Lauren Belton, PhD

The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of New Orleans is delighted to welcome Dr. Lauren Belton, a Virginia-licensed clinical psychologist who will joining the clinic on August 24, 2026. Dr. Belton is dedicated to helping individuals navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, irritability, and the impacts of trauma. Her integrative, evidence-based approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions but is also grounded in warmth, authenticity, and practicality. She works with adults from all walks of life and is especially attuned to the ways personal identity, culture, and systemic factors shape mental health.

Academic and Professional Background:

Dr. Belton earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Howard University in 2021, following her Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida. Upon completion of her Ph.D., Dr. Belton served as a postdoctoral psychology trainee within the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) at the Columbus (Ohio) VA, where she provided evidence-based care to Veterans navigating complex emotional and behavioral concerns.

Finally, during her doctoral education, Dr. Belton was placed at the Center for Children and Family Traumatic Stress at Johns Hopkins University’s Kennedy Krieger Institute, where she received intensive training in child and adolescent assessment and evaluation.

This diverse academic training has equipped Dr. Belton with a comprehensive understanding of individual psychology and the broader forces in the community and in society that impact well-being. She has extensive experience providing care to individuals from a wide range of racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, with notable expertise working with people from ethnic, racial, sexual identity and gender minority communities. In all cases, Dr. Belton emphasizes cultural responsiveness, scientific rigor, and deep respect for each client’s unique life experiences.

While seeking licensure in Louisiana, Dr. Belton is clinically supervised by CBT NOLA’s Dr. Jenny Longwell.

Outside of her clinical work, Dr. Belton enjoys dancing, yoga, and spending time with her husband and extended family. She also loves exploring the vibrant city of New Orleans.