Laura Hernandez
Licensed Clinical Social Worker - CA
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It's a pleasure to meet you!
I am a bi-racial (Korean-Salvadorian) Licensed Clinical Social Worker who grew up with immigrant parents. My desire to end my own intergenerational trauma led me to go beyond evidence-based practices and understand how to thrive as a marginalized woman of color while maintaining my values. I love working with adults navigating life changes, their mental health, societal injustices, and the end of their intergenerational trauma. I have certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Enhanced Illness Management and Recovery, and additional training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and treatment for Complex Traumatic Stress Disorders (PRISM).
What to expect at your session
When you book a session or make a referral, you can anticipate a respectful, dignified experience where connection and understanding are essential. I meet people where they're at and support their bravery as they do difficult things and make changes in their lives. I am passionate about creating a safe, professional environment where clients are empowered as the experts of their own lives, with guidance tailored to what matters to them.
I speak directly and respectfully but humor is also an important part of our healing process because just like trauma, healing is relational. I acknowledge the power dynamics that exist in clinician-client relationships and ensure that we are collaborating as a team to achieve your goals.
My Strengths
As a first generation, first-born, bi-racial woman, I have always wanted to be understood by my providers on a deeper level. I strive to provide therapy for people who want someone who will get them - especially in situations with other providers have been dismissive. My greatest strengths as a provider is my anti-oppressive and BIPOC perspective and extensive experience and training serving BIPOC, 2SLGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities.
Specialties
Anxiety
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Trauma
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Addiction
Grief
Racial trauma
Sexual Abuse
Treatment Methods
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
I offer a therapeutic modality called Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP): the use of ketamine as a complement to psychotherapy. I deliver KAP in my practice in partnership with an organization called Journey Clinical, which has a specialized medical team that determines eligibility for KAP, prescribes ketamine lozenges, & supports me in monitoring outcomes. If interested, book a consultation with me and we will discuss eligibility and next steps.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am certified by the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies. I offer structured and unstructured CBT which is an evidence-based form of therapy proven to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use.
Enhanced-Illness and Recovery Management (E-IMR)
I am certified in Enhanced-Illness and Recovery Management, which is an evidence-based intervention for addiction. This is a very helpful methodology for individuals who want to find a path towards their best future.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
I have received extensive training in DBT for treating people with psychosis and personality disorders. I use DBT in my practice for individuals with any diagnosis that want to develop skills that incorporate their body in managing emotions and tolerating distress. When my client have issues that may not have an immediate solution, DBT is useful in helping them maintain the quality of life they deserve.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy As a bi-racial woman, I can understand how multiple layers of oppression can affect someone. I am always practicing culturally sensitive therapy because I treat the whole person; where they are now and the layers of experiences, values, and identities that make us who we are.
Motivational Interviewing
I love motivational interviewing because it is effective when the therapist truly believes that the client is always trying their best to live, survive, or find purpose and/or joy. I use motivational interviewing in every session when I listen with compassion and respond with respect.
More information
MSW (Master of Social Work) at University of Southern California
License type: License in Clinical Social Work (California)
Gender: Female
Ethnicity: Bi-racial Korean and Salvadorian
Languages: English
In-network with the following insurances: United Healthcare, Optum, Oxford, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, Cigna, Kaiser NorCal, Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Blue Cross Blue Shied of Massachusetts, and Medicare
(213) 531-0291