Laura Richardson, Ph.D.

I specialize in evidence-based treatments that promote lasting change and healing. My approach is grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which I've found to be highly effective in helping clients manage emotions and improve relationships. Recognizing the profound impact of trauma, I've expanded my toolkit to include EMDR, a powerful therapy that addresses deep-seated trauma when other methods fall short.

My practice is committed to providing affirming and culturally competent care. We actively work to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals and those experiencing racial discrimination. Our team continually pursues training and consultation to confront our biases and enhance our ability to offer truly inclusive therapy. As the parent of a transgender adult, I bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to my work with LGBTQIA+ clients and their families. I'm passionate about supporting parents, adolescents, and adults navigating gender identity and transition. Whether you're struggling with emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, or identity issues, I'm here to help. My integrative approach combines the structure of DBT, the trauma-processing power of EMDR, and a deep commitment to affirming, anti-racist practice. Together, we'll work to manage symptoms and help you thrive and live authentically. Areas of focus: - Emotion regulation - Trauma processing - LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy/letters for medical transition - Cultural competence and anti-racist practice - Parent support for LGBTQIA+ youth

Therapeutic approaches:

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

  • Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (KAP) through Journey Clinical.

Qualifications:

  • Certification in DBT from the Linehan Board of Certification (DBT-LBC™). DBT-LBC board volunteer - diversity committee.

  • Principal Clinical Psychologist at Essex County Hospital Center, a county in-patient psychiatric hospital in northern New Jersey where she was the Project Director of the DBT program.

  • Past continuing education reviewer for Behavior Tech, LLC (the company that teaches DBT).

  • Additional training in DBT including:

    • Advanced DBT intensive with Charlie Swenson, M.D. and Kelly Koerner, Ph.D.

    • Adolescent DBT training with Jill Rathus, Ph.D. and Alec Miller, Ph.D.

    • Adolescent and family DBT with Alan Fruzetti, Ph.D.

    • DBT Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), an evidence-based trauma treatment delivered within the DBT framework. With Melanie Harned, Ph.D.

  • Certified in EMDR by EMDRIA.

  • Clinical advisory board member for Emotions Matter, Inc., an advocacy and education non-profit for people living with Borderline Personality Disorder and their families.

  • Previously served on the New Jersey Psychological Association’s Ethics Education and Resource Committee.

  • NJ License#: 35SI00480300 and NY License#: 018389, Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT).