Laura Westbrook

Finding a therapist who offers a safe, comfortable space is central to creating a reliable foundation for change, and Laura Westbrook centers her work on that principle.

She follows a person-centered model that treats the individual as the expert on their own life while she serves as a guide to facilitate growth. Her approach blends acceptance, empathy, and connection with practical tools tailored to each person - including literature, media, music, and meaningful conversation - and she does not shy away from using humor where it helps the therapeutic process.

Laura is a licensed professional counselor in Alabama (LPC04476) and Tennessee (LPC 7543) and has seven years of clinical experience. Based in Tennessee, she specializes in addictions, trauma and abuse, LGBT concerns, grief, coping with life changes, stress and anxiety, relationship and family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, anger management, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Her interest in counseling began with concerns about limited mental health care in the criminal justice system, and she has primarily worked for non-profit organizations treating addictions and trauma. She has experience working with both male and female populations across age groups and with clients from diverse religious backgrounds, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people living with HIV and other chronic illnesses that affect quality of life.

Laura often cites her favorite part of counseling as getting to know someone and hearing their story. She values the vulnerability it takes to share one’s experiences and appreciates the trust clients place in her when discussing intimate aspects of their lives.

On a personal note, she grew up in California, completed undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama, and earned both her Master’s and Specialist degrees from the University of Florida. She enjoys connecting with others through shared interests - she is a big fan of the TV show The Office and finds that favorite shows can be a helpful outlet for stress - and she playfully credits silly goat videos with helping her cope with homesickness in college.