More at drlauralwalsh.com Being curious and asking why is a defining quality of mine. I was never satisfied with a surface answer. Complex interactions and connections are what capture and hold my attention. That’s why people and their lives end up being so interesting to me. There are so many different ways to live and the choices we make give us endless possibilities. Therapy needs to be practical. Change needs to have meaningful steps that we both understand. We start with simply raising awareness in your life. That’s enough to begin sorting out facts from perceptions. Patterns emerge as we uncover truths and determine objective reality. You’ll see them in yourself, in others, and in your relationships. I’m active and authentic in our sessions, validating what’s real and empowering you to see the whole picture. This provides you with a direction towards what you can change – even when the situation and players stay the same. This internal sense of control is more accurate and powerful. It takes away hopelessness and instills relief. You become an active changemaker in your life. Gradually, your confidence builds and you trust your own judgement over others. Reflecting back, you see the best perspectives, answers and knowledge are found first within yourself. I’m an engineer’s daughter and have lived around the country and abroad. A native southerner, I’ve called Chicago my home for years with my teen stepsons, and our rescue dogs, Penny, Oliver and Fiona. I hold a BA in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy from Texas State University and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I’m diversely trained and experienced in clinical settings and with adult clients as well as a published author and speaker, graduate professor, and startup entrepreneur. My current interests are with suicide loss bereavement, ADHD symptom management, LGBT issues, kink/poly relationships, and substance and behavioral addictions. Currently, I am only offering telehealth sessions over a secure video link or by phone. Clients have access to a secure account portal to complete paperwork, send messages, and schedule or reschedule appointments.