Creating a safe and comfortable environment for new families to share their story is a critical component of the admissions process. The rapport created in this first step is essential in establishing a trusting relationship with our families who are taking a giant leap of faith in professionals they have just met. They deserve an award as does their child for being so brave and courageous!
Laura Kemper
LCSW
Admissions Director
Credentials
Master of Social Work, University of Utah
Bachelor of Science, Speech-Language Pathology and Hearing Science, University of Utah
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Philosophy
The truth is: Belonging starts with self-acceptance. Your level of belonging, in fact, can never be greater than your level of self-acceptance, because believing that you are enough is what gives you the courage to be authentic, vulnerable, and imperfect.
-Dr. Brene Brown, LCSW
Gateway Academy provides a safe and nurturing environment for students to begin their journey of self-acceptance. This is the first step in their emotional growth experience to heal their relationship with themselves as well as their relationship with their family.
Professional
Laura started her professional career as a social worker in the emergency department providing crisis intervention to those needing emergency care. Her entry into private treatment began as an assistant therapist at a therapeutic wilderness program working with adolescent boys. Later, Laura worked as an educational consultant guiding families in need through the treatment process. This ultimately lead her to what she enjoys the most...Admissions. Laura's passion lies in working closely with families during the emotionally-draining admissions process. She has a natural ability to connect with others, create a comfortable atmosphere and reduce the anxiety associated with placing a child in treatment.
Personal
When Laura isn't working, you will find her spending time with her family, 2 dogs and her very energetic set of twins. She enjoys the great outdoors, creating art and jewelry using warm glass as her medium, and trying to keep her mind, body, and soul in shape to keep up with her kids and life. Laura has a lust for life and enjoys going to new places to vacation...mostly the beach!