"True healing comes when we connect mind, body, and relationships. Together, we’ll explore and create meaningful change."
Lisa M. Naugle, PhD, MFA
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Lisa M. Naugle, PhD, MFA
Research Psychoanalyst Student 301
About Lisa
Hello, my name is Lisa. I’m glad to be speaking with you (virtually). I’m currently a 5-year psychoanalysis certificate candidate at the Newport Psychoanalytic Institute, and I hold a PhD in Education and a Master’s in Dance from New York University. Over the past 30 years, I've had the privilege of working as a choreographer, performer, and educator at the University of California, Irvine. My experience has led me to guide individuals, couples, and groups in integrating mind-body awareness into their lives, both nationally and internationally.I now specialize in trauma healing and emotional well-being, and I use mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help foster emotional flexibility, acceptance, and present-moment awareness. I also have a deep passion for grief work, offering compassionate support to those navigating loss and helping them process and integrate their grief in transformative ways.
My therapeutic approach is deeply informed by my research and training in the systemic forces that shape social, cultural, and familial development. I empower clients to navigate and heal from the complex issues they face in relationships. When working with couples and families, I incorporate a collaborative, movement-based methodology to build self-awareness and foster deeper connection. By combining psychoanalytic techniques with creative expression, I help couples explore unconscious patterns, regulate emotions, and improve communication. My goal is to promote personal growth, self-understanding, and the development of healthier, more fulfilling relational dynamics.
Outside of my work, I enjoy journaling, meditation, and cooking for my loved ones. These activities help me stay grounded and connected to the things I value most. If you’d like to reach out or have any questions, I’d be happy to talk further.
Education & Credentials
- Newport Psychoanalytic Institute
5-Year Psychoanalysis Certificate Candidate - New York University, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development Department, in the Music and Performing Arts Professions Program
Ph.D. in Education - New York University, Tisch School of the Arts
MFA in Dance Performance - Rutgers University
BA in Psychology
Lisa’s Approach
Lisa’s approach to therapy blends her expertise in psychoanalysis, creative expression, and mind-body awareness to foster healing and growth. She believes that emotional and psychological well-being are deeply connected to how we move through the world—physically, mentally, and relationally. Drawing from over 30 years of experience as an artist and educator, Lisa incorporates elements of storytelling, movement, and collaborative exploration into her work with individuals, couples, and groups.
Lisa’s psychoanalytic training allows her to guide clients in uncovering unconscious patterns and gaining deeper insight into themselves and their relationships. Her therapeutic process emphasizes curiosity, dialogue, and reflection, helping clients navigate life’s complexities with greater clarity and resilience. Lisa is passionate about empowering clients to express themselves fully, reconnect with their inner vitality, and build meaningful connections with others.
For Lisa, therapy is a collaborative and creative journey—a process of discovering new ways to move through challenges, embrace change, and lead a more fulfilling life.
Client Testimonials
“If you are looking for a therapist committed to providing high caliber services, you are in the right place!”
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“This is an amazing group of clinicians. I was immediately connected with a therapist who turned out to be exactly what I needed.”
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“I'm really impressed with this group of therapists. I resonate with their philosophy and mission. Great service, good professionalism. Five stars easily! ”
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Lisa’s approach is unlike anything I’ve experienced in therapy before. Her ability to blend movement, creativity, and psychoanalytic work has helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself and my emotional patterns. I came to her struggling with anxiety and relationship issues, but through our work together, I learned how to embody my feelings and have become more aware of the unconscious forces that were influencing my actions.
After the unexpected loss of my mother, Lisa guided me through a period of intense grief while helping me develop greater presence and compassion for myself. Juggling work and family life felt overwhelming, but Lisa's support allowed me to navigate these challenges with more emotional resilience. Her approach has not only transformed my relationship with myself but also improved my connections with others. I am more grounded now and emotionally available than I ever thought possible. Plus, her flexibility with my hectic schedule has made it easy to get the consistent support I need.
My wife and I came to Lisa feeling disconnected and frustrated. Through Lisa’s guidance, we discovered that the real issues were not the original ones we came with. It turns out that our fight-or-flight nervous system would kick on when we got triggered, and get the best of us. It’s hard work to put our armor down and stay engaged, but it’s worth the quicker resolve that we are seeing. Our kids are positively impacted by better communication skills, so our whole family couldn’t thank you enough, Lisa!
