Laura McCarthy, M.Sc. 

Psychological Associate
Populations seen: Children and Adolescents

Laura practices in the areas of school and clinical child & adolescent psychology. She provides psychological assessment and psychotherapy for children and adolescents to better understand their strengths, learning profiles and needs, emotional and behavioural challenges, and to support their overall mental wellbeing and functioning. She uses client-centred, collaborative, and evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, ACT, and EFFT, to build relationships with and support a variety of clients and presentations, including:

·      Neurodevelopmental disorders (autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities)

·      Intellectual disabilities

·      Mental health and other concerns (such as anxiety, OCD, depression, motivation, and procrastination)

Laura continues to expand her learning in neurodiversity-affirming practices, being flexible in assessment and psychotherapy to acknowledge the specific challenges, experiences, and insights that arise with her neurodivergent clients who live in a neurotypical world. Laura also provides consultation to help parents, educators, and other supportive adults in understanding and guiding clients’ development and mental health.

Laura is a registered psychological associate with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Laura completed her graduate training at the University of Calgary, obtaining a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in school and child psychology in 2017. She has completed training at the Calgary Board of Education, the Centre for Wellbeing in Education through the University of Calgary, UGDSB, Launch Behavioural Services, and Kitchener Psychology Centre. She is also grateful for all of the wonderful youth she has been honoured to work with who have contributed significantly to her learning.

She continues to pursue professional development opportunities to grow her skillset and meet the needs of her diverse clients. In addition to her work at Waterloo Psychology Group, she also works part-time at the WRDSB as a psychological services consultant.