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Laverne Edwards

New York
Therapist
Manage Medications:
Practice at a Glance
SPECIALTIES
Autism +
Anxiety
Depression
Burnout
Transition to Adulthood
Independence
Medical Conditions
STYLE
Encouraging
Thoughtfully Challenging
Flexible
Reflective

About

Welcome, I'm so glad that you're here. Reaching out for support takes courage, and I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable being yourself. I'm Laverne Edwards, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York with a background in hospital-based behavioral health, where I've worked with neurodivergent adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges and life transitions.

My approach is genuine, collaborative, and practical. I don't believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I tailor our work to your unique strengths, goals, and experiences. Together, we'll create a space where you can explore challenges openly, develop new coping strategies, and move toward the life you want to build.

I have a particular passion for supporting autistic and neurodivergent adults through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, while also working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship concerns, and significant life changes. My goal is to help you feel understood, build confidence in your abilities, and navigate life's challenges with greater resilience and self-compassion. Wherever you are in your journey, I look forward to walking alongside you.

Education & Licensure
Master of Social Work (MSW), Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, City University of New York; Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Brooklyn College, City University of New York.
Treatment Approach
What motivated you to specialize in working with autistic adults?

My passion for working with autistic and neurodivergent individuals began long before I became a social worker. At 12, I had the opportunity to volunteer at one of the few schools in my home country dedicated to children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. That experience profoundly impacted me and sparked a lifelong commitment to supporting and advocating for this community.

Throughout my career, I have remained dedicated to this work in a variety of roles, including direct support professional, care manager, incident reviewer, and now as a hospital social worker. These experiences have given me the privilege of supporting individuals across different stages of life and navigating complex systems alongside them and their families.

What continues to inspire me is the resilience, individuality, and unique perspectives of autistic and neurodivergent people. I believe everyone deserves care that recognizes their strengths, respects their autonomy, and affirms their identity. My goal is to provide a compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to define success on your own terms.

How do you bring a strengths-based, affirming approach to your client work?

My approach is grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. I strive to create a compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming space by listening without judgment, respecting your lived experiences, and tailoring therapy to your unique communication style, strengths, and goals. Rather than focusing on changing who you are, we'll build on your abilities and develop practical strategies that support the life you want to live.

Practice at a Glance
SPECIALTIES
Autism +
Anxiety
Depression
Burnout
Transition to Adulthood
Independence
Medical Conditions
STYLE
Encouraging
Thoughtfully Challenging
Flexible
Reflective
Laverne Edwards
New York
Therapist