Anna Laughter, MA, LLC

Phone: 616-426-9034, ext. 673
Email: alaughter@secondstorycounseling.com

MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Wheaton College

BA in Recreational Therapy - Grand Valley State University

No one is able to escape the reality that suffering is a part of life. Plans change, relationships change, dreams are forced to change and we find ourselves crushed by the weight of disappointment and grief. Finding ourselves in that place is deeply painful, however, nothing is more painful than trying to navigate it alone. My own experiences have instilled in me a belief in the power of vulnerability and its role in moving us towards healing and wholeness as we allow ourselves to share our story and are willing to let someone help hold the pieces.

When I am not working I can often be found adding new songs to my Spotify playlists, playing pickleball, spending time with friends, looking for any opportunity to be near a body of water or watching sports documentaries.

My Approach

I tend operate out of a person-centered and strength-based approach to counseling, meaning that I celebrate and build on the unique strengths of each individual. Additionally, I draw from attachment theory, internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and narrative therapy. I have also grown to value the role that creative expression can play in the healing process. I  have found that often times words can fall short of expressing our lived experiences and we can benefit from being introduced to creative ways of communicating and finding our voice.

What you can expect

It is an honor to enter into your story and you can expect that I will respect this invitation by providing a safe, warm and supportive environment. Together, we will identify and navigate through the framework and approach that is best for you in order to foster personal awareness, growth, and confidence.