About the therapist

I am a warm, inviting therapist with a nonjudgmental, collaborative approach. In my practice, I work with narrative therapy, family systems, and mindfulness through a multicultural lens to support and empower my clients. As a former teacher and school administrator, I enjoy counseling educators, students, and lifelong learners. Burnout, perfectionism, and anxiety are common experiences that I meet with understanding and compassion. I am accepting new clients in person in Pasadena, and I offer telehealth sessions for all California residents.
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lauren valencia

I grew up in Whittier, CA, with deep roots in the Los Angeles area. For undergrad, I moved to the Bay Area and attended UC Berkeley, earning a bachelor's degree in Peace and Conflict Studies. I lived in Oakland for many years as an educator.  Moving further up the west coast, I became a pre-k teacher in Seattle, WA, where I learned more about early childhood education and social emotional development. Preparing children for school was a great honor founded in social justice and equity. My career in education taught me that building relationships, facilitating deep conversations, and understanding family dynamics were the most essential parts of my work.

​I earned my master’s degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine where I served on the board of the Psi Chi International Honor Society. I trained in practicum as a high school counselor and group facilitator with Partnership to Uplift Communities (PUC). I continue to work in school counseling for middle and elementary schools in the Pasadena area. Beyond work, I enjoy cooking vegetarian meals, practicing dance and yoga, and hiking.

Lauren Valencia, MA, AMFT
Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, AMFT #157612
Supervised by Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Margaret (Meg) J. Bezucha, LMFT #100194
MJB Family and Marriage Therapist, Inc. 16 N. Marengo Avenue, Office 212, Pasadena, CA 91101

​Contact
626-408-2303
Email [email protected]