About Me
About Nancy Willinger, PsyD, LMFT
For nearly three decades, I’ve helped people work through emotional pain, relationship challenges, and the lasting effects of trauma. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California (CA Lic. #MFC38450).
Many of the people I meet have been struggling for years before reaching out. They may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in repeating patterns, or unsure why relationships feel so difficult.
My work focuses on helping people understand what shaped these patterns and how to change them. When we develop deeper awareness and new ways of responding, life can begin to feel more stable, meaningful, and connected.
Therapy with me is thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded in real life experience. This work can be challenging, but there is often room for humor and relief along the way.
I am trained in the Trauma Resiliency Model through the Trauma Resource Institute, a somatic approach designed to calm the nervous system and support regulation of the body, mind, and emotions.
My work with couples has been significantly enhanced through training with Esther Perel and Terry Real in Relational Life Therapy (RLT).
I am also a Grief Recovery Specialist and have led grief groups throughout Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.
My Specialities
Repeating relationship dynamics
Anxiety + emotional dysregulation
Trust + intimacy challenges
Communication struggles in relationships
Availability: I work with clients in person in Studio City and via Telehealth across California.
Therapy Approach
My approach integrates several therapeutic frameworks that help people understand both the emotional roots of their struggles and practical ways to move forward.
Modalities I use:
Relational Therapy
Psychodynamic Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Attachment Based Therapy
Mindfulness and Buddhist Psychology
Intergenerational Trauma Work
I am trained in the Trauma Resiliency Model through the Trauma Resource Institute, a somatic approach designed to calm the nervous system and support regulation of the body, mind, and emotions.
My trainings with Esther Perel and Terry Real in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) have significantly enhanced my work with couples.
I am also a Grief Recovery Specialist and have led groups throughout Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.
Rather than focusing on quick fixes, therapy focuses on developing insight, emotional regulation, and stronger relationships with both yourself and others.
My Background
Originally from Chicago, I moved to New York City at 21 to work in theater. During that time I experienced firsthand the impact of the AIDS crisis and lost several close friends and colleagues. Those experiences shaped how I think about loss, resilience, and human connection.
In my 30s, I moved to Los Angeles and transitioned into my career as a therapist. Since then, I have spent nearly 30 years helping individuals and couples understand the deeper patterns that shape their lives and relationships.
Clients often describe me as open minded, balanced, and easy to talk to. I believe therapy should feel thoughtful and honest, but also human.
Outside of my work, I enjoy hiking throughout Los Angeles, playing pickleball, going to the theater, and spending time with my husband and our adult twin children. I’m also a big dog lover.
Education, Credentials, & Trainings
Doctorate In Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
29 Years Clinical Experience
Training In Relational Therapy
Training In Psychodynamic Therapy
Training In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Training In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Training In Attachment Based Therapy
Training In Intergenerational Trauma Work
Training In Mindfulness And Buddhist Psychology