Laura Franco, M.A., LAMFT
Laura Franco, M.A., Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Creating Your Safe Space for Healing
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in couples counseling and also work with individuals with mental health or relationship challenges. I have specialized training in Emotion Focused Therapy which is based in attachment theory. I mainly utilize techniques from EFT, CBT, Gottman, mindfulness and solution focused models. I am always considering the influence of various life contexts (family, community, cultural, spiritual) clients bring to our sessions. Tell me about yours.
Areas of Expertise
- anxiety
- depression
- self-esteem challenges
- life adjustments
- relationship endings
- infidelity
- trauma
- grief
- communication/boundary issues,
- rebuilding connection/trust.
I also have experience with diverse cultural backgrounds and LGBTQ+.
Working With Couples
I use Emotion Focused Therapy (shown by research to be one of the most effective) and Gottman methods. Let’s get your needs met. With couples, I work on sharing our triggers/fears and unmet needs to increase empathy and understanding for our partner. I prioritize identifying the negative cycle that partners often tend to get stuck in to reduce disconnection and conflict. We explore attachment styles and unmet needs that contribute to how you see yourself and your partner.
Working with Individuals
With individuals, we can explore your attachment style/triggers and boundary/communication styles and how those can keep you feeling stuck or disconnected in relationships. We also explore your past relationships and attachment injuries that cause fear and anxiety when trying to connect with someone. I utilize research based counseling models to ensure my clients are receiving the most effective and efficient help available.
My Unique Background
After 12 years as a massage therapist helping people heal their bodies, I eventually decided to heal minds and hearts too. As a result, this experience gave me special skills:
- A welcoming presence
- Deep empathy and sensitivity
- Breathing and mindfulness techniques for achieving calm
Furthermore, I want to help you find emotional balance and center yourself in any moment. In particular, this holistic approach benefits clients seeking anxiety and stress management.
About Me
I grew up in Arizona with a lifelong passion for helping people. Meanwhile, in my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling, visiting art exhibitions, trying new restaurants, watching movies, and playing with my pets.
I’m so glad you are taking steps towards finding a therapist that is a good fit for you. One of the most important aspects of therapy is you feeling comfortable and safe with the person you are working with, and I hope to create that safe space for you. Let’s explore your experiences and challenges and see how I can help you achieve your goals. I’m available by video call via Simple Practice. I work with clients across the state of Arizona. I’m available weekdays except Wednesday.
Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, National University
