Laura Sturdevant
I am a holistic mental health practitioner with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance use services. My approach incorporates techniques that build awareness of your body, thoughts, and values to improve your confidence and quality of life. In a world where therapy and counseling can be intimidating, my goal is to meet you where you are in your life and support you throughout your wellness journey. Your definition of recovery is as unique as you are and the hope is to partner with you as you take steps towards this goal. A guiding principle for me is to understand your values. Learning what is important to you will help you find the motivation to make the changes you want for yourself.
First session
I prefer to get to know you and your goals and to focus on what you want and need in our first visit. Therefore, I ask for information ahead of time to help make the most of this initial time together. We then will go through and fill in any areas about your history and life experiences that warrant discussing further. My goal is to help you feel as comfortable as possible and tailor our approach to best match your needs by the end of the first visit.
Strengths
I have worked in a range of roles from housing, hospitals, case management, group therapy and individual counseling. My approach provides a diverse perspective that encourages you to go beyond traditional talk-therapy and move towards wellness in all areas of your life. I combine coaching, problem solving, humor, and traditional therapies to help you heal and recover.
Treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Values guide actions. Not what we want to be important, but what actually is important. The two are often blended which leads to confusion and lost energy. I like to explore, without judgement, what truly motivates you to help propel you towards your goals.
Couples Counseling
Relationships are complicated! It takes more than communication skills to have the desired partnership. I will explore any stuck points and help you each be healthier as individuals to support the overall relationship.
EMDR
Primarily a therapy used for trauma and/or PTSD; however, it has broad uses across chronic pain management, anger, panic, and addictive/compulsive behaviors. It helps with disconnecting pain in the present from memories and past experiences.
Mind-body approach
This can look like mindfulness and breathing, or movement, or simple self-reflection, as well as nutrition and traditional physical health needs.
Strength-Based
To have arrived in therapy with an open (enough) mind takes courage and strength. Within each big step are a hundred microscopic ones that take their own skill. I like to reflect and look at them to celebrate progress of all measurements.
Location
Virtual sessions