Laura E. Captari, Ph.D., LP is an academic researcher and staff psychologist at the Danielsen Institute. She completed her Ph.D. in counseling psychology, with a focus in systemic/family treatment. Her dissertation explored links between emotional abuse and neglect, attachment processes, dissociation, and affect regulation. Dr. Captari’s research and clinical interests include the developmental and relational impacts of trauma, disaster, and loss across the lifespan, with attention to intersectionality, spirituality, the mind-body connection, and culturally-embedded strengths (e.g., gratitude, compassion, humility, meaning) that can serve as pathways to resilience and flourishing, particularly for those who hold marginalized identities. Her research and clinical work also focuses on supporting therapists and those in helping professions to address burnout/traumatization and catalyze well-being.
Dr. Captari firmly believes in the transformative possibilities of psychotherapy to help us more deeply understand ourselves and reshape the stories we are living in; become more curious, compassionate, and adaptable amidst life’s hardships; and experience greater freedom and creativity in work, love and play. She has received advanced training in psychodynamic, relational, and DBT approaches in a variety of settings (e.g., hospital, community mental health, college counseling, intensive in-home, private practice), and completed postdoctoral specializations in psychoanalytic and group approaches, as well as infant parent mental health. Dr. Captari welcomes each patient to a collaborative therapeutic journey that attends to the whole person, integrating cultural and spiritual resources, as well as the creative arts and nature, as part of healing.
Dr. Captari is co-author with Dr. Shelley Riggs of the forthcoming book, Systemic Treatment of Trauma-Impacted Families: A Clinician’s Guide to Assessment, Formulation, and Intervention. She also serves on the editorial boards for Psychological Trauma: Research, Theory, & Practice as well as Spirituality in Clinical Practice.