About
Our stories begin to make sense when we take time to understand the context in which they were created
Hi, I’m Laura. I am an experienced UK trained, NZ Registered Psychologist. I hold the HPCA Act General Scope of Practice, a current annual practicing certificate, and I am also a Full Member of the New Zealand Psychologists’ Society.
I was born and raised in Scotland but have called New Zealand home for the last 18 years.
Since I was little, I have been drawn to other people’s stories. I loved sitting around the kitchen table in the village where I was brought up, listening and formulating the dynamics being shared by my family. I believe that our stories begin to make sense when we take time to understand the context in which they were created.
As a naturally sensitive and curious person, the inner workings of the mind, language, our emotions and how we behave have always fascinated me.
Regardless of where I am or who is in front of me, I am compelled to connect with people in a caring and meaningful way.
After originally training as a Forensic Psychologist in Scotland, I worked within the public and private prison sectors before being recruited by the Department of Corrections in New Zealand. After several years working within the prison sector, using cutting edge evidence-based psychological therapy, I had a huge desire to offer those skills to the wider population and decided to open my own practice in Browns Bay.
When I’m not working, self-care is hugely important. I love to explore the beautiful East Coast Bays with my young family, practise yoga and meditation, and browse the local markets.
a holistic, mindful approach to healing and growth
My approach
My biggest aim is to create a safe and supportive place that encourages vulnerability and holds space for powerful healing and growth. I do this using expert care and support, with a holistic, evidence-based approach to psychological therapy.
By helping them to balance the natural dance between their mind and body, my clients gain the psychological flexibility and equanimity necessary to thrive in our modern world.
Through therapy I support emotional awareness and regulation through attunement, insight and empathy. Clients learn how to notice, accept and regulate their emotional experiences.
I am always inspired by the courage, strength and determination of the people who choose to sit opposite me. It is an honour to support them along their journey.
I wholeheartedly believe that I need to be genuinely me when I am with my clients. I am intuitive, compassionate
and down to earth.
It is in my nature to be playful and humorous, whilst always remaining respectful, focussed, clear and trauma-informed. It is important for me to remain curious, open, and engaged, while being with you in a way that is authentic to who I am and unique to you and your individual needs.
I have trained in numerous treatment modalities over the years and my therapy style draws from Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
