Laura Garmatz, MS

We all go through tough times in life. Sometimes it’s a rough day, week, month, or season. The things that happen to us can have a powerful impact. How we get through those struggles is different for everyone.

Sometimes we want someone to hear our story and feel connected. Other times we are looking for skills, strategies, or a new perspective. Each of us has an inner strength that can be cultivated to move us forward.

Taking the first step towards change is the hardest. My belief is we each have a unique path in life and a place we belong. Each person has an inner strength that can help us achieve our goals. I look forward and am honored to aid people on their journey.

I am originally from southern Minnesota and moved to Brookings, SD in 2005. In September 2022 I graduated from SDSU with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and became a National Board-Certified Counselor.

Over the years I have worked in residential settings with people ranging in age from preschool to senior. I spent over five years working in Minnesota at an adult residential treatment facility and did my internship at Avera Behavioral Health Hospital. Through these experiences, I found my passion working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, personality disorders, persistent mental illness, and stage of life stressors.  

Outside of work I spend time with family, constructing craft projects, gardening, cooking, and baking.