Note: Dr. Laura Ruesjas-Lukasik does not posses a medical or dental qualification
My Path to Becoming a Psychologist
I’ve always been interested in how and why people behave the way they do. As an adolescent, I began to read books written by Masters in the psychology field.
My two sisters are also psychologists, and my Aunt is a Psychiatrist. I listened to and was part of many conversations with them about why people behaved the way they did.
My interest in understanding people deepened when I had my 2 children as I helped them navigate various challenges as they grew up. My experiences as a parent inspired me to pursue a career as a psychologist to help other parents and their children.
I love my work as a psychologist; it gives me great pleasure to know that I impact adolescents’ and adults’ lives in ways that help them feel better, manage their emotions, and move forward in their relationships and lives in positive ways.
Carrie Jones, Director of Counseling, Community Center Shanghai
“It’s a privilege to recommend Dr. Laura Ruesjas-Lukasik. She worked in our community center from 2018-2020 providing counseling to a diverse population of clients from all over the world.
Her ability to offer counseling sessions in English, Spanish and French is particularly impressive. Laura’s ethics are above reproach, and her genuine care for clients and their well-being is clearly evident.”
Therapy Experience
I have a wealth of counseling experience. Since 2016, I’ve provided counseling to locals and expats from all over the world.
My clients have included children, adolescents, parents, and other adults struggling with mental health issues. I have worked with people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, eating disorders, and family dynamics. I also offer psycho-educational and psycho-emotional testing.
I help the expatriate community with the difficulties of transitions, cultural displacement, new employment adjustments, the challenges of being a third-culture teenager, and trailing spouses who often feel isolated and lack identity.
Key Strengths
I’m a skilled and compassionate listener – I quickly build relationships with my clients
I speak 3 languages – English, French, and Spanish so I can connect in the language that is more natural for you to communicate your emotions
My experience as an expat having lived in 8 countries gives me an understanding of different cultures, an ability to see life from different perspectives and to appreciate what it’s like adjusting to life in a new country
Having worked within school settings, I understand school dynamics and the impact of school life on children and adolescents
I know what it’s like to experience challenges in life, having experienced many myself where I found it helpful to seek support
I’m the parent of 2 grown children – I understand the challenges adolescents and their parents face
I follow strict ethical practices to ensure client safety
I’m confident in my work and create effective plans with clients, providing a sense of security that we’re on a clear path toward improving their lives
I only use therapy approaches that are supported by research
I constantly update my skills by participating in ongoing training
Clinical Psychology Education
Doctor of Psychology, PsyD, Clinical Psychology, California Southern University, California, USA
University Certificate in Psychology – University of Derby, United Kingdom
Note: Dr. Laura Ruesjas-Lukasik does not posses a medical or dental qualification
Psychologist License and Certification
Clinical Psychologist – France – License ADELI # 929339422
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC #10004664) Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)
Professional Memberships
Singapore Psychological Society – Full Membership FM022065L
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) – Professional Member
Are U OK? Suicide Prevention Association – Professional Member and Facilitator
American Group Psychotherapy Association – Professional Member
Positive Discipline Association (PDA) – Professional Member and Parent Educator
Group Psychotherapy Therapy training with the American Group Psychotherapy Association
Dr. George Hu, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Department Chair
Shanghai United Family Pudong Hospital
“Dr. Ruesjas-Lukasik has gone above and beyond to protect clients, improve their functioning, and maintain appropriate client boundaries. She is talented, an initiative taker, and full of energy and creative ideas. She is also responsible, trustworthy, and dependable.
She can tolerate the frustration and ambiguity that is necessary when working in a country that is not your own.
I’ve been especially struck by Dr. Ruesjas-Lukasik’s ability to provide psychotherapy and consultation to different types of people all over the world. She respects cultural conditions and educates herself regarding cultural expectations and differences.
Dr. Ruesjas-Lukaskik exemplifies a well-researched, evidence based, compassionate approach that adheres to the highest clinical, ethical, and moral standards.”
Personal Passions
I’m keenly interested in traveling, learning about different cultures, and making fantastic photo memories of my trips. I have lived in 8 countries, including Argentina, Vietnam, China, India, the USA, France, Canada, and Singapore.
I play the cello which helps me connect with myself and my family, as we all play instruments and often play together. I love reading and educating myself on different topics.
I am concerned for the environment and our youth and making life better for them in the years to come.
Key Strengths
