Laura Hansford
Hon. B.A., MSW, RSW
Often telling your story can be challenging…
I support adults who are dealing with trauma, major life transitions, identity exploration, relationship difficulties, parenting overwhelm, caregiver burnout, adoption experiences, and the day-to-day challenges of chronic illness or disability. These issues can create stress, anxiety, and a sense of being stuck.
Through a warm, steady, and collaborative approach, I help clients make sense of what they’re going through, build coping strategies, and reconnect with confidence, strength, and direction.
Experience:
I hold a Master of Social Work from King’s University College and I have supported youth, families, and individuals in both in-person and virtual settings. My early career began with a Developmental Service Worker diploma from Fanshawe College, followed by more than 15 years working with people with disabilities and complex mental health needs.
These experiences taught me the importance of dignity, connection, and meeting people where they are. I also completed an Honours B.A. in Social Justice and Peace Studies, allowing me to understand clients within the larger systems and social contexts that shape their lives.
Client Focus:
I work with adults 18+ seeking a steady, supportive presence while navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, or patterns that feel difficult to break. I have additional experience supporting clients over 55, Indigenous clients, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and neurodivergent adults.
My goal is to help every client feel seen, understood, and supported as they explore what they need and who they want to become.
Types of therapy:
I use a person-centered and relational approach that honors each client’s lived experience and inner wisdom. I draw primarily from Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and Somatic Therapy, both of which help clients understand their emotions and reconnect with their bodies.
I also integrate DBT skills, Narrative Therapy, self-compassion practices, and parts work when helpful. Every session is tailored to the client’s needs, pace, and comfort level
Issues:
I work with clients navigating trauma, identity exploration, relationship breakdowns, parenting stress, caregiver burnout, chronic illness, disability, and adoption-related experiences.
I also have specialized training in ADHD, body image concerns, chronic dieting, and complex trauma.
More than just my work:
Some of my favorite things are dogs, autumn, trips to the East coast and connecting with others. I love a good laugh, book, walk, or craft project. My friends describe me as authentic with a good sense of humor.
“The most important thing each of us can know is our unique gift and how to use it in the world.”
— Robin Wall Kimmerer
Let’s Connect:
If you’re unsure whether you are ready to begin therapy but want to see if I am the right fit, I welcome you to book a free consultation. Together, we can explore what healing might look like and take steps toward greater clarity, relief, and personal growth.
Client Focus: Individuals 18+, Indigenous, Neurodivergent, 2SLGBTQIA+
Types of therapy: Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and Somatic Therapy, while integrating aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, self-compassion and parts work
Issues: Trauma, identity exploration, relationship breakdown, parenting issues, caregiver burnout, disability/chronic illness and adoption. I have specialized training for those dealing with ADHD, body image challenges and chronic dieting, and complex trauma.
