Carla Naragon, LMFT

For more than 26 years, I have dedicated my life to helping people heal from the lasting effects of PTSD and emotional trauma. Throughout my career, I’ve guided individuals through deep recovery, led women’s empowerment groups, and facilitated workshops on communication and healthy relationships. My mission is to help every person rediscover compassion, strength, and the natural resilience that already exists within them. I believe that when we approach healing with hope and self-kindness, a happier and more fulfilling life becomes possible.

In our sessions, I use a variety of powerful, evidence-based methods that help you reconnect with yourself and your inner calm.

One of my primary approaches is Somatic Experiencing (S.E.), a gentle process that helps you reconnect with the parts of yourself that may have become overwhelmed or shut down after trauma. Through S.E., you’ll learn to listen to your mind, body, and emotions—the languages of your whole being. By safely releasing the emotional charge connected to painful memories, you’ll begin to reclaim the energy that’s been trapped by fear or grief. This process helps shift old pain to the background, allowing you to live more fully in the present.

Another technique I often use is Gestalt Empty Chair, which is especially helpful for those who struggle with self-criticism or shame. Many people come to therapy wanting to silence or “get rid of” parts of themselves they dislike. But healing doesn’t come from rejection—it comes from understanding. This exercise allows you to face those inner parts with empathy, find your voice, and begin treating yourself with genuine kindness and acceptance.

I also incorporate Didactic Education, which focuses on learning new skills and insights to support emotional growth. You might explore topics like setting healthy boundaries, understanding the difference between pity and compassion, or improving communication in relationships. The best part is that you get to choose what you want to work on—because this journey is about you, your pace, and your healing.

My work is about more than recovery; it’s about helping people feel whole again. Whether you’re an adult, teen, or child, I’m here to walk alongside you as you rebuild trust, hope, and peace within yourself and your relationships.