Balancing Minds Wellness — Compassionate Trauma-Informed Psychology (NY & FL)
Compassionate, empathic, attuned therapy for adults, adolescents, and children
Areas of focus include complex PTSD, developmental trauma, dissociation, and identity fragmentation. In-person sessions in Commack, NY and secure telehealth for New York & Florida residents.
About Balancing Minds Wellness
Balancing Minds Wellness provides compassionate, empathic care rooted in connection, respect, and presence. The practice offers a safe, supportive environment for individuals and families navigating the lasting impact of trauma.
Dr. Laura Ness, Psy.D. is licensed in New York and Florida with advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Model Therapy, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and DID integration therapy.
She also holds two Master’s degrees — one in General Psychology and one in Clinical Psychology — which provided a strong academic foundation for her doctoral work. Her doctoral dissertation examined dissociative identity disorder in adult male survivors of childhood sexual abuse, focusing on characteristics and symptom profiles. This research provided important insights into how complex trauma manifests in men through dissociative symptoms, identity challenges, and coping strategies, deepening her expertise in the treatment of severe trauma.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Ness is a published author and presenter, with contributions to peer-reviewed journals, professional conferences, and community publications on trauma, dissociation, and child protection.
Selected Publications & Professional Contributions
- Ness, L. (2004). Book review: Sexually Abused Males: The SAM Model of Theory and Practice by J. Spiegel. Family Violence & Sexual Assault Bulletin, 20(2).
- Presenter, ISSTD 24th International Fall Conference.
- Ness, L., & Ross, C. (2010). The Dissociative Trance Disorder Interview Schedule.
- Galasso, J., & Ness, L. (2008). Understanding and Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PsychDigest, 2(8), 36–38.
- Ross, C., & Ness, L. (2010). Symptom Patterns in Dissociative Identity Disorder Patients and the General Population. Journal of Trauma and Dissociation, 11(4), 458–468.
- Ness, L. (2011, December). Fix My "Bad" Child. GEM Magazine, 38.
- Ness, L. (2012, Winter). To Punish or Not to Punish? That is the Question. GEM Magazine, 40.
- Ness, L. (2012, August). Take a Stand to Protect Our Children. GEM Magazine, 11.
- Ross, C., Schroder, E., & Ness, L. (2013). Dissociation and Symptoms of Culture-Bound Syndromes in North America: A Preliminary Study. Journal of Trauma and Dissociation.
Services
Individual Therapy (Adults & Adolescents)
Work includes stabilization, nervous system regulation, parts-informed exploration, and paced trauma processing. EMDR and DBT skills are included when appropriate.
- Complex PTSD; developmental & attachment trauma
- Dissociation, DID, and identity fragmentation
- Trauma-related anxiety and emotional overwhelm
Child & Family Therapy
Developmentally sensitive, play-informed, and caregiver-inclusive therapy for children.
- Sand Tray Therapy
- Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
Professional Consultation
Consultation for clinicians working with complex trauma and dissociation, including DID integration frameworks and case conceptualization.
Coping Skills & Resources
Flashback Management & Containment
Plans and imagery that reduce intensity and restore a sense of control during trauma reminders.
Grounding Techniques
Sensory and movement-based practices to return to the present and steady the body.
Mindfulness Practices
Brief, sustainable routines that support emotion regulation and resilience.
Fees & Insurance
Out-of-Network (OON)
Many clients receive partial reimbursement from their insurance for psychotherapy services via OON benefits.
Good Faith Estimate
You are entitled to a Good Faith Estimate of costs under the No Surprises Act.
Payment
Payment is due at the time of service. Cash and check are accepted. Credit cards are not accepted.
Contact
Phone: (631) 413-1339
Location:
340 Veterans Hwy, Suite 8
Commack, NY 11725
By appointment only — in-person (Commack) & telehealth (NY & FL residents)
Request an Appointment
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