Laurie graduated from the University of Puget Sound with a Master of Physical Therapy in 1991. She practiced neurologic physical therapy for five years in a variety of settings before accepting a faculty position in a physical therapy program. Laurie taught neurologic and geriatric physical therapy courses for ten years at schools in Michigan and California, and at the same time, she completed a PhD in Applied Experimental Psychology from Central Michigan University, and a completion Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Puget Sound.
More recently, Laurie has gained expertise in marketing and management in the corporate sector by establishing and managing a fall prevention program for the elderly. Laurie has several publications in peer-reviewed journals, has presented at national and international conferences, and has been teaching continuing education courses throughout the United States since 2003.