwhelm.
Attachment Wounds & Relationship Challenges:
– Understanding relational patterns, attachment styles, and how past experiences impact current relationships.
Self-Esteem, Identity, & Inner Critic Work:
– Reconnecting with your sense of self, strengthening self-compassion, and releasing patterns of self-doubt.
Boundaries & Assertive Communication:
– Learning how to set and maintain healthy boundaries while communicating needs clearly and confidently.
Emotional Regulation & Mind–Body Awareness:
– Using mindfulness and somatic awareness to feel more grounded, present, and emotionally regulated.
