Laura Akers MSW, LGSW

Mental Health Therapist

Location/ Program

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program
New Hope Outpatient Program
School-Based Program

Joined VOA

2020

clinical Approach

As a mental health provider, I focus on treatment through a humanistic and relationship-based lens. I hope to connect with people by meeting them where they are at and encouraging growth and healing through their own values and pace. I provide individual therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), serving children, adolescents, adults, and families in the school and outpatient clinic setting.

Areas of experience and interest

My interest and experience centers around helping those who need help with symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, managing change and transition, coping skills, and relationship communication and conflict. I also spent several years as a behavioral therapist and have a special interest in working with youth with autism or other developmental or neurological disorders, especially those with hearing loss.

Specialty Training and Certifications

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) 
Dialectical Behavior Therapy trained (DBT)
Proficiency in American Sign Language

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Deaf Studies – University of Minnesota-Duluth
Master of Social Work in Clinical Mental Health- University of Minnesota- Twin Cities