Laura Shank, LCSW

Laura brings diverse experience to the Mental Health Association of Rhode Island, having worked as a school social worker and provided psychotherapy for underprivileged youth. She has also worked in the nonprofit sector and with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Her personal experience navigating the mental health system, following her own diagnosis of depression and anxiety over a decade ago, gives her a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in accessing care. In her practice, she specializes in working with individuals with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Passionate about supporting youth and families, she is dedicated to reducing barriers to care and promoting positive mental health outcomes. Laura holds a bachelor's degree in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University and a Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University. Through policy advocacy, resource navigation, and community collaboration, she strives to address systemic obstacles and create a more equitable and accessible mental health system. Outside of work, Laura enjoys reading and discovering new hiking trails with her two dogs, Ringo and Lucy.