Healing that is

deep,

authentic,

& transformative.

Bethami is wearing a teal sweater and jeans while sitting with her legs crossed and one elbow propped on the arm of the outdoor couch on which she is sitting. Bethami is looking at the camera directly and smiling.

Hi! I’m Bethami Lawson - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over fifteen years of experience as a psychotherapist helping creative, high-achieving, and introspective individuals navigate life’s complexities.

Therapy with me isn’t about surface-level fixes or endless talking in circles. It’s about getting to the root of what’s keeping things stuck, making space for overwhelming emotions, and learning how to move through life with more clarity, connection and self-trust.

More often than not, the patterns that hold us back today were once brilliant survival strategies - coping mechanisms that got us through tough times. But when they start keeping you from the life you want, it’s time to approach them with curiosity - not judgment. I’ll help you recognize those patterns and develop new ones that align with your goals.

I work with thoughtful, deep-feeling, high-achieving people (children, teens and adults) who are often their own harshest critics. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and/or major life transitions. Maybe you’re exhausted from keeping it all together, stuck in the same frustrating patterns, or feeling disconnected from yourself. Or maybe you don’t even know what’s wrong - just that something needs to change. My role is to guide you through this process with curiosity, compassion, and active engagement - so therapy isn’t just a conversation, but a space for real transformation.

Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions, relationships, or confidence - unsure of how to help. It can feel overwhelming not knowing what they need. Therapy provides a space where they feel heard, understood, and empowered - while also helping you feel more supported in your role as a caregiver.

Bethami is wearing a jean jacket, black t-shirt and deep aubergine-colored velvet pants. She is wearing glasses with black, rectangular frames. She is holding a blue and white mug of coffee and smiling directly at the camera.

About Me

I’m Bethami Lawson (she/her)—pronounced like “Bethany,” but with an “m.” I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over fifteen years of experience helping children and adults as a psychotherapist. I’m a cisgender, heterosexual, Jewish woman. Being cisgender, heterosexual, and white-presenting has afforded me privilege that I acknowledge. At the same time, as a Jewish woman, my whiteness is conditional - granted in some spaces while denied in others - shaped by history, society, and context.

Before becoming a therapist, I worked as an early childhood educator and pursued acting - both of which deepened my appreciation for human connection, creativity, and the stories we tell ourselves. I earned both my BA in Psychology and my MSW at UCLA, specializing in Mental Health and School Social Work.

I value authenticity, creativity, and deep human connection. Therapy should be a space where you feel seen, supported, and able to bring all of yourself - without judgment. I bring warmth, curiosity, and humor into my work because healing is serious, but it doesn’t always have to feel heavy.

While I offer guidance, I trust that you are the expert in your own life. Together, we’ll explore what’s keeping you stuck and create meaningful, lasting change.

    • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (cum laude, Psi Chi Gold Honors & Dean’s List) - UCLA

    • Masters of Social Welfare (dual emphasis in Mental Health and School Social Work) - UCLA

    • Certified Complex Trauma Treatment Professional

    • Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider

    • Certified Positive Parenting Program Provider

    • Certified MATCH - ADTC [Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems] provider

    • Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    • Certified Early Childhood Educator

    • Attachment-Focused EMDR [Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing]

    • Brain-Based Coaching (Brainspotting) for Creativity

    • Integrative Sex & Couples Therapy: Innovative Clinical Interventions to Treat Relationship & Desire Issues in the New Era of Sexuality in Psychotherapy

    • Diagnosis and Treatment of Gender Diverse Individuals - Center for Healthy Sex

    • EMDR [Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing] Levels 1 & 2 and consultation

    • Advanced Transgender Care for the Mental Health Provider

    • Narcissist: The Skilled Abuser (Behind the Mask)

    • EFCT [Externship in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy] with Dr. Sue Johnson

    • Relationship Between Sexual Dysfunction Disorders and Sexual Abuse Trauma - Center for Health Sex

    • Sex Therapy Treatment Training Program - Center for Healthy Sex

    • The Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference

    • Gender Odyssey Professional Conference

    • Treating Affairs and Trauma in Couples Therapy Training with Drs. John & Julie Gottman

