Laura Templeton, Ed.S., Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Education:

Graduated from the University of Florida with a Master’s and Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

At a Glance:

I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist with over 15 years experience in the field of mental health. Along my journey, I have had the privilege to work in many roles, including as a crisis team responder, working with folks experiencing mental health crises, a victim advocate assisting folks who experienced traumatic events, and an addiction therapist at a substance abuse treatment center. I feel an immense amount of gratitude for this profession, as I have seen the benefit of mental health therapy in my own life.

Why did you become a therapist? 

My first therapist, Roberta Seldman, changed my life. She was integral to my growth and healing. It is my dream to help others the way she helped me.

What can a client expect to experience in session with you? 

A safe empowering space, meeting the client with positive regard and respect. I am collaborative with clients and want to help build resilience, coping skills, and make change.

If you could be the therapist to one celebrity, who would it be? 

Hannah Gadsby

How do you spend your free time? 

Spending quality time with my family.

What's your favorite quirk about yourself? 

I know A LOT of music song lyrics.

What does social justice mean to you? 

Social justice means equity for every individual and social group. However, in our culture, due to white supremacy, patriarchy, ableism, and classism, marginalized groups do not experience equity. With consistent systemic reflection and action, change can be achieved. In therapy, social justice would look like empowering the client, while also confronting systemic injustice and inequity.

How do you believe change happens?

Change happens through vulnerability, taking responsibility and risks. This quote has always spoken to me regarding change.

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. – Anaïs Nin”