Laura Gradiska, MA

Laura (she/her) holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Education from Gettysburg College along with a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of San Diego, where she specialized in School-Based Mental Health Counseling. Earning her Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential, Laura has worked across a range of K–12 settings as a School Counselor and brings particular passion for supporting middle and high school students through their academic, and social-emotional journey of adolescence.

As a School Counselor, Laura works closely with teens and families to support academic planning, college and career readiness, and social-emotional development. She partners with parents and caregivers to provide a supportive and collaborative team for her students.  Laura is passionate about being a steady and positive connection for youth: someone who listens, guides, and helps them access additional support as they navigate complex decisions, relationships, emotions, and transitions into adulthood.

Laura’s clinical approach is grounded in client-centered care, emphasizing active listening and holistic understanding so young people feel seen, heard, and safe. She also draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help students understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and to build practical and useful coping skills. She brings a calm, open-minded, compassionate presence to her work, often incorporating humor and authenticity to create a supportive and judgment-free space. Laura has particular interest in supporting teenage girls and women around concerns related to relationships, self-esteem, body image, anxiety, depression, and women’s health, and she enjoys working with clients across all developmental stages.

Laura was drawn to Wonder’s relational, activity-based model and its emphasis on working with the whole family system. She values the opportunity to build connections with clients beyond traditional office settings. Whether it is through walks, time in the sunshine, or shared activities that create space for more natural, meaningful conversations, Laura enjoys this environment to foster connection, grounding, confidence, and emotional growth. Living in Santa Cruz, Laura is enthusiastic about time in nature and is passionate about integrating outdoor experiences into her work, having seen firsthand the impact it can bring to youth. She brings this same energy into her work with youth and families, supporting young people in building confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self into their life.