Laura Bownds

I work with individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, or the lasting effects of trauma, and it is an honor to walk alongside them in that journey. I strive to create a space where people feel truly seen, heard, and supported, while gently offering practical tools that help build confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of self-trust. My goal is to help others reconnect with their own inner strength and feel empowered to face life’s challenges at their own pace. My experience working with child and family services has also allowed me to support children, teens, and adults who have endured significant trauma and abuse, always with compassion, patience, and respect for each person’s story.

One of the things I’m most grateful for in this work is witnessing people overcome obstacles and discover their own ability to persevere and heal. In sessions, I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Client-Centered Therapy, but above all, my goal is to make sure the time we spend together is helpful and focused on what you need most. I’m trained in several different approaches, which lets me adjust to what works best for each person. I’m especially inspired by the work of Carl Rogers, a pioneer in humanistic psychology, who beautifully said: “People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be. When I look at a sunset, I don’t find myself saying, ‘Soften the orange a bit on the right-hand corner.’ I don’t try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds.” This quote reflects the deep respect I have for every person’s unique journey and the trust they place in me as we work together.

In our first session, you can expect a calm, supportive environment where we’ll focus on building trust and helping you feel safe. I’ll spend time getting to know you, your story, your strengths, and what brings you to therapy. We’ll talk about your goals and what you’d like to gain from our work together, while moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My role is to guide, support, and empower you as we begin the process of healing from trauma in a way that feels safe and manageable.