Dr. Lauren Franks
Owner and Licensed Clinical Psychologist
License #: PSY 29013
I am so glad that you found me here at Brighter Future Psychological Services. I am hopeful that this can be the place you find the help you are looking for.
For over 10 years now, I have been working with children, adolescents, and their parents, trying to find ways to use their strengths to make significant improvements in their lives. My style of therapy incorporates CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), play therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy to uniquely tailor a format that works for each individual client. I have been certified in CBT, which allows me to really assist people with finding and changing their negative thoughts, and that improves their mood and their actions.
For younger children, ages 3 to 8, and their parents, I am certified in PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy). That gives parents the chance to be taught the same therapeutic techniques I use. When families are committed to doing the work, it is very successful in improving both a child’s behavior and mood. It can strengthen positive connections with parents and establish clear expectations of rewards and consequences.
Aside from formal training, the success of therapy is impacted greatly by the quality of the relationship between the client and the therapist. When we meet, my first goal is to make you feel comfortable and to be sure it feels like a good fit for both the parent and the child. Clear communication between everyone sets us up for success.
In addition to my work as the owner and licensed clinical psychologist at Brighter Future, I value my role as a mentor and supervisor in the mental health field. I train and supervise graduate students as well as associates at this practice. If you work with one of my associates, I will make sure that you receive high quality care.
Email: drlaurenfranks@gmail.com
Dr. Nicholas Ramirez
Registered Psychological Associate
License #: PSB94027803
For over six years now, I have worked with clients of all ages and walks of life. Some struggling with feelings that were not so pleasant, others wanting to understand how and why they came to be where they are in life, and so many feelings in between. At the root of pain, I believe there lies a disconnect within ourselves that is often hard to repair on our own. As a therapist, I value meaningful connection with my clients, unconditional understanding, and non-judgement.
I am trained and often work from a psychodynamic orientation. That means my approach to therapy involves knowing, understanding, and empathetically engaging with people who are experiencing life in all its wonders and hardships. I value the relationship I have with a client above all else and offer strategic techniques to optimize wellness. Working under the supervision of Dr. Lauren Franks, I also frequently bring CBT interventions into my sessions to help clients see clear connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
My work as a child and adolescent therapist has included school-based settings, large community mental health organizations, and now the private practice here at Brighter Future. I greatly value the chance to work with people early in development, to heal and prepare them in ways that lend toward a fulfilling and successful future. I also find it impactful to stay in ongoing contact with the parents and caregivers of my child clients, so support continues outside our sessions.
Email: nicholas.ramirez.bf@gmail.com
Nicole Garcia, M.A.
Registered AMFT and APCC
AMFT #156898 | APCC #20176 | Supervised by Dr. Lauren Franks, PSY 29013
Our past and present challenges can be difficult to face and hard to make sense of at times. I strongly believe that we do not have to go through these challenges alone, and that therapy can be a tool for learning and healing.
I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, and I received my master’s degree in clinical psychology. My clinical experience includes helping adults navigate a wide range of life stages, as well as working with children ages 4 to 18 and their families.
I am passionate about working with children and helping them process difficult, often overwhelming feelings, and about helping them learn to name and express what they need. In session I will often use games, art, physical movement, music, and imaginative play therapy, because sometimes the little ones do not have the words yet.
My style of therapy always involves building a connection with my clients while getting to know their strengths, interests, and personalities. Therapy is not one size fits all. For parents and guardians, I understand that seeking therapy for your child can be a challenging experience, and I hope to help you feel at ease and included in the process.
Email: nicole.garcia.bf@gmail.com
Cherry Elbermawy, M.A.
Associate Therapist Trainee
Advanced doctoral trainee, Azusa Pacific University | Supervised by Dr. Lauren Franks, PSY 29013
Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I value the courage it takes to begin. My hope is that therapy gives you a safe, supportive, and meaningful space where your experiences can be heard and you can feel supported in your growth.
I am an advanced doctoral trainee studying Clinical Psychology at Azusa Pacific University, where I have trained in both community mental health and university counseling settings. My clinical experience has included working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a wide range of challenges.
I work from an integrative perspective, drawing on personalized, supportive approaches while also using techniques and solution-focused strategies to meet each client’s needs. We may explore the deeper roots of your struggles and also work together on practical skills that help day to day.
Born in Egypt and raised in the United States, I bring a multicultural lens to my work and value how culture, identity, and lived experience shape who we are. Above all, I believe healing and change happen through genuine connection with another person.
