Laura Silvester
MA, C-DBT, LMFT, CA LIC# 114052
Therapy for Life’s Challenges: Supporting Your Journey to Balance and Well-being
Life can often present us with a multitude of challenges that impact our sense of stability and peace. During times of heightened stress, life transitions, and uncertainty, seeking extra support through therapy can be invaluable. In my role as a licensed therapist, I am committed to creating a warm, nurturing, and motivating environment where self-discovery and healing can flourish.
Anxiety, Relationship Issues, and Depression Therapy
Whether you’re managing anxiety, navigating relationship issues, adjusting to significant life changes, or dealing with depression, I am here to work collaboratively with you to foster insights, healing, and resilience. My areas of focus include adolescents, couples, families, trauma survivors, and individuals in life transitions. I also provide specialized support for alternative family structures and the LGBTQIA+ community, drawing on years of experience in diverse therapeutic settings.
Experienced Therapist for Teens, Couples, and Trauma Survivors
My therapeutic approach is compassionate, supportive, and goal-oriented. Drawing from a variety of evidence-based techniques, I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients. My goal is to equip you with practical coping strategies for anxiety, relationship dynamics, and stress management, which you can readily integrate into your daily life.
I have received advanced training from leading experts like John and Julie Gottman, earning certification in the Gottman Method for couples therapy. My ongoing training includes relationship counseling, trauma therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), anxiety management, and mindfulness practices to provide you with the most effective tools and support.
Virtual Therapy Sessions Available
Currently, I offer therapy sessions through secure teletherapy, providing accessible mental health support from the comfort of your home. My background includes experience as a mental health therapist across various educational settings, including public and private school districts.
Qualifications and Areas of Expertise
I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from John F. Kennedy University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California at Santa Cruz. Additionally, I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, further equipping me to support clients in navigating life’s challenges.
Common Issues Addressed in Therapy
I specialize in providing support across a wide range of presenting issues, including:
- ADHD
- Adoption
- Alternative Family Lifestyles
- Anxiety
- Autism
- Behavioral Issues
- Chronic Illness
- Codependency
- Coping Skills
- Depression
- Learning Disabilities
- LGBTQIA+ Issues
- Life Transitions
- Peer Relationships
- Relationship Issues
- School Issues
- Self Esteem
- Sleep or Insomnia
- Stress
- Trauma and PTSD
- Women’s Issues
Inclusive Therapy for LGBTQIA+ and Non-Traditional Relationships
As an inclusive therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate support for the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals in ethical non-monogamous relationships. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their identities, relationships, and experiences. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and cultural awareness, recognizing the unique experiences of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship dynamics.
With years of experience working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and those navigating non-traditional relationship structures, I understand the importance of affirmation and validation in therapy. Whether you’re exploring your gender identity, navigating the coming-out process, or seeking support for polyamorous relationships, I am here to provide evidence-based interventions tailored to your needs.
A Safe, Affirming Space for Personal Growth
Through continuous education and advocacy, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that celebrates diversity, promotes self-acceptance, and empowers clients to live authentically. Your story matters, and together, we can work towards greater understanding, resilience, and personal fulfillment.
Contact for Therapy Sessions
If you’re ready to explore therapy and begin a journey towards healing, please contact me at Laura@LauraSilvester.com to learn more about my services and to schedule a consultation.
Testimonials & Affiliations
I have been working with Laura for several years. And she is surely a part of the board of directors in my life. We have worked through relationship dynamics, career changes, life changes, and more recently our work during the pandemic was key in keeping me grounded, held and supported, and safe. Words can’t describe how invaluable Laura has been to my life and continues to be a therapist that I hold in high regard. She has a great way of listening, getting into my world, and offering tools that have proven useful over the years. I am grateful for her passion and helping people through challenges, and finding ways to celebrate life.
-D.G
When I first started therapy with Laura, I didn’t know what to expect. I had never taken therapy in my life. I had gone through so much in my past from a nasty divorce, to a painful medical condition, layoffs and infertility. I used to feel that I have all the world’s problems. All this was past, when you think you have gotten over your past but you haven’t. I was so lost and I was going through new challenges. Laura helped me find closure from my past. She made me realize that I was strong, the way I handled everything myself then. It was so nice to let go and clear my mind, and talk to someone. I was also going through new challenges when I started therapy- difficulty with my adopted tween daughter, and challenges with in-law living with you during the pandemic among others. It was very overwhelming. Laura listened to my problems patiently, in a non-judgmental way and helped me get through the difficult times. She didn’t want to throw advice, but instead gave me the tools to help me get through. These tools helped me tremendously. I had been such a wreck, why didn’t I take therapy earlier? But better late than never. Emotional health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. I am grateful to Laura for being very patient with me, because I can be a bunch of nerves and all over the place. I highly recommend Laura
-M.B.
Laura helped me for around 4 years. Those were the hardest years of my life: a hard divorce, no job, bad relationships, feeling lots of self pity for a traumatic childhood, COVID. Meeting her weekly was my only constant which gave me a sense of normalcy. With her kind and empathetic guidance, I pulled through. She has the right combination of zero judgement with a touch of silliness at the appropriate time to ease the pain. I never felt pressured or nervous with her. It was just right. I thank Laura for helping me through those years! I only stopped going to her because i moved out of state, otherwise I would’ve continued. I highly recommend her.
-E.B.
Contact
Laura Silvester, MA C-DBT LMFT
F.A.Q.
Do You Take Insurance?
“I am not in-network with any insurance plans. However, I can provide you with a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. You may want to check with your insurance provider regarding the reimbursement rates for billing codes 90834 or 90837. Additionally, I am currently available on Lyra as part of their EAP panel.”