Profile image of Laurie  Richardson

Laurie Richardson(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Master of Education, Ed.M. Counseling Psychology
California
Adjustment difficulties & disorders- Anxiety - Depression- Existential crisis & challenges- Life transitions- Relationship issues-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Laurie Richardson is a licensed marriage and family therapist who works with individuals across all ages, with a specialty in children and women's issues. Many clients have found great personal accomplishment and worked through emotional challenges while struggling with life crises and transitions. They often find themselves questioning what gives them happiness and purpose and in the context of therapy, that becomes a positive signal and opening for growth. Laurie has great empathy for helping those who are navigating big and small changes, whether it is a move, job change, relationship shift or if it is a tender moment of crisis, where no choice presents itself, in a space that anxiety, stress, sadness and doubt emerge.

Laurie's approach is grounded in client-centered therapy, a focus that honors and keenly involves their own inherent wisdom. By incorporating expressive arts (visual art, poetry, drama, cinema therapy, cooking and eco-art, movement, sculpture, collage and play and sandtray), she assists clients in harnessing their creativity to help them heal, transform and grow beyond their circumstances in gentle, supportive ways. She incorporates deep listening, empathy and questioning to help her clients see the larger picture, the patterns that connect feelings and actions. Clients see their triggers as opportunities where they can apply their newfound skills and come from a place of empowered calm and clarity.

Laurie's goal is simple - to see real change in real time. Her style is warm, engaging, full of laughter and caring for her clients. Without being judgmental, she begins with where her clients situate themselves in the present. While paying attention to the past, she is fascinated with where the client wants to go in the future. Her first concern is to see clients in a safe, nurturing space, validated in their relationship. She welcomes both telehealth and live sessions.


Message to clients

In our therapy session, my goal is to be supportive and empathetic, to let you know that you are exquisite, just the way you are. I appreciate realness or "authenticity" as they say. My sincerest hope is that our session is filled with stories, deep compassion and easily understood and clearcut strategies to help you move "mountains", no matter how small or large.

I want to stress that letting out emotions, even "checking in", can for some, be emotionally taxing. Please take a few moments for yourself prior to session, to take care of yourself, take that bathroom trek, get a cool drink of water or a warm cup of tea...just to make sure you feel ready and comfortable to start. I want our time together to be valuable, meaningful and make a difference, and I care about what you think.

Should I ever say anything you disagree with or something you don't understand, tell me. Your voice and input matters and teaches me to be the best therapist I can. In our session, I hope we can both grow and learn from each other. I look forward to our time together.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 5 years

Midtown Art Therapy, Associate Therapist

California Institute of Integral Studies, MA in Counseling Psychology - Emphasis in Expressive Arts, 2019
Rudolf Steiner College, Grades Teaching Credential, 2004
CSU Sacramento, MFA, 2003
CSU Sacramento, Multiple Subject Credential, 1999
San Jose State University, BFA, 1994
UCLA, BFA, 1989

Licensure

California: 132096

Languages

English

Specialties

Adjustment difficulties & disorders - Support around adapting to new and/or challenging life circumstances; skill-building for improved stress management and reduction of anxiety.

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life

Existential crisis & challenges - Supportive exploration of meaning and purpose in one’s life; finding one’s path in the face of existential anxiety, dread, and feelings of meaninglessness

Life transitions - Coping with difficult or impactful life changes, such as moving to a new area, relationship transitions, child rearing, or career changes; learning self-care to better manage resulting stress

Relationship issues - Understanding one’s wants and needs in relationships; exploring patterns of interaction, addressing concerns, and strengthening satisfaction in relationships and dating




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Children (<12)
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Seniors (65+)
  • Teenagers (13-18)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

Laurie Richardson is not in-network with any insurances.

Read about the benefits of seeing an out-of-network provider here.


Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$100 (60min)