Laurel Bourgeois
About
I grew up in the Cleveland area and then came to Michigan where I completed my Bachelor's degree at Hope College where I studied social work. While in school I completed a field placement working as a probation officer and spent time in Mental Health and Sobriety Treatment Court. After graduation, my now husband and I moved back to Cleveland where I completed my Masters in Social Work with a specialization in Health Studies at Case Western Reserve University. While in school I completed internships with the Cleveland Clinic in their Adolescent Psychiatric Unit as well as an interdisciplinary internship at Care Alliance. Following graduation, I worked in admissions for psychiatric and detox services for six years. I then wanted to expand my skill set and pursued a position providing therapy to health care employees as an EAP counselor at a local hospital system. I found that I really love the opportunity to get to know my clients and to walk alongside them on their journey.
While in school I completed a field placement working as a probation officer and spent time in Mental Health and Sobriety Treatment Court.
First session
I typically utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as DBT in my practice. During the first session we will explore your past and what led to you entering therapy. From there we will work together to set goals to optimize our journey together. We will work to challenge your negative thoughts and strengthen your confidence in tackling difficult obstacles moving forward.
Strengths
Given my wide range of experiences in the field I feel that I have had the opportunity to gain exposure to working with many different types of clients. In my sessions, I am extremely empathetic and supportive but will challenge you when it is warranted. One of my biggest passions is working with fellow parents. As a parent myself, I feel that I can identify with my client's and their challenges on a daily basis.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients are mothers quietly battling depression, anxiety, and trauma—exhausted before the day begins, forcing smiles while feeling empty, haunted by thoughts of failing their kids. They carry the silent grief of infertility, the isolating fog of postpartum, or even the crushing weight of endless parenting demands.They need a safe space to be fully seen, gentle tools to calm the inner chaos, and permission to heal without guilt. Their deepest wish: to feel steady, warm, and truly alive again—to laugh freely with their children, trust themselves as moms, and show up present instead of just surviving.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a powerful tool used in therapy to challenge negative and anxious thought patterns, promoting positive change in individuals. By utilizing CBT techniques during our session, my clients can learn to identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and improve their emotional well-being. Through a collaborative and structured approach, we will work together to empower clients to take an active role in improving their mental health and overcoming challenges. With my support, individuals can learn valuable skills to manage stress, boost self-esteem, and enhance overall quality of life.
Grief Therapy
During grief therapy sessions, I will provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to reflect on their loss. I will provide emotional validation, recognizing the depth of the individual's feelings. In therapy, unhealthy behavior patterns related to grief are identified and addressed. The process of grieving is openly discussed, helping individuals navigate through their emotions and thoughts. Additionally, we will review resources that can aid in coping with grief, such as support groups, books, or other forms of therapy. Through grief therapy, individuals can find solace, understanding, and a path towards healing.
Strength-Based
This treatment method is one I love using with my trauma clients. Let's discuss your story, allowing you to be as vulnerable as feels comfortable. We will then work together to challenge the feelings of being viewed as a victim and work towards re-telling your story as a survivor, focusing on all that you have overcome.
Location
Virtual sessions