Nice to meet you!

Laura Vargas, MSW, LCSW

A woman in a black suit and red top, holding a blue patterned mug, smiling as she stands in a bright, modern living room with large windows, potted plants, a beige sofa, and a white armchair.

I was born in Colombia and raised in the melting pot that is Miami, Florida. Ever since I was a young child, I have had a natural inclination and desire to get to know people on a deeper level. I recognized early on that no matter the circumstances, each individual carries a powerful resilience- whether they are actively recognizing it or not, and I wanted to help activate that resilience for those struggling to see it or tap into it. That is what inspired me to go into mental health and continues to inspire me each day. 


A woman in a blue dress being interviewed by a man in a red shirt, holding a microphone, at an outdoor event promoting overdose awareness, with banners and tents in the background.

I double majored in Psychology and International Studies with a Minor in Social Work at the University of Michigan. I went on to receive my Masters in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and remained in Philadelphia for several years after that as I launched my career at the Philadelphia Medical Examiner’s Office.

I had the privilege and honor of starting the nationally recognized Philly HEALS, the first ever holistic grief support program specifically for individuals grieving deaths due to substance-related causes.

Since then, I have worked with thousands of bereaved individuals, presented at national conferences, consulted to various jurisdictions, trained clinicians in grief, and been featured on several podcasts and other media platforms. I also work as the Director of Outreach Programs for Peer Support Community Partners focusing on expanding peer grief support through the United States. 

A bride and groom in wedding attire standing together outdoors with a black dog dressed in a tuxedo. The couple is smiling and looking at each other, with the bride holding a bouquet of white flowers. The background includes trees and a building.

I now live in Denver with my husband and our beloved dog, Rocky. In my free time, I like to hike, explore and appreciate the beauty of Colorado, connect with my Latin heritage, and travel the world, always stopping for a moment to marvel at the majesty of our planet and the humans living on it. 

A woman standing at a podium giving a presentation at a conference. Behind her is a large screen displaying the conference details, including the title 'The Importance of Cultural Humility in Grief Support' and her name, Laura Vargas.

Certifications

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania

  • Member of the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC)

  • Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (Evergreen Certification, July 2020)

  • Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist (Evergreen Certification, November 2020)

  • Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (University of Pennsylvania, August 2018)

Click below or call 720-255-1364 to book a free 15-minute consultation to learn more about how we could work together to empower you through these difficult times. 

Si está pasando un tiempo difícil, unde el boton abajo o llamame al 720-255-1364 para una consulta gratis de 15 minutos y nos ponemos de acuerdo para sacarte adelante con la terapia de duelo. 

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