Laura Thornhill has a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. She received Cum Laude distinction from York University where she completed her Bachelors degree in social science. She has also completed Bessel van der Kolk’s Trauma Stress Studies Certificate Program, and attended Harvard University’s Mind/Body Institute for Positive Psychology Certification. Laura also, completed The Cedar Centre’s (formerly known as the York Region Abuse Program, YRAP) Group Therapist Trauma Program.
Laura is a member of good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, with a proven record of adhering to professional and ethical standards.
She has been working in the field of mental health for thirteen years. She has a special interest in the neuroscience of emotion regulation and attachment. Laura has comprehensive theoretical knowledge, sound counselling practices of psychotherapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), behavioural modification, person centred approaches, dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), mindfulness, trauma recovery and relapse prevention.
Laura supports clients through the use of a strength based approach and brief solution focused techniques to address issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, isolation, relationship challenges, and other mental health related issues.
She facilitates therapeutic and psycho-educational groups, and is experienced in creating and delivering mental health workshops and lectures.
Laura also lectures at George Brown College in the Social Service Worker Program, and has been a member of clinical teams at Bellwood Health Centre/Edgewood Health Network, North York General Hospital, the Cedar Centre, Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, and the George Hull Centre for Children and Families.