Laurie has worked with children, youth and their families, in the capacity of both employee and volunteer, since 1980.  She has been employed in the Quesnel School District as either a student support or youth care worker since 1993.

Laurie has also been an active volunteer in the community of Quesnel as a foster parent, crisis line volunteer, hot lunch volunteer co-ordinator (School District), Parent Advisory Council member, and has been an avid supporter of chuch related programs involving children and youth.

She has many interests, enjoys physical activity and engages in a variety of creative pursuits.  She particularly enjoys spending time with family and friends, and is often observed either walking or bike riding with her husband.  Laurie has two grown sons, a daughter-in-law and two grandsons.

Laurie graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Northern British Columbia in 2003.  She is currently pursuing a graduate (Master's) degree in Social Work through UNBC.  Her years in the Quesnel School District have provided Laurie with additional courses in the areas of cognitive behavioural intervention, human development and conflict resolution.  She recently completed two courses through UNBC related to mental health and addictions.

Her approach to counselling with individuals is based on a strength based philosophy which views the helping relationship as a support from which to explore problem solving or enhance personal growth and development.  She has had experience in anger and stress management, self-esteem building, developing healthy relationships, coping with grief and loss, goal setting, decision making and problem solving.