    • Couples and Addiction Recovery Training with Dr. Robert Navarra

    • Introductory and Advanced Transgender Care for the Mental Health Provider

    • L.A. Gender Center’s Comprehensive Approach to the Care of Gender Non-Conforming Children, Transgender Youth and Young Adults Training

    • Gottman Couples Therapy Training - Level 1 with Drs. John & Julie Gottman

    • Practicum Gottman Couples Therapy Training - Levels 2 & 3 with Drs. Bill Bumberry & Vagdevi Meunier

    • Treatment of Compulsive Hoarding

    • MSW Field Instructor Supervisor Training

    • Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment for Adolescents and Young Adults

    • Depression Treatment Quality Improvement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy [DTQI-CBT]

    • Wellness Recovery Action Plan

    • Motivational Interviewing

Affiliations

Certified Professional Telemental Health Provider [CTMH] Badge from Evergreen Certifications
WPATH - World Professional Association for Transgender Health Logo - Member badge
CAMFT - California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists Membership Badge
Triple P - Positive Parenting Program Provider Badge
Gottman Relationship Check-up Approved Member Badge
NASW - National Association of Social Workers - California Chapter - member badge
UCLA Alumni member badge
Bethami wearing jeans and an orange shirt while sitting on an outdoor couch and holding a blue and white mug of coffee. Bethami is smiling and looking off to the side towards the person with whom she is speaking.

Working with me

I take a collaborative, integrative approach—active, engaged, and tailored to each individual. I draw from psychodynamic therapy, EFT, EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, and mindfulness to help uncover the roots of emotional distress and build a more connected, fulfilling life. My work is always grounded in attachment and attachment theory, because the way we relate to one another shapes everything.

I also recognize that healing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Systemic oppression, intergenerational trauma, and cultural identity all play a role. I am affirming of all gender identities, expressions, and sexual orientations.

With children, I incorporate play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy, using creative expression as a natural way for them to explore emotions and develop coping skills.

With teens, I create a space where they can safely express themselves while navigating growing independence. Confidentiality is key to fostering trust, so while I work within legal and ethical guidelines, I strive to create an environment where teens feel they can speak freely. I also help teens and families balance autonomy and connection, strengthening relationships while respecting developmental needs.

With couples, I utilize Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy. Both are attachment-oriented, research-based modalities that aim to improve communication, deepen emotional connection, and create lasting relationship change.

Across all ages, therapy is a space to examine old patterns, process painful experiences, and build healthier ways of relating. When emotions feel overwhelming, the focus is on regulation skills and emotional clarity. When relationships feel strained, the work centers on breaking unhelpful cycles and fostering deeper connection.

The Power of a

Strong Therapeutic

Relationship

Healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in relationships, and the connection between therapist and client is one of the most important parts of the process. Research shows that therapeutic fit—feeling safe, understood, and truly seen—is a key factor in healing and growth.

That’s why I approach therapy as a collaborative relationship rather than a one-size-fits-all process. I work to create a space where you feel met exactly as you are, with warmth, curiosity, and zero judgment. When therapy feels like a genuine, supportive relationship, deep change can happen. If it seems like we’d be a good fit, I’d love to support you in this process.

Bethami hugging her goldendoodle, Sigmund (AKA Siggy). Bethami is smiling towards him and Siggy is sticking his tongue out.
  • Blond, caucasian child (gender unclear) who is making a heart shape from their hands that frames one of their eyes. Image credit unknown. Reach out for credit.

    Child Therapy

    Children face unique challenges as they grow, and therapy provides a safe, supportive space to help them navigate emotions, relationships, and life transitions. Using a warm, relational approach that incorporates play and art therapy, I help children process their feelings, build resilience, develop coping skills, and strengthen connections with family and peers.

  • Person wearing a black sweatshirt, blue jeans and sneakers. They are fidgeting with their hands on the cuff of the sweatshirt as teens sometimes do. Their face is not visible. From their hands they appear Caucasian, but their gender is ambiguous.

    Teen Therapy

    Adolescence is a time of self-discovery, increasing independence, and complex emotions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where teens can navigate stress, relationships, identity, and mental health challenges while building confidence and resilience.

  • Individual sitting facing outward in silhouette at the base of a heart-shaped cave. They are looking out at a mountainous region in hues of blue-greys. Image credit unknown. Contact for credit.

