Laura Heitman, MSW, LCSW
She/her
Warm. Ethical. Collaborative. Animal-Assisted. Evidence-Based.
Welcome. I’m so glad you’re here. Reaching out for support is a courageous and powerful act of self-care, and it’s an honor to partner with you on your path to emotional wellness. I believe that tending to our mental and emotional health is just as essential as caring for our physical health, and that therapy can be a transformative space for healing, self-discovery, and growth.
As a warm, approachable, therapist who is passionate about promoting fairness and equality, my goal is to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel fully seen and heard. I bring deep respect for your lived experience and a collaborative spirit to our work together. We’ll move at your pace, with curiosity and humor to explore challenges and celebrate strengths. We will identify goals and build practical tools and skills to support your wellbeing and authentic self-expression.
I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness practices, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy—tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will navigate your difficulties and focus on your strengths and the outcomes that enhance and contribute to a sense of competency and empowerment. We may also explore how aspects of your lifestyle, including social media use, habits, and daily routines, can support meaningful and lasting positive change.
I offer Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) with my certified therapy dog, who often joins telehealth sessions and offers an added layer of comfort and connection. The human-animal bond can be a powerful source of support, and AAT is a goal-directed intervention that enhances the therapeutic process in gentle, intuitive ways. You’re also welcome to include your own animal companions in our sessions, as they can play an important and grounding role in your healing journey.
With experience in both clinical and educational settings, I bring a nuanced understanding of how emotional, behavioral, and neurodiverse challenges show up in daily life—especially for children, adolescents, and families navigating complex systems. I’ve supported clients with learning and developmental disabilities (including autism spectrum disorder), and work with a wide range of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting, women’s issues, career and mid life transitions
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming and rooted in ethical care and social justice values. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and empowered to grow.
Wherever you’re starting from, you don’t have to do it alone. I will look forward to seeing you at each and everyone one of our sessions and walking alongside you on this journey.
Professional Highlights:
Masters of Social Work from the University of Michigan, 1995
National Association of Social Workers- New Mexico, School Social Worker of the Year, 1999-2000
Albuquerque Public Schools Crisis Response Team
Field Supervisor, New Mexico Highlands University School of Social Work
Issues and Therapy Types:
Anxiety, Coping Skills, Grief/Loss, Life transitions, Mid-life issues, Moms and caregivers, Relationships, School Issues, Self-Esteem / empowerment, Stress Management, Women’s Issues
CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed, Motivational Interviewing, Holistic / Integrative Therapy, Animal-assisted therapy, Solution focused, Non-religious therapy
