Lori is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, she graduated from UNCW and focused on working with youth and disenfranchised youth. Her most meaningful work has been merging expressive arts with therapeutic processes. When working with Lori, you can expect to build an authentic connection, a nonjudgmental space, and the freedom to set your own goals. Lori’s therapeutic process focuses on analyzing the psychodynamic between how your past affects your current behaviors. She balances sessions of exploring past traumas with mindfulness, grounding exercises, and creative self expression (writing, art). Lori approaches her work with young people with a deep respect for their humanity. She values their experiences and insights, regardless of their age.

Keely is a facility dog in training who is Lori's co-therapist. She provides animal-assisted therapy and helps with grounding throughout sessions. Animal-assisted therapy is a well-established evidence-based practice that can provide comfort, reduce stress, and boost social support during times of distress. Keely's presence can help clients to divert their attention away from stressful situations, feel loved and accepted, and develop a sense of self-worth and trust. If you are working with Lori, you may have the opportunity to meet Keely and experience the benefits of animal-assisted therapy for yourself.