Meet Laura


I love that you are working so hard to find out if we are a good fit or not. I bet you’re really good at doing your research, and perhaps by now you’re driving yourself a bit crazy with how much information you’re finding about the many therapists Chattanooga has! I really like to focus on what works in therapy.


Research shows that the relationship between you and the therapist is the most important factor that leads to change, regardless of what therapy the counselor uses with you. It's important to pick someone you click with. That's why I offer a free 15 minute consultation. It is a low-risk way for you to check out this whole therapy thing, and ask me any questions up front.


You definitely have your options, so doing your homework ahead of time saves you time and money on “therapist shopping.” So let me tell you a bit about me and the clients I’ve had the most success with.

What You'll Learn About Me

  • I like to explain things. I am a lifelong learner and love to share with you why I suggest the interventions or assignments that I do.

  • I’ll give you options and choices about your treatment.

  • I do my best to practice what I preach. When we do exercises in session, I also use these in my own personal life to stay emotionally and mentally healthy.

  • I’ll give you my professional opinion about what is healthiest for you - even if it means you don’t need to be seeing me as often or you’d be better off working with someone else.

  • I have a direct way of communicating and can be sarcastic at times to make a point. I really value your honesty and hope you feel comfortable to really speak your mind about what’s going on in your life.

  • I really enjoy working with Enneagram types 1, 2, 4, 7, and 8. (Of course, all types are welcome.)

  • I respect your time. I do my best to start and end sessions on time, so you can stick to your schedule.

  • I love teaching people and giving away resources to help you teach yourself & eventually work myself out of a job.

Click here to schedule your free 15 minute initial consultation.

Clients I Work Best With

  • Are fed up with their own problems

  • Are finally ready to get some help

  • Are willing to do whatever it takes to figure out what’s going on

  • Want to understand WHY I’m telling them to do certain things outside of session

  • And actually do their homework assignments

Here are my credentials

I started my career in mental health in 2013 when I simultaneously began grad school and a new job at Parkridge Valley Hospital at the Child & Adolescent Campus. At Valley I usually worked with residential kids from ages 5-12 who had been in foster homes and had their placement disrupted many times for various reasons. Some would say these were the "hardest kids in the state."

Starting the marriage and family therapy (MFT) program, it seemed like everyone was specializing in trauma. It was the cool and popular thing, so I naturally didn't want to do that. For the first year of school I was adamant that I was not "on the trauma track." However, I quickly realized that I WAS working with trauma, whether I wanted to or not - some of the most traumatized children in my state. So I surrendered and did join the trauma track.

I started a practicum and internship for the 2015-2016 school year in private practice at Henegar Counseling Center and trained in PCIT during that time. In 2016 I graduated from Richmont Graduate University in Chattanooga, TN with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy and Trauma Certificate.

After graduating, I worked in a community mental health agency seeing mostly children and teens in their home, school, or community. I worked in a group practice for three years until I started my own private practice.

I am licensed in TN as a marital and family therapist.

I have also been certified by EMDRIA in EMDR therapy. This certification includes 2 levels of basic training, several hours of consultation, as well as hours of continuing education annually.

Interested in my personal life more?

I love being married and spending time with my husband and son. We enjoy spending time outdoors: going for walks, picnics, swimming, hammocking, and walking our labradoodle. We are active in attending and serving in our church. ☀️🐩

I grew up in Chattanooga! It's my home, so I don't frequent all the touristy places, but as we raise our child I hope to explore more of the attractions our city has to offer.

While I'm definitely not opposed to medications, I am passionate about natural healing methods. I have done 3 rounds of the whole30 and enjoy cooking healthy, whole foods (and we love to go out for some good tacos whenever we can!). 🌮🌮 (Also I like using emojis.)

I love reading, listening to podcasts, and talking to people about the meaningful parts of life.

My husband and I also enjoy growing succulents and hope to have a garden one day.

Having trouble booking an appointment? Just use my contact form instead.