Laura McLaughlin

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Cincinnati (UC) and another in Clinical Psychology from Temple University, where I had the privilege of being mentored by renowned mood disorders researcher Lauren Alloy. Currently, I serve as an adjunct faculty member in UC’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program and have seven years of experience in clinical research across psychiatry, behavioral medicine, and clinical psychology. I specialize in helping people navigate life’s high highs and low lows, particularly those with Bipolar Spectrum Disorders (BSDs). With over a decade of combined research and clinical experience, I take an integrative approach, blending medical and holistic perspectives. I also understand firsthand what it’s like to support a family member struggling with serious mental illness and substance abuse. As a clinician, I appreciate every challenge my clients face AND I see opportunities for hope and healing. I provide evidence-based support in a nonjudgmental environment for anyone dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, depression, and mania/hypomania. Recognizing the deep connection between mind and body, I incorporate cognitive-behavioral and somatic approaches, as well as mindfulness and compassion-based therapies. To address trauma at its root, I use EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, and narrative therapy. For BSDs, I apply evidence-based treatments such as Family-Focused Therapy and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy. I understand that every person experiencing mood dysregulation has unique characteristics and patterns. My goal is to provide integrative care, offering evidence-based treatments that promote emotional stability and regulation skills. I also support spouses, parents, and families affected by mental illness. My clinical practice is rooted in my passion for psychological and behavioral neuroscience research. I have authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles on bipolar and depressive disorders, sleep, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and the impact of family environments on child well-being. Additionally, I have co-led Counseling on Access to Lethal Means workshops for mental health practitioners at conferences, including the 2023 American Mental Health Counseling Association Conference. With a combined four years of supervision and training under clinical psychologists in Philadelphia and licensed professional counselors in Cincinnati, I bring a well-rounded perspective to my work. In fall 2025, I will begin UC’s doctoral program in Counselor Education and Supervision, further advancing my role as an educator and researcher while integrating cutting-edge scientific findings into my clinical practice.