I am honored to live by the words of Confucious.
“Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
About
I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Master’s of Arts degree in Human Development and Family Relations with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am licensed by the state of Connecticut. My undergraduate studies were obtained from the University of Massachusetts where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Early Childhood Development.
In working with children and families, I draw on my educational background and extensive experience in child development. I am passionate about helping children and families heal and grow in therapy and I specialize in working with children who have experienced trauma and loss. In 2010, I had the honor of receiving The Department of Children and Families Provider of the Year Award for Outstanding Service to children in Connecticut.
I have a sincere interest in reducing the emotional impact that high conflict divorces have on children. In an effort to help with this issue in Connecticut, I have volunteered regularly as a Special Master at the Regional Family Trial Docket at the Superior Court in Middletown to help parents develop agreements on custody and parenting plans and to help them avoid costly and emotionally draining trials. I have also volunteered as a Mediator for the Connecticut Children’s Law Center which provides low cost mediation for families who are divorcing and need assistance resolving conflicts. I am a member of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, the Connecticut Council for Non-Adversarial Divorce, the Connecticut Collaborative Divorce Group and the Collaborative Divorce Professionals. These groups are made up of professionals committed to reducing conflict for families during divorce and provide ongoing education to its members.
Volunteer
During my career, I have had the pleasure of volunteering as a Special Master at the Regional Family Trial Docket, the Connecticut Children’s Law Center and The Women’s Independent in Network addition to many local civic organizations.
Testimonials
“Laura Renfro is a true professional . She is skilled at assessing children’s emotional and physical needs and takes the time collaborate with other providers. I have been impressed with Laura’s dedication to and understanding of children and it has been a true pleasure to work with her treating children and families. As a child & adolescent psychiatrist, I have found Laura to be a breath of fresh air in the mental health field.”
—Pamela Kurth, MD Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, West Hartford, CT
“Laura Renfro is an excellent family therapist. Her ability to empathize and understand family systems make her a close colleague of mine. She sees kids, adolescents and adults. She is wonderful with couples and families. Having the ability to see and be very helpful to all different facets of a family, set her apart from other therapists. Her background and experiences allow her to team with other clinicians, schools, and other professionals to get results from her clients. I strongly recommend Laura Renfro as an experienced, understanding, and dynamic family therapist.”
—Marc L. Lehman, LMFT Licensed Marital and Family Therapist, West Hartford, CT
“As an attorney who represents parents in litigation concerning child custody matters, I’ve learned the fundamental importance of involving mental health professionals who have the ability to propose workable solutions catered to the specific family dynamics that each case presents. Laura Renfro cares about the individuals involved in custody disputes, but as importantly, she knows how to assist them by proposing practical courses of action given the circumstances.”
—James M. Ruel, Attorney at Law, PC, Hartford, CT
“I met Laura 20 years ago when we were both starting our private practices. Over the years, I have found Laura to be a consciencious, compassionate and intelligent clinician who has an uncanny ability to keep an eye on the target perspective with her clients. It is highly unusual for a clinician to possess both a working knowledge of the legal profession as well as an intuitive approach toward problem solving for her clients. What I have witnessed in Laura’s approach as a parent coach is unparalleled and a huge contribution to our field!”
—Tricia Abad, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Farmington, CT
“I have been working with Ms. Renfro for the past 7 years having referred numerous children to her practice. Ms. Renfro is an excellent therapist who is able to engage even the most difficult children. Her unique style coupled with her acceptance of traumatic issues have helped her form solid working relationships with her clients. Ms. Renfro is a very strong advocate for her clients as well often times attending meetings outside of sessions to ensure the needs of her client are being addressed in all facets of their life. She has been available for educational meetings, provider meetings, and at times, court hearings. I would encourage families seeking someone for their child to consider Ms. Renfro due to her extensive knowledge and experience.”
—Melissa Bostrom, MSW DCF Supervisor
Finding A Therapist
Finding a therapist to work with is an important decision. I encourage you to get names of therapists from friends, family, physicians, schools or others. Call several different therapists and speak to them on the telephone. If you enjoy that conversation, make an appointment. Do not be afraid to make several appointments and meet several different therapists. At the first appointment, ask questions. You can inquire about their training, experience and philosophy and how they will be able to help you. All therapists should be open and welcoming of all your questions, thoughts and concerns.
Naturally, be honest about your search and give plenty of notice if you need to cancel an appointment.
