Laura Van Luyk

Therapist

Masters of Social Work (MSW) | Registered Social Worker (RSW)

Sometimes children and youth are carrying more than they know how to express and it can be difficult for them to understand how to navigate what they are going through. Big feelings, life changes, school stress, friendships, or everyday challenges can leave them feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward.

I create a warm and non-judgmental space where children and youth can show up exactly as they are. My approach is person-centred, collaborative and individualized to each child’s unique needs and experiences. Using evidence-based approaches, I support clients through emotional and mental health challenges while helping them feel understood, encouraged and cared for along the way.

I strive to help children and youth feel seen, supported and understood so they can navigate challenges with greater confidence and ease. Through a strong therapeutic relationship where all emotions are welcome, clients can begin to feel more hopeful, empowered and better able to understand and manage their emotions.

A bit about me professionally:

I am a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Dordt University. Throughout my university and graduate training, I have worked with a broad span of populations across clinical, community and private practice settings.

My experience includes play therapy, where I supported children using evidence-based, play-informed interventions while collaborating on treatment planning. I have also worked in hospice care, providing counselling and crisis support to individuals and families navigating end-of-life experiences, as well as facilitating support groups.

In addition, working at a pregnancy centre strengthened my skills in trauma-informed communication and supporting individuals through sensitive and complex decision-making. I also have experience in private practice working with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds, which further deepened my ability to provide compassionate emotional support and build safe, trusting therapeutic relationships.

Types of therapy I incorporate into session:

●Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

●Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

●Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

●Narrative Therapy

●Person-Centered Therapy

●Play-Informed Approaches

A bit about me outside of the therapy space:

I have ADHD and have spent years learning how to work with my brain rather than against it. Over the years, I've developed a deep appreciation for the different ways people think, learn, organize, and move through the world. I see ADHD as a strength that makes me, me!

I love spending time with my family, my husband and with my one-eyed cat who has a particular talent for chewing lamp cords and biting ankles.

When I'm not in a therapy session, you will most likely find me working as a wedding coordinator! I love helping people navigate meaningful moments, whether it be at a wedding or in the therapy room.

And fun fact: during my graduate internship, I was Lindsay's intern! I continue to value her mentorship and love any opportunity to keep learning.