Hi! I’m Laurel

As a counselor, professor, social worker, speaker, and writer, Dr. Laurel Shaler’s goal is to live out the words of Isaiah 61:1-3…To proclaim good news to the poor, to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives, to release prisoners from darkness, to comfort all who mourn, and to bestow joy!

In order to help others, Laurel earned her Masters in Social Work from Florida State University (and is a Licensed Social Worker) and earned her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University (and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and National Certified Counselor). She also holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Liberty University.

Laurel has a  wide variety of clinical experiences including working with adolescents, veterans, couples, and groups. When in operation, her private practice focused on helping women.  She also has a passion for adoptive families. After serving as an adjunct at several institutions, for over a decade now, Dr. Shaler has worked full-time as a Professor at Liberty University. She is a member of numerous professional organizations and actively presents and publishes.

In addition to her professional work, Laurel has been featured on many Christian  podcasts and radio programs, including Boundless by Focus on the Family, Building Relationships with Gary Chapman, and FamilyLife Today. Check out the speaking tab for more information, or contact Laurel to speak to your group. Laurel has also been published in the well-known Extraordinary Women, P31 Woman, and Lifeway’s Journey Magazines. In addition to her years of blogging (now on hiatus), she has written for many other well known publications. Check out the writing tab for links. 

Laurel’s first  book “Reclaiming Sanity: Hope and Healing for Trauma, Stress, and Overwhelming Life Events” was released by David C. Cook (2017), and her second book “Relational Reset: Unlearning the Habits that Hold You Back” was released by Moody Publishers (2019). Her most recent book was co-authored with Dr. Gary Chapman and is titled, “Loving Adopted Children Well: a 5 Love Languages Approach” (Moody, 2024). You can learn more by clicking on the “Books” tab. 

Laurel, her husband Nick, and their three precious children live in the deep south.  Laurel enjoys spending time with family and friends, being involved in church activities & ministries, and volunteering with many local organizations. She loves the Lord, her family, her friends, and all the sweets.

Disclaimer: Any opinions expressed on this page belong solely to Dr. Laurel Shaler, and do not necessarily represent the views of any organization she is affiliated with.