Get to know Dr. Lawrence
Helping Children, Adolescents, and Families Thrive Since 2008
Hello! My name is Dr. Amanda Lawrence. I am a California licensed psychologist (PSY33439) and the founder of Caring Minds Psychology. Specializing in the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and first responder families as well as supporting siblings of individuals with mental illness. My practice offers therapy to children, adolescents, adults, families, and consultation to parents and schools.
For almost two decades, my career has been dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and families. My specialized training in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral problems, combined with years of clinical experience, allows me to identify the root of emotional and behavioral concerns and implement research-based interventions tailored to each individual’s needs.
Supporting first responder children and families is a passion of mine. As a member of a first responder family, I understand the unique stressors and challenges these families face. My commitment is to provide care that acknowledges their experiences and builds resilience.
I believe it to be a true privilege to work closely with youth and families as a psychologist.
Dr. Lawrence’s Approach
Individualized Treatment for You
My approach is grounded in the belief that everyone has the ability to heal, grow, and thrive. Using trauma-informed approaches and research-based interventions which include solution-focused, family systems, cognitive-behavioral, and behavioral techniques. I tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of clients and align with your family’s values. A key part of my work is partnering with caregivers to strengthen family relationships and provide practical strategies for supporting children’s emotional growth and overall well-being. This collaborative approach is grounded in compassion and clinical expertise, helping families navigate challenges with confidence.
Whether through individual therapy, family therapy, parenting support, or school consultation, my focus is on helping clients reduce distress, build resilience, and create lasting, meaningful change.
Licenses and Credentials
California Licensed Psychologist (PSY33439)
Education Specialist Instruction Credential, K-12, mild/moderate with Autism Spectrum Disorders Authorization (California Commission on Teaching Credentialing #220002837)
Education
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
California Lutheran University, Oxnard, CA APA-accredited program
M.S. in Clinical Psychology
California Lutheran University, Oxnard, CA
M.A. in Special Education, Emphasis: Educational Therapy
California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA
B.A. in Psychology, Minor: Sociology
Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA
Clinical Experience
My clinical experience includes providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy across outpatient clinics, residential treatment, schools, and inpatient programs, addressing behavioral concerns, emotional dysregulation, perfectionism, trauma, adjustment difficulties, developmental concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and social difficulties.
My professional journey began as a special education teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District, conducting educational assessments, providing specialized educational instruction, and developing IEPs for children with learning challenges and mental health needs. As an educational therapist, I supported parents in navigating the educational system to access services for their children.
I completed my APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the Regional Mental Health Center in Indiana, providing therapy and psychological evaluations to youth and adults with complex mental health needs. My postdoctoral work included conducting psychological evaluations providing intensive outpatient therapy and crisis intervention services to youth and families experiencing mental health crises in Los Angeles County.
As a passionate advocate for accessible mental health for youth and families, I have developed and managed a district wide school-based mental health program. I enjoy providing clinical supervision to mental health providers pursuing licensure and I am committed to supporting the next generation of mental health professionals.
Commitment to First Responder Families
Supporting children and families of first responders is a core commitment of my practice. As a member of a first responder family, Dr. Lawrence understands the unique challenges these families face, living with uncertainty, stress, and the sacrifices inherent to first responder life. Dr. Lawrence’s mission is to provide compassionate, practical support tailored to help first responder families navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and thrive at home and in the community.
I Am Here To Support You
Whether seeking individual therapy, family therapy, parenting support, or school consultation, we will work together to help you build the skills and resilience needed to not only heal and grow, but thrive. If you are wondering whether therapy might be right for you, Dr. Lawrence welcome you to reach out.