Meet Laura

Thank you for taking the time to connect with me.

Joy is a fruit of the spirit. Born from gratitude, it is boundless, transcending, enduring, profound and different from happiness. I believe that resilience is an innate human capacity and that living a life with joy is possible for everyone. 

I have always been drawn to the nature of the mind, non-dual consciousness and the intersection of mental health, religion, spirituality and culture.

My quest to live a more balanced life led me to study various embodiment, movement and traditional healing practices that taught and reminded me of the intelligence of the body and the importance of ancestral wisdom and community.

Having experienced the benefits of embodied self-awareness through years of practice, training and mentorship, throughout the course of my life, I continued to train in contemplative practices and holistic approaches to wellness. Eventually, I became certified to facilitate yoga, mindfulness, meditation and compassion practices. 

Education and Professional Background

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BScN. Ryerson University.

Masters of Nursing, MN. University of Toronto.

Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, CPMHN(C). Canadian Nurses Association.

National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (U.S.A), NBC-HWC. National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches.

EMDR Therapist. The Institute for Creative Mindfulness.

Certificate in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy. The Embody Lab.

Advanced Principles and Practice of Mindfulness. McMaster University.

Center for Mindful Self-Compassion. Trained Teacher. 

200hr Registered Yoga Teacher. Yoga Alliance.

Education and Professional Background

Bachelor of Science in Nursing, BScN. Ryerson University.

Masters of Nursing, MN. University of Toronto.

Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, CPMHN(C). Canadian Nurses Association.

National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (U.S.A), NBC-HWC. National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches.

EMDR Therapist. The Institute for Creative Mindfulness.

Certificate in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy. The Embody Lab.

Advanced Principles and Practice of Mindfulness. McMaster University.

Center for Mindful Self-Compassion. Trained Teacher. 

200hr Registered Yoga Teacher. Yoga Alliance.

Mental Health

Early in my career I had the opportunity to work  with individuals in crisis and with communities affected by intergenerational trauma. I am grateful for this experience and continue to be inspired by the capacity to thrive despite adversity and the strength that can be found in community and culture.

My work is informed by over 20 years of experience in healthcare, mental health and wellness. Using a trauma-informed and an integrative therapeutic approach, I use all of my skills to offer my clients holistic care that is evidenced informed, strength-based and tailored to meet their unique needs.

I have worked in roles on the frontlines, in professional practice, in leadership and in healthcare administration. As a clinician, I have worked in mental health in systems ranging from large volume hospitals to community clinics. Through community service and advocacy, I have contributed to health and wellness programs in speciality hospitals, in the criminal legal system and in the public health sector.

I look forward to meeting you and supporting your wellness goals. 

 

What People Are Saying

 

“Thank you, for the compassion, patience and tolerance you have given to so many, especially, when they had nowhere else to turn, and were at their lowest; Thank you for creating safe, and brave spaces for individuals to be their authentic selves”. 

 President. OPSEU/SEFPO

 

“Thank you so much for coming into TAIBU! …Our clients really appreciated the work you put together for them”

TAIBU Community Health Centre

 

“I’m also grateful that you were the first person I tried therapy with”

Therapy Client

 

“Your presentation was so important and valuable to so many...Caregivers were so appreciative of the information and really enjoyed the takeaways”

 

Program Lead-Education. Ontario Caregivers Organization.

 

"The results are in and our Thrivers absolutely loved today's session. ...It received 5/5 stars....Thank you so much for sharing your perspectives with us"

Thrive Health

 

"I was offered the position ... I just want to say, thank you again for all the support that you have given me during this process.”

Coaching Client