Laura Belford

“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” - Viktor Frankl

Hi there, my name is Laura and I am a therapist here at Counselling & Co. My goal is to create a space where you can show up as your authentic self and be met with unconditional support. No matter what your goals and hopes might be for therapy, I am here to meet you with warmth, empathy, and understanding each step of the way. Through our work together, we can get clarity on what truly matters to you and your vision for a more balanced, joyful future. With your hopes in mind, and with a caring therapist by your side, you can make aligned, meaningful changes that create positive waves throughout many aspects of your life. This work has gifted me the privilege of getting to know so many incredible people and I look forward to seeing your true self, embracing the not-always-linear phases of healing, and cheering you on throughout your journey.

When life gets challenging, having supportive people in your corner can be crucial. I am honoured to be a supportive presence when you need one the most-to really listen, help process, and find meaning. Over the years I have learned how truly important community is to our wellbeing, and I strive to be that person who can help you regain your light and sense of connection to yourself and others.

Life transitions, even the most joyful ones, can bring up stress, overwhelm, and sometimes feelings of grief for how things were before. Whether you are a hopeful parent working through fertility options or considering adoption, a new mother trying to maintain a sense of self while navigating all that goes along with your role, a couple wanting to be intentional about moving in together or marriage, or perhaps someone looking to process a challenging breakup or loss, therapy can provide that purposeful, dedicated time for processing your emotions. Together, we can work to gain understanding and meaning from your past, build resilience and coping strategies in the present, and walk towards a values-driven and aligned future.

A great deal of my clinical work has focused on ADHD and executive functioning strategies. Whether this be helping students break unhelpful procrastination tendencies and build effective study habits, or helping adults find a sense of calm in the chaos and create systems that really work for their unique minds, I truly enjoy walking alongside people as they discover their potential. Life does not have to be a constant uphill battle- I would be so happy to help you create strategies to thrive at school, work, and home with a sense of confidence and balance.

Reaching out for help is a brave step. Your future self will be so appreciative of the work you are doing now. If you feel ready to move forward with getting the support you deserve, I look forward to hearing your story.

Why Work With Me

I have had the privilege of supporting people of all ages through their most challenging moments. My goal is for you to feel safe and empowered to draw on your unique strengths, and through these, we can make meaningful progress toward your goals. Some of these may include:

• Strengthening emotional attunement, especially during challenging times

• Increasing sense of connection to yourself, others, and the world

• Reflecting on and processing past experiences

• Building resilience and coping strategies for anxiety and stress

• Identifying systems that work for your unique brain and learning style

• Improving communication strategies

• Creating and maintaining healthy boundaries

• Learning to trust yourself and others

• Processing trauma and grief to rebuild a sense of safety

• Reconnecting with yourself and your values

Professional Background

I have a Master’s of Arts in Counselling Psychology and am registered with the CRPO as a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). Previously, I attended Queen’s University for my Bachelor of Arts Honours and Bachelor of Education. I am an Ontario Certified Teacher and my experience working in the education system informs my approach to supporting youth and their families.

Things I Bet You Didn't Know About Me

• Reading brings me so much joy and I am always looking for book recommendations

• My favourite travel destination so far would be Iceland- such incredible scenery!

• Favourite hobbies include baking, paddleboarding, and listening to Taylor Swift (combine all three for my ideal day!)