It begins with breath...
If you are here, you are likely searching for some combination of assistance, hope, insight, healing and growth. Let's begin!
Casey MacGregor-Toshima, PhD, LCSW (#85250) is a licensed individual and couples therapist in the Northeast Los Angeles area who believes change and growth is possible for all. She specializes in difficult life transitions, as well as anxiety and trauma. She also helps individuals coping with abuse, assault, addiction or mental illness of a loved one. Casey uses EMDR, brainspotting and other somatic modalities with clients, both virtually and in-person.
Her office for in-person sessions is located in South Pasadena (next to Fiore Cafe). She is also licensed in California and thus able to see anyone residing in the state virtually.
About
MY APPROACH
My approach is integrated. In our work together, we will take a holistic approach which considers the many aspects of living as a human being: your thoughts, emotions, behaviors and physical self. As an example, if you have experienced a traumatic event – or many traumatic events – these experiences have a physical (somatic) component, as well as an emotional and rational component. We will pay attention to all these components.
My approach is also pragmatic. The concept of pragmatism is identifying what works. We will collaborate together to identify goals and consider practical tools to fit your current life. A pragmatic approach does not mean we ignore your past or your future. But we will look for a way forward that takes your specific circumstances and context into account.
There are two other approaches that influence our work together. A relational approach involves understanding that our identities and sense of self are developed through our relationships with others. This approach believes that we need strong interpersonal relationships with others to develop and grow fully as individuals. Finally, a narrative postmodern approach recognizes there are many stories to your life. What is the story that you choose? Has someone else been telling your story? How can we put you at the center of your story?
SPECIALIZATIONS
My practice includes working with difficult life transitions, including career changes, divorce and becoming a new parent. Other areas of specialty include working with anxiety, phobias, and trauma. I also help individuals coping with abuse, assault, addiction or mental illness of a loved one. These individuals are often referred to as “secondary survivors”. Issues facing secondary survivors often include co-dependency and enmeshment. "Walk and talk" therapy in the South Pasadena community is an additional option with our work together.
I have advanced training and experience with the following approaches:
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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Brainspotting
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Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression and Addiction
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Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO) Couples therapy
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Schema Therapy
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Polyvagal Informed Theory
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Mindful Self Compassion
ABOUT ME
I have enjoyed several years of experience working with adults and adolescents as a social worker and therapist in community-based mental health settings. I have worked with individuals and families around issues which include trauma, anxiety, parenting, post-partum challenges, divorce, domestic violence, grief and sexual abuse. Alongside these therapeutic positions, I’ve worked as a social work researcher and community-based evaluator. I've also served as an adjunct professor at universities in the Los Angeles area including USC, UCLA and Cal State Los Angeles.
My educational background includes Sarah Lawrence College (BA), Hunter College (MSW) and UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs (PhD in Social Work).
Finally, I am a parent, a partner, an occasional writer and a long-time yoga practitioner.
CONTACT ME
PHONE
626-657-8543
ADDRESS
1000 Fremont Street
Unit 120
South Pasadena, CA
91030