Laura Macias

LMSW-C, Macro, CCTP & Co-Owner

A woman with dark curly hair smiling in front of a beach-themed painting.

Licensed Master Social Worker - Clinical, Macro

CCTP, EMDR Certified Therapist

Co-Founder & Clinical Therapist

I am a woman of color deeply grounded in my faith and spirituality, which serve as guiding principles in both my personal and professional life. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan–Flint and earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan in December 1999. With over 26 years of experience in clinical work, I have specialized in trauma-informed care for individuals aged 15 and older. Currently, I am a licensed therapist in Michigan with a clinical and macro focus.

In 2018, I co-founded Living in the Pause, Counseling and Consulting with my colleague and friend, Kasie White, LMSW-C. The practice is dedicated to supporting therapists, first responders, and other professionals in their healing journey, along with those whose lives have been impacted by trauma, PTSD, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and overall mental wellness.

My Therapeutic Approach

My work is grounded in CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic practices, and Strength Based Therapy. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I integrate a wide range of evidence-based modalities. This integrative model allows me to tailor each session to the client’s unique needs, goals, and strengths.

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Clinical Specialties

  • My work is grounded in CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic practices, and Strength Based Therapy. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I integrate a wide range of evidence-based modalities.

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

    Internal Family Systems (IFS)

    Culturally Sensitive and Emotionally Focused approaches

    Interpersonal Therapy

    Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

    Motivational Interviewing

    Person-Centered Therapy

    Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

    Strength-Based Therapy

    Trauma-Focused Interventions

  • The practice is dedicated to supporting therapists, first responders, and other professionals in their healing journey, along with those whose lives have been impacted by trauma, PTSD, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and overall mental wellness.

Education, Work Experience & Certifications

  • Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan (1999)

    Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan–Flint

  • Co-founded Living in the Pause, Therapeutic Services, PLLC (2018)

  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

    EMDR Certified Therapist

    IFS Level 1