Clinical Psychology Practice

A space to be seen,
understood, and supported.

Providing integrative, evidence-based psychotherapy for adults and couples in Palo Alto, California — and via telehealth throughout California and New York.

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Dr. Laurel Zappert Banks, PsyD — Clinical Psychologist in Palo Alto, California

About

Hi — I'm Dr. Laurel Zappert Banks.

I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly two decades of experience helping adults and couples navigate life's most challenging moments.

For much of my career, I served at Stanford University's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), where I worked with a diverse range of individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship difficulties. I currently maintain a private practice in Palo Alto, where I bring the same depth of clinical experience in a more intimate, personalized setting.

I earned my PsyD from the PGSP-Stanford Consortium and have a research background in women's mental health at Stanford. I'm licensed in both California and New York.

18+ Years of Experience
2 State Licenses (CA & NY)
Stanford CAPS & PsyD Training

My Approach

Clinical rigor meets genuine warmth.

I believe therapy works best when it's grounded in science and held with compassion. My integrative approach draws from multiple evidence-based modalities, tailored to what each person needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Identifying and reshaping thought patterns that keep you stuck, building practical skills for lasting change.

Cognitive Processing Therapy

A structured approach to trauma recovery that helps you understand and move through the impact of difficult experiences.

Mindfulness-Based Practices

Cultivating present-moment awareness and self-compassion as foundations for healing and growth.

Integrative & Affirming

Meeting you exactly where you are — combining approaches and providing LGBTQIA+ affirming care with expertise in gender-affirming treatment.

Areas of Focus

What brings people to my practice.

Depression

Persistent sadness, loss of motivation, feeling disconnected from life

Anxiety

Chronic worry, panic, difficulty being present or finding calm

Trauma & PTSD

Processing past experiences that continue to shape your present

Eating Disorders

Rebuilding a healthier relationship with food, body, and self

Relationship Challenges

Navigating communication, conflict, intimacy, and connection

Couples Therapy

Working together to strengthen your partnership and understanding

Living with Medical Challenges

Finding emotional resilience while navigating acute or chronic health conditions

Life Transitions

Adjusting to change — career shifts, identity evolution, new chapters

Services

How we can work together.

Individual Therapy

One-on-one sessions tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or seeking deeper self-understanding, we'll work together to build meaningful change.

50-minute sessions | In-person & telehealth

Couples Therapy

A space for partners to explore patterns, improve communication, and reconnect. I work with couples at all stages — building stronger foundations or working through significant ruptures.

50-minute sessions | In-person & telehealth

Telehealth

Secure video sessions available throughout California and New York. The same quality of care and attention, accessible from wherever feels most comfortable to you.

Licensed in CA & NY

"My work is about meeting each person exactly where they are — and walking alongside them toward where they want to go."

— Dr. Laurel Zappert Banks

Get in Touch

Taking the first step.

Reaching out is often the hardest part. Whether you have questions about my practice or you're ready to schedule a consultation, I'd welcome hearing from you.

Location Palo Alto, California
Telehealth California & New York
Currently Accepting New clients for individual and couples therapy

Your information is confidential. I typically respond within 1-2 business days.