Therapist Spotlight - Laura Draughn, LMSW

Laura Draughn is a native Nashvillian whose Social Work degree and Sociology background allow her to use a person-in-environment approach to healing. She works with you to explore your specific systems and the roles these systems play in each of your lives. Laura also uses a strengths-based approach with specific Cognitive Behavioral Therapy modalities, believing you are the expert of your own story. 

Laura originally started as one of our interns at NCCC in August 2021 and then came on board as a therapist after receiving her Master of Social Work in 2022. This month marks one year since Laura joined our clinical staff at NCCC, and we asked her a few questions to get to know her better.

Q + A with Laura

What clients have you enjoyed working with lately?

I have seen many clients struggling with loneliness, and I really love working with these folx. Due to Covid isolation, working from home, and the influx of people moving to Nashville and not knowing many others, our society is more lonely than ever. Additionally, creating and maintaining friendships in young adulthood is an extremely common struggle. I love working with these individuals to create a sense of community and belonging, whether that's solely in our sessions or beyond.

What three words best describe the type of therapist you are?

I would say relatable, understanding, and warm.

What "lights you up" outside of work?

Hot yoga, wine, and reading.

If you weren’t a therapist, what would you be doing? 

I would be working at Parnassus bookstore.

Is there any 'plug' of yours that we can share?

I am very passionate about donating blood! Unfortunately, there are some outdated discriminatory policies that prevent many people from being able to donate blood; however, if you qualify and can tolerate needles, please give it a try! It is free, quick, and makes a large impact. Donating platelets, plasma, and bone marrow are amazing options too!

Q + A with Laura’s Team Lead, Amber

What are Laura’s strengths when it comes to her work as a therapist?

Laura is determined and she is thorough. She’s never met a client or symptom she isn’t willing to try to work with. (Even when it’s hard for her.) She has a depth of internal knowledge and knows to seek supervision when she’s out of her comfort zone. She is flexible and ready to face whatever challenges have come up with her clients, yet she’s always got a plan. With every client she’s done research and prepared a list of different methods to best support her clients for when things feel hard to talk about.

In what areas does Laura shine? What has been your favorite thing about knowing Laura and having her on your team?

I’ve had the rare opportunity to work with Laura since her time as an intern at the University of Tennessee. It has been an absolute honor to be a part of her growth as a clinician. From the first days as an eager and anxious intern to the thriving clinician we see today. She brings a positive energy and a welcoming comfort to everyone she meets. She really makes you feel like nothing’s off the table and you can be your whole self with her.

While Laura’s caseload is currently full, prospective clients can always request to be added to her waitlist by emailing support@nashvilleccc.com.