About


My name is Laurel A. Santos. I was born and raised in Northern California and have been living in New Orleans since 2013. I received my BA in Psychology with a minor in Human Sexuality from San Francisco State University, then attended the University of San Francisco for my MA in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy. I have worked with various populations of individuals and families, and am most fulfilled with my work when I am able to help individuals better react, respond and understand the dynamics that surround them in their relationships.

In graduate school, I worked with adolescents at a continuation school in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco and also with OASIS of San Mateo County; I also volunteered for the Institute of Aging Friendship Line and the Association for Professionals Treating Eating Disorders while in graduate school. Upon completing graduate school, I began accruing my hours towards licensure through the non-profit Youth Justice Institute, providing counseling to adolescents in juvenile hall in San Francisco and holding individual and group counseling sessions for young women involved in the system.

When I moved to New Orleans in February 2013, I began working with children and their families, teaching them skills and supporting them with behavior changes at school and home. Once I gained LPC licensure in 2015, I worked for Metropolitan ACT (Assertive Community Treatment), completing assessments for adults with severe mental illness. Before beginning private practice, I most recently worked with school-age children through Daughters of Charity (now Ascension DePaul Services) and spearheaded their school-based program.

Family systems have always been important to me and my work as a therapist; all individuals, regardless of family history, whether coupled or not, are part of a system. As we go through life, an individual, despite age, responds and reacts to the people and environment that they are in, and sometimes the best way to cope and adapt is by understanding how that system works, the role that you play in the system and how to reply in a way that creates the most harmony within yourself and the system.

I am currently licensed by the LPC Board of Louisiana as a Licensed Professional Counselor/LPC (#5589) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/LMFT (#1227). I am newly licensed in New Mexico as a LMFT (#CTB-2023-1018) and LPCC (#CTB-2023-1018. I am a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT), the Louisiana Counseling Association (LCA), and the Louisiana Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (LAMFT), where I previously sat on the board as Treasurer. I have completed Gottman Level 2 and all levels of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) training; I use these skills, information, and techniques to aid in my work with couples. I am also educated in cognitive behavioral therapy and expanding on my work around attachment theory, which can be deeply insightful for individuals and couples.

Drake

@drake_thetherapydog

Meet Drake, my therapy dog and your trusted companion on the path to emotional well-being. Drake works alongside me, offering a unique and comforting presence during therapy sessions. With his gentle nature and calming presence, Drake creates a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions and navigate life's challenges.

Drake also loves to share his favorite books that can inspire and uplift you on your personal growth journey. Here are some of his top recommendations:

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Discover the four powerful agreements that can transform your life and help you achieve personal freedom and happiness.

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

Embrace your imperfections and cultivate self-compassion with this inspiring book that encourages wholehearted living.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

Explore the human search for purpose and meaning in life through the eyes of Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and renowned psychiatrist.

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

Delve into the fascinating world of trauma and learn about the ways in which it impacts our minds and bodies. This book provides insights and strategies for healing.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo

Embark on a mystical journey of self-discovery and personal transformation as you follow the protagonist's pursuit of his dreams and the true meaning of life.

The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer

Journey into self-discovery and spiritual growth with this profound exploration of consciousness and liberation from limiting beliefs.

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown

Challenge the fear of vulnerability and embrace the power of courage and connection with Brené Brown's empowering book.

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Immerse yourself in the present moment and discover the transformative power of living in the now with Eckhart Tolle's timeless teachings.

Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller

Gain valuable insights into attachment styles and how they shape our relationships, providing guidance on developing healthier and more fulfilling connections.

Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff

Learn how to cultivate self-compassion and embrace a kinder and more nurturing relationship with yourself through this practical and insightful guide.