Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Laurie Schmidt earned her Master of Social Work degree (Mental Health specialty) from Loyola University (Chicago) in 2018. She completed her undergraduate education with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology (Sociology minor) in 2013 from Elmhurst University (formerly Elmhurst College). During her education, Laurie received training and experience as a trauma therapist for survivors of sexual violence.

Ms. Schmidt has completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) through the EMDR Institute, Inc. She is certified in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention, and Domestic Violence Intervention and Advocacy.

Laurie has extensive experience working with diverse populations. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults (18-60+), families, and groups presenting with a variety of issues, including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. Before joining Kelly Ray and Associates, Laurie was most recently employed as a therapist within a community mental health setting.

She draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Psychodynamic, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT). Laurie’s approach is trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based.

Ms. Schmidt’s perspective on therapy: Therapy is first and foremost about the relationship. As is the case with any relationship, finding a good fit is essential. As your therapist, I will actively listen as you share your story and collaborate with you in developing treatment goals. I’m here to support and appropriately challenge you as you work to develop further insight, clarify your values, and make changes in your life. I will provide a safe space for you to process your emotions and assist you in examining what is within your control. Most importantly, in order to best meet your therapeutic needs, my approach will be individually tailored to you.

It is truly a privilege to get to know my clients and to support them during some of the most challenging times in their lives. I aim to validate my clients in ways they might never have experienced before. It is okay to not be okay. It is okay to feel how you feel. It is okay to need help. Healing is not linear and growth is a process. You are inherently enough and I am looking forward to meeting you where you are at in your process!