Laura Choate

Laura H. Choate, the Jo Ellen Levy Yates Professor in Counselor Education at Louisiana State University's School of Education, is a leading expert in girls’ and women’s mental health. Her work spans depression, eating disorders, and ethical counseling practices.

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, University of Virginia (1990)
• Master's Degree in Psychology, Hollins College (1992)
• EdD in Counselor Education, College of William and Mary (1997)

Dr. Choate’s research focuses on mental health challenges across the lifespan, particularly addressing body image resilience in adolescents and college women. She has developed frameworks for ethical counseling and gender-sensitive interventions.

Her recent publications emphasize mindfulness-based treatments, gender equity, and the intersection of cultural pressures with mental health. Articles highlight adolescent depression, eating disorder diagnostics, and legal-ethical counseling practices.

Scientific Awards:

• 2016 LSU Distinguished Faculty Award
• 2014 College of Human Sciences & Education Distinguished Research Award
• 2012 ACA Best Practices Award

Dr. Choate serves on the American Counseling Association Ethics Committee and has authored guidelines for Louisiana’s Licensed Professional Counselors Board. She maintains an active role in counselor education and community advocacy through her Psychology Today blog.