Providing support that fosters clarity, emotional resilience, and a deeper sense of self
Laura Oliver, LCSW is currently welcoming new clients.
I offer Telehealth and in-office appointments and am committed to providing ongoing treatment for established patients, as well as new patients seeking consultation or therapy.
Laura Oliver, LCSW
I’m Laura Oliver, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience guiding individuals and couples through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Whether you're navigating early adulthood, parenthood, or other pivotal life stages, I aim to provide support that fosters clarity, emotional resilience, and a deeper sense of self.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in practical solutions. I offer a therapeutic environment where you feel heard, respected, and actively engaged in your own growth. I incorporate evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness strategies, and psychodynamic techniques, always adapting to your unique needs and goals.
With a clinical education from Columbia University and a career devoted to compassionate care, I’ve helped many clients move through periods of distress toward lasting personal insight and wellbeing. If you’re looking for a trusted partner in your healing process, I’d be glad to connect and support you on that journey.
My approach
As a practical, interactive, solution-focused therapist, my treatment approach is based on psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral models. I help patients develop insight into current problems and long-standing patterns in order to achieve resolution. With sensitivity, clinical expertise and compassion, I help patients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
Blending practical clinical approaches, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each patient. I work with each person to help them build on their strengths in order to identify and achieve life goals. Please look around my website to learn more about my practice and feel free to contact me - either by phone or through the website - with any questions you may have.
Education & training
Bachelor of Science from Columbia University - 1994 Master of Science from Columbia University - 1995
Fees, logistics and questions
$200 per 45 minute session, $250 per one hour session
A sliding scale is available. Ask about it when you reach out.
Cancellation policy
Advance notice of at least 24 hours is required or you will be responsible for the full cost of the missed session.
- Sessions
- In-person & telehealth in New York, NY
- Insurance
- UnitedHealthcareOptumUnited Behavioral HealthOxfordSelf-pay / Out of pocketMedicare
- Languages
- English
Frequently asked questions
People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, stress management and body image issues. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
During sessions you will have the opportunity to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 45 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn.
Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Finding new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications skills
- learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
- Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns
- breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.
There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier.
Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:
- Do I have mental health benefits?
- What is my deductible and has it been met?
- How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
- How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?
- Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
- Is primary care physician approval required?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule.
Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.
Resources
A few resources Laura has gathered for you.
Take the first step, at your own pace.
Let’s start with a conversation.
Reach out to schedule a consultation or ask any questions you have.
New York, NY
This form is for general inquiries only. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988.