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ABOUT

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I use an integrative approach in my work, primarily combining insight-oriented psychotherapy with mind-body strategies to help clients find more ease in their lives.
 

My practice focus is on life transitions, chronic stress, anxiety and depression, women navigating through perimenopause and beyond, and chronic illness, 

The roots of psychological symptoms are often due to past traumas, and I have an extensive background in trauma studies and treatment for children and adults, including Somatic Experiencing®, a treatment for resolving trauma symptoms and relieving chronic stress.

 

The SE approach releases traumatic shock, which is key to transforming PTSD and the wounds of emotional and early developmental attachment trauma. It's also incredibly effective at helping relieve chronic stress and its physical symptoms. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) and assist at trainings conducted by Somatic Experiencing International. I am also trained in EMDR and integrate it into work with clients when appropriate.

Meet Laura van Riper, LCSW, SEP

I studied with the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, where I learned the science and skills of meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and self-expression in words, drawings, and movement. I am also "fluent" in CBT, DBT, and play therapy and sometimes incorporate these techniques.

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My master's Degree is from Columbia University in Advanced Clinical Social Work, and my  B.A. is in psychology from Boston College. My post-graduate clinical training was completed at a busy outpatient center in Connecticut where I worked with a wide variety of client and family challenges. I am licensed to practice clinical social work in CT and NY. 

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In my first professional life, I managed, recruited, counseled, coached and trained executives in a variety of Corporate Human Resources positions. Later, as the founding director of Parent Awareness of the YWCA of Darien-Norwalk, I designed their risk prevention program and worked with school administrators, parents and volunteers to help families raise resilient children. This experience, combined with multiple volunteer roles with social service agencies and schools inspired me to pursue my passion of psychotherapy.

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I am a member of the National Association of Social Workers and Somatic Experiencing International (SEI)  and an activist for multiple social justice causes. I am the proud parent of two young adults, two loving dogs and am almost always out in nature when I am not working.

Addiction • Anxiety & Worry • Anger & Irritability • Attachment Issues • Bipolar  • Caregiver Stress • Communication Problems • Depression • Divorce • Grief, Loss & Bereavement • Health Coaching • Health & Wellness • Infidelity • Job Coaching • Mid-life Challenges • Mood Swings • Obsessions & Compulsions • Phobias • Post Traumatic Stress • Relationships Challenges • Self-harm • Sexual Abuse • Sexual Orientation • Stress / Stress reduction • Suicidal Thoughts & Behavior • Trauma • Trust Issues • Workplace Stress • Work-Life Balance

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