Directors

Rev. Rachel Fisher

Executive Director

In its tenth year of operation in 2022, ISLP welcomed Rev. Fisher. As Executive Director, Rev. Fisher is poised to lead ISLP in continuing its mission as it grows into its second decade. Rachel is passionate about guiding organizations to greater health in structure, functionality, community outreach, financial capacity, and missional vision. As an Ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church, she has developed her gifts through twenty years of leading the local church, as Co-Chair of The New England Conference of the UMC's Board of Ordained Ministry, and as Chair of the Board of Directors at Rolling Ridge Conference and Retreat Center in North Andover, MA.

Rev. Fisher can be reached by email at r_fisher@islpma.org.

Laura Bishop, MA, LICSW

Clinical Director, Clinical Supervisor

Originally from upstate New York, Laura received her Master’s in Pastoral Studies from Saint Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry in 2004. Boston College brought her to Massachusetts where she received a Masters of Social Work in 2014. Laura is comfortable meeting people wherever they are on their life journey and is willing to integrate spirituality and faith life into practice at the invitation of the Client. Laura has expertise working with children, teens, and adults who are survivors of trauma, as well as those living with adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, and other areas of psychological distress. She incorporates several modalities into therapy. Laura practices both individual as well as couples therapy. Laura believes that the ministry of presence and active listening are essential to helping people feel safe to share, learn, and grow on their path towards healing and wholeness.

Laura can be reached by email @ l_bishop@islpma.org

Rev. Laura Delaplain, PhD

Clinical Director Emerita, Licensed Psychologist

Laura served as Clinical Director for PCSSS through the end of 2023 and remains as a counselor within our practice. She co-founded the Institute for Spiritual Life and Psychotherapy in 2012 after serving 25 years as the Executive Director of the Norma Kent Pastoral Counseling Center at the United Church of Christ in Abington, MA. As an ordained minister and licensed psychologist, Dr. Delaplain brings to the Institute an interest in the spiritual health and development of individuals, families, and systems. Laura has been a clergy member of the New England Conference of the United Methodist Church since 1985, providing interim pastoral leadership to churches in transition. Laura offers Spiritual Direction, Practices of Meditation, and Professional Development through ISLP.