Education
BA, Viola Performance,
Peabody Institute, Johns Hopkins University
Media & Press Influence
Featured Commentator:
Newsweek, NPR, CBS, NBC Radio, & The Boston Globe
NSSC Legacy
Founding State Policy Director;
Architect of State Expansion Model
National Leadership
Director of State Policy and Affiliate Development;
Co-Chair, Policy Action Committee
Core Expertise
AOT Advocacy & Legislation
National Member Onboarding
Strategic Narrative Development
Strategic Perspective
SMI Public Speaker & Artist

LAURA BALBONI craciun

DIRECTOR OF STATE POLICY AND AFFILIATE DEVELOPMENT |
​CO-CHAIR, POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE

Laura Balboni Craciun is a supporting architect of NSSC's State Director Network and Co-Chair of the Policy Action Committee (PAC). A pioneer in the coalition’s expansion, Laura served as the first-ever State Policy Director for NSSC, creating the tactical blueprint that has enabled the organization to scale into a national powerhouse with representation across the country.​

National Media Presence & Policy Influence
Laura is a prolific commentator on the ethical and legislative complexities of involuntary treatment and Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT). Her expertise has been featured across premier national and regional media outlets