Laura Smith

Laura Smith is a Professor in the Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. She focuses on critical psychology, social inclusion, and emotional wellbeing, with a particular emphasis on poverty, classism, and racism. Her email is ls2396@tc.columbia.edu.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University
• M.S. in Counseling Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University
• B.A. in English and Psychology with High Distinction, University of Virginia

Smith’s research examines how psychological practice and theory marginalize low-income and racially minoritized populations. She advocates for participatory action research (PAR) to democratize knowledge production and address systemic inequities. Her work spans topics like epistemic injustice, Arab American women’s identity, and therapeutic practice in poverty contexts.

The 15 most recent articles reflect her expertise in race, class, and qualitative methodologies. Key trends include anti-racism in counseling, intersectional discrimination, and PAR as a tool for social change. She collaborates closely with graduate students and community partners through the Inclusive Inquiry Research Lab (IncLab).

Key Contributions:

• Editorship of books on diversity and poverty
• Leadership in PAR projects with schools and marginalized communities
• Advocacy for psychology’s role in structural change