Stacey Laughlin

I’ve always been a people person, falling under the “therapist friend” cliché as a teenager. This prompted me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology at East Tennessee State University. I’ve also always been a nerd, so I knew I was going to continue my education. When I was deciding what master's program I wanted to specialize in, the counseling program appealed to my values and passions significantly more than other programs. I believe in lifelong learning, personal growth, and devoting my life to having a positive impact. It’s important that I leave this world being proud of the life I've lived, and therapy helps me accomplish that.

There is an entire book (the DSM) that describes all of the different mental disorders, so there is no shortage of areas to specialize in. However, I found that I enjoyed helping people with anxiety disorders, like OCD, develop coping and behavioral skills to better manage their symptoms. Anxiety disorders are common in a world on the heels of a global pandemic. I think this is the area where I can help the most.

Other areas of focus for me so far have mostly been generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and major depressive disorder. I also focus on working with people who have ADHD.

This is a safe space. You’re courageous for taking this first step. Participating in therapy is tough; confronting your fears and uncertainties can be even harder. But you absolutely can do it. NOCD Therapy is set at your own pace. We’re here to support you on your hero's journey of slaying some difficult dragons.

You're not a bad person for being afraid. It’s OK and quite normal. I would never kick someone out of my office or stop holding up my end of the work just because you're afraid to share your thoughts with me. There is no timeline for therapy, no punishment for not being able to share your thoughts fast enough, or for not being able to share your thoughts at all. This takes as long as it takes. The path is never the same for any two individuals, even when they have the same circumstances or issues. On a more practical level, some strategies for sharing thoughts when you want to but it’s too hard: Try to find a less threatening way to do it. Maybe texting or writing helps. Maybe speaking to them and not forcing yourself to give details would be easier. This is a voluntary process and a judgment-free zone.