Natalie Laugen, BSN, RN, is an accomplished nursing leader with extensive experience across acute care, psychiatric, and substance use treatment settings. Currently serving as the Director of Nursing at Laguna Treatment Center, Natalie is recognized for her strategic vision, servant leadership style, and commitment to staff development and patient-centered care.

Since joining Laguna in 2022, Natalie has progressed rapidly through leadership roles—beginning as Charge Nurse, then Nurse Manager, Assistant Director of Nursing, and ultimately Director. She has played a pivotal role in transforming departmental operations, most notably improving nurse retention from 146% to under 20% in one year and reducing reliance on contract nurses. Her leadership has contributed to near-perfect Joint Commission survey outcomes and increased team cohesion through targeted mentorship and development programs.

Natalie is also the center’s infection control liaison, interfacing with public health departments and surveyors, and ensuring compliance with state and federal standards. Her attention to detail and collaborative nature have strengthened communication across multidisciplinary teams.

Natalie’s work is grounded in deep compassion for her patients. She prioritizes dignity, empathy, and individualized care, always seeking to create a healing environment where patients feel seen, heard, and supported. Her advocacy for client needs drives her leadership philosophy and fuels her dedication to delivering high-quality care at every level.

Before joining Laguna, Natalie gained diverse clinical experience in home health, psychiatric inpatient care, and emergency nursing at facilities including La Palma Intercommunity Hospital and College Hospital Cerritos. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and maintains active California RN and Public Health licenses.