My name is Laura, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I love to meet people from all walks of life and have an empathetic ear. I approach therapy by providing unconditional positive regard to my clients and by working together with them to help them resolve any issues and make the changes in their lives that they want. I am especially good with men and women who are undergoing life changes, have depression or anxiety, or who want to make some positive changes in their lives.
My approach
I always tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the needs of my clients. I use a combination of theoretical approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Reality Therapy. Along with these approaches, I like to help clients focus on the positive aspects of their lives, changes they are making, and the strengths they possess.
My focus
Although I am entirely comfortable seeing adolescents and seniors, I typically work with adults ages 18-65 who are struggling with one or more issues in their lives. My clients range from those who are dealing with changes in their lives such as divorce, relationship issues, or an empty nest to people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health diagnoses and who want to live their best lives despite having these conditions. I believe that people should never be defined by a diagnosis and that we all struggle with big issues from time to time and need help to find a positive path to being and doing our best.
My communication style
I am empathetic and kind, but I also have a no-nonsense approach and am not afraid to challenge negative or harmful ideation and behavior. I always seek to help clients recognize their strengths, focus on the things they do right and do well, and resolve their issues in the healthiest ways possible.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always had a fascination with human behavior and mental health and have always believed that people should never be defined by a diagnosis, life event, or any poor choices they may have made in life. I have been a National Board Certified Counselor since 2002 and have spent quite a few years working in the mental health sector. I genuinely enjoy helping others to make positive changes in their lives and attain their goals.
My goals for you
During the initial intake session, I ask clients what the things are that they most want to work on and deal with, and from there, we work together to set time bound, realistic, and attainable goals. Periodically, we revisit these goals, and if necessary, together we work to update them and make revisions as necessary.
My first session with you
During the first session, clients should expect to provide me with a great deal of information--not just about their mental health but also about their habits, relationships, physical health, and general way of approaching life's challenges. We will look at each of these aspects of the client's life and work together to set one or more therapy goals.