Hi! My name is Laura Richards and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky. I attended most of my education in Arizona and then finished up my Master's degree in Tennessee and I've been practicing for eight years. I love to help adults of all ages who either have a trauma history or are experiencing anxiety or depression.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In your first therapy session, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where your comfort and safety are my top priority. We'll begin by getting to know each other and discussing your reasons for seeking therapy. I'll listen with compassion and without judgment as you share your experiences and feelings. We'll also discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve through therapy. Together, we'll create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Your first session is a chance for us to establish trust and a therapeutic connection. You can go at your own pace, and we'll work together to help you on your path towards healing and greater well-being. Your journey starts here, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
One of my greatest strengths as a counselor is my innate passion for teaching and sharing knowledge. I enjoy imparting the tools and coping strategies that can empower my clients to better understand themselves and navigate life's challenges.
In addition, another valuable strength as a counselor is my ability to make connections for clients that they might not see on their own. This skill enables clients to gain a deeper insight into their lives and challenges, facilitating a profound understanding of their own journey.
About Laura Richards
Appointments
Virtual
My treatment methods
EMDR
I am a passionate advocate for the power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a transformative therapeutic approach that I specialize in. EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy method that effectively helps individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences. By focusing on the connections between thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, EMDR enables clients to reprocess their traumatic memories and resolve the associated emotional pain. During EMDR sessions, clients follow bilateral eye movements, sounds, or tactile sensations, facilitating the brain's natural healing process. As a dedicated EMDR therapist, I am committed to guiding my clients on their journey to emotional healing and personal growth, helping them regain control over their lives and find relief from the burdens of past traumas.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my therapy practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a cornerstone of my approach to helping individuals achieve meaningful change and improved mental well-being. CBT is an effective and versatile tool, and I tailor its application to each client's unique needs. I begin by collaboratively identifying and understanding negative thought patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to emotional distress or problematic behaviors. Through open dialogue and structured techniques, I work with my clients to challenge and reframe these unhelpful thoughts. Together, we develop practical coping strategies and skills that empower individuals to take charge of their mental health and make lasting positive changes in their lives. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe space where clients can actively engage in the process of self-discovery and growth, utilizing the principles of CBT as a powerful tool for transformation and healing.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
In my practice, I employ Solution-Focused Brief Treatment (SFBT) as a highly effective therapeutic approach. SFBT is rooted in the belief that individuals possess the strengths and resources needed to overcome their challenges, and my role as a therapist is to help them identify and amplify these inner resources. I engage clients in a collaborative and goal-oriented manner, focusing on their desired outcomes rather than dwelling on the problems that brought them to therapy. By exploring their goals, preferences, and exceptions to their difficulties, I guide clients in generating solutions and implementing small, actionable steps to achieve positive change. SFBT is a time-efficient approach that encourages clients to take an active role in their therapy, making it well-suited for addressing a wide range of issues while emphasizing resilience and empowerment.
