My story
Hi, I'm Vanessa Spooner
I'm a licensed psychologist (PSY 24942) and certified EMDR therapist who works with creative professionals (writers, musicians, producers, directors) who have difficulty managing anxiety and stress.
My goal is to help you stop dwelling on negative thoughts and start guiding you to where things feel manageable again.
My journey to becoming
a therapist.
Intergenerational trauma and addiction were happening in my family, but no one ever talked about it. I wanted to understand why I felt the way I did and why people around me acted the way they did. As I got older I turned towards the creative works of others to help me along in my healing journey. Reading, listening to music, and watching TV/movies were so important to helping me. Today, I am grateful to help creative people heal and to have built an entire practice that supports creatives in their healing too.
Although I’ve become a therapist, I have come to accept that I’m human too. I still am on a journey of healing, learning, and growing just like you. Earlier in my life I really wanted to get to a place where I fully understood the world and others and have discovered that we’re all just humans, humaning, together – and that’s ok.
Helping people energizes me.
I love helping people improve and watching them transform their lives – whether it’s the people I see in therapy or the people who work with me at Echo Park Creative Psychology.
The most rewarding thing about being a therapist and business owner is knowing that I made a difference in people's lives.
I have compassion for people and bring heart and warmth to sessions.
I have a natural ability to:
People who know me often say that I am a good listener who can help people through difficult and stressful times.
Our sessions are focused on you.
Sessions will provide you with the space to step away from the noise of the world. In feeling safe and comfortable, you'll be able to figure things out about yourself and express your thoughts and feelings.
It's important to me to stay open to any feedback and questions you may have. There isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. Our sessions will fit your specific needs and concerns.
As a therapist I embrace the following philosophies:
The professional stuff
My Professional Background
I grew up in Maine and went to college in Massachusetts, then graduate school in Washington, DC. I received a BA in Psychology at Assumption College. Afterwards, I also received my Doctorate (PsD) in Clinical Psychology from George Washington University.
I decided to move to California in 2009 to finish the training I needed to graduate from my doctoral program.
I hold a license as a psychologist in the state of California (PSY 24942). I am also an EMDR certified therapist.
Let’s discover how I can help.
Start feeling better and having more energy. Reach out and schedule a free phone or video consultation if you feel like I could be the kind of therapist you are looking for right now.
When we talk, you can let me know what’s going on for you, ask any questions you may have, and get scheduled for your first session with me.
Schedule yourself in our online scheduler today. I'm here for you.