Kira McLaughlin, Resident in Counseling

Kira McLaughlin (she/her) is a resident in counseling currently pursuing her LPC in Virginia. Kira earned her Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Western Carolina University. She is a graduate from Clemson University with a Masters degree and Education Specialist degree in Counselor Education - Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

In her previous outpatient therapy practice, Kira provided counseling for individuals processing through sexual, relational, and childhood trauma. She has experience working with clients navigating through anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and self-harm. Kira primarily utilizes person-centered approaches and places value on each client’s unique experiences. She also uses techniques from trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. Kira is finalizing her certification in EMDR.

Kira prioritizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship and strives to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel comfortable being their true selves. She approaches client experiences with curiosity and compassion, believing that the client is the expert in their own life. Kira hopes that therapy can be a validating and empowering space to promote healing and personal growth.

Trainings and Certifications:

  • Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 

  • EMDR

  • During residency, Kira is under the supervision of Kim Small, LPC License # 0701005889

The Things I Love:

  • My dog Chapel

  • Live music and going to concerts

  • Aquariums (my favorite ones so far are the Georgia aquarium and the Monterey Bay aquarium)

  • Watercolor painting

  • Getting coffee and spending hours in an antique store

The Books I Love: