Lauren Phelps
I am a nonbinary, queer, and affirming Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based on the Central Coast of California. Movement practices like hiking, yoga, and pickleball are part of how I stay connected and grounded. I’m especially drawn to California’s mountains and rivers, where the natural rhythms support regulation, presence, and restoration.
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As a parent of both a teenager and a young adult— on their own gender and sexuality expansive journeys— I deeply understand the complexities of parenting in today’s social and political climate. I bring this lived experience into the therapy room, honoring the courage it takes to live authentically in a world that often disconnects us from ourselves.
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My practice is rooted in somatic psychology, a body-centered approach to healing trauma and fostering resilience. I help clients tune into their bodily sensations, movements, and postures as powerful sources of insight, regulation, and transformation. I also integrate expressive arts and mindfulness to support clients in cultivating presence, creativity, and self-trust.
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Grounded in a liberatory framework, I understand that individual mental health cannot be separated from the broader systems we live in—racism, transphobia, ableism, capitalism, and colonization all shape our nervous systems and our stories. I work with LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and polyamorous folks to not only process personal challenges but also navigate the grief, anger, and hope that arise in response to systemic injustice.
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Whether you're seeking a place to feel more at home in your body, support in your parenting, or space to process the impact of living in a world that wasn’t built with you in mind—I'm here to help you reconnect with your inner wisdom and capacity for healing.
My Story
As a nonbinary, queer therapist, I’ve spent my career advocating for the dignity, safety, and self-determination of LGBTQIA+ individuals—especially transgender, gender diverse, and nonconforming people. On California’s Central Coast, I’m recognized as a trans-affirming provider and a leader in queer mental health. Many of my clients are transgender, and I’m proud to be known as one of the most trusted gender-affirming therapists in our region.
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My work extends beyond the therapy room. I’ve led trainings on providing affirming care to transgender and nonbinary individuals for organizations such as the San Luis Obispo District Attorney’s Office, San Luis Obispo High School, Cuesta Collage, and local mental health providers. I’m passionate about reshaping the systems our communities interact with. My work aims to make space within systems where LGBTQIA+ people can move beyond survival into visibility, safety, and full participation.
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In addition to my clinical work, I’ve served as a faculty member in the Master’s Marriage and Family Therapy program at Cal Poly, where I help train the next generation of therapists in affirming, trauma-informed, and socially conscious care. My professional journey also includes serving as Executive Director at the Boys & Girls Club, two years in AmeriCorps national service, and over a decade of volunteering—feeding unhoused neighbors in San Luis Obispo and supporting events and programs at the GALA Pride & Diversity Center.
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At every stage, my work has been guided by a deep belief in justice, embodiment, and community care.