Hi there, I’m Laura! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in South Carolina, bringing over 15 years of extensive clinical experience across community, residential, and outpatient settings. Originally from Greenville, SC, I have spent more than a decade living in the Pacific Northwest, fully embracing and appreciating everything this beautiful and vibrant region has to offer.

I am passionate about my work and grateful to make a positive impact. I value ethical, compassionate, client-centered care, committed to integrity, respect, and professionalism. My goal is to deliver effective, evidence-based treatment that supports lasting improvements in your emotional well-being and quality of life.

Feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by mental health challenges is completely understandable. Many individuals I’ve worked with have experienced feelings of loneliness, heightened vulnerability, and deep emotional pain due to their mental health. My goal as a provider is to create a compassionate and nonjudgmental space while working collaboratively on your treatment goals.

Qualifications

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Washington State - LH 60598873; First Issue Date: 09/24/2015

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), South Carolina - License # 8006; First Issue Date: 09/24/2021

Education

Marymount University, Master’s Degree, M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2012

Furman University, Bachelor’s Degree, 2008

Clinical Interests and Training

I primarily treat adults across the lifespan who have been formally diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related OC Disorders, alongside providing care for individuals experiencing PTSD and trauma. Additionally, I have extensive experience in treating a range of anxiety and related conditions, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), various phobias such as Emetophobia (fear of vomiting), swallowing difficulties, choking fears, and panic related to agoraphobia, among others. My practice also includes working with individuals managing Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) like skin picking and Trichotillomania, as well as health anxiety, emotional dysregulation, perfectionism, distressing intrusive thoughts, and excessive worry.

I have received specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) through the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF), which equips me to deliver evidence-based, effective treatment specifically targeting OCD symptoms. In addition to ERP, I utilize different Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions for a variety of conditions as well as using interventions from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) paired with exposure treatment. Cultivation of mindfulness and self-compassion skills are also encouraged during the treatment process.

When addressing trauma and PTSD, I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and Written Exposure Therapy (WET), each tailored to meet the unique needs of my clients. My background also includes comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Although I no longer provide comprehensive DBT treatment, I often incorporate DBT-informed principles in my treatment approach.

If you have any questions about my professional training, clinical experience, qualifications, or treatment approaches, I would be happy to discuss further.