    Individual Adult Therapy

    Whether you're facing life transitions, relationship struggles, or emotional challenges, therapy offers a space for growth and healing. I provide a compassionate, evidence-based approach to help you gain insight, build resilience, and create meaningful change.

  • Hands of a person with the fingers brought together in a downward V-shape holding a heart-shaped tangle of illuminated fairy lights at dusk. The person's sweater cuffs are visible in the frame. Image credit unknown. Contact for credit.

    Couples/Family Therapy

    Relationships can be both deeply fulfilling and incredibly challenging. I provide a supportive space to help couples and families improve communication, strengthen connections, and navigate conflicts with greater understanding and care.

  • My fees range from $250 - $375 depending on the length of session, and whether services are for an individual or a unit of more than one person (i.e., couple therapy, family therapy, etc.). I will discuss the cost with you prior to the start of treatment. See Good Faith Estimate section.

  • No. After payment, an invoice for my services (often called a “superbill”) can be provided at your request. You can then submit the superbill to your PPO insurance for potential reimbursement as an out-of-network provider. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for reimbursement prior to the start of services.

    For reasons as to why I do not work directly with insurance companies, please click here.

  • Suggested questions to ask your insurance company:

    1. Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?

    2. What is my annual deductible, and how much has been met so far?

    3. What percentage of the session fee will I be reimbursed after meeting my deductible?

    4. Is there a maximum amount per session that my plan will reimburse?

    5. Are there limits on the number of sessions covered per year?

    6. Do I need prior authorization or a referral to see an out-of-network therapist?

    7. Does my plan cover telehealth sessions from an out-of-network provider?

    8. How do I submit a superbill, and how long does reimbursement take?

    9. Will I be reimbursed by check or direct deposit?

    10. Can I use my HSA or FSA to cover therapy costs?

    Tip: Write down the name of the representative you speak with and ask for a reference number for your call.

  • Yes. I maintain a limited number of sliding scale appointments at any given time for clients who demonstrate need for financial considerations. Please speak with me if needed.

  • In our first session, we will discuss what brings you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin to understand patterns in your relationships and emotional experiences. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. We will also review the documents you have filled out and signed prior to the start of therapy.

  • The length of therapy depends on your unique needs and goals. Some people seek short-term support for specific challenges, while others engage in longer-term work for deeper healing and growth. We will determine the right approach together.

  • Both! I offer secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual sessions for clients within California. In-person sessions can be arranged for clients in the Los Angeles area. Virtual therapy can be a great option for convenience and accessibility.

  • Research has shown that virtual therapy is just as effective (and sometimes more effective) than in-person therapy for most mental health conditions. You can read about it here, here and here. There are, of course, always exceptions as well as differing personal preferences.

  • I require 48 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations and missed appointments may be subject to a full session fee, as I reserve this time specifically for you.

  • Yes, therapy is confidential. I use a HIPAA-compliant platform for virtual therapy. There are legal exceptions, such as situations involving harm to yourself or others, child abuse, elder abuse , fiduciary abuse or court orders. We will discuss confidentiality in more detail in our first session. Additionally, please read my Social Media and Communication Privacy Policy in order to further explore how we can work together to best maintain your confidentiality.

  • I use an integrative approach to treatment. My work is rooted in humanistic/relational and attachment-based therapy, meaning we explore how early relationships and experiences shape your emotions and interactions today. I also integrate evidence-based practices including CBT, TF-CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method Couples Therapy and Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy to best support your needs.

  • Finding the right therapist is important. My approach is collaborative, nonjudgmental, and deeply attuned to relationship dynamics. If you are looking for a therapist who prioritizes connection and emotional safety, we may be a good fit.

  • Yes! I offer a 15-20 minute free consultation to discuss your needs and answer any questions about therapy. This is a great way to see if we are a good fit before scheduling your first session.

  • You can schedule an appointment by either filling out my contact form or calling me at 310-241-3994. I will respond as soon as possible to set up a time that works for both of us..

FAQ

You don’t have to do this alone.

If you’re ready to step into a more fulfilling, connected, and empowered life - let’s take that step together.

Reach out to schedule a consultation. I’d love to support you on your journey.

Your healing starts here.

Let’s talk!

Interested in working together?

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I can't wait to hear from you!