laurie berson

Earning the trust of clients and establishing a comfortable relationship is of utmost importance in my work. My approach is relational, trauma-informed and strongly influenced by interpersonal neurobiology, mindfulness, and attachment. I am a NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) Master Therapist and utilize this approach in my work. I came to the field of clinical social work after many years of personal growth in response to my own life challenges. I was fascinated by the process of inner work that serves as the foundation for living a better life with greater integrity, intimacy, and authenticity. I have sought out the best educational and training experiences to support my practice of helping others create the life they want to live. Prior to social work, I worked as a pediatric occupational therapist. I supported neurodivergent children and their families with the vast challenges and obstacles faced in gaining greater ability to function in our ableist world.

I believe there is infinite potential in each of us. Developmental and complex trauma, as well as trauma from social oppression, are internalized over time and negatively affect core beliefs, neurobiology, mental health, and physiology. I experience the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) as an effective approach to psychotherapy that supports internal organization and agency while increasing clarity of self and life energy. I believe each of us experiences unique challenges with varying degrees of depth and complexity. It is in our nature to develop our own ways to cope with and to survive in this imperfect world. Developing insight with respect to survival strategies and understanding whether they support or hinder the development of our potential is essential to create effective and lasting intentional change. I believe I can help many people gain clarity and work toward creating a better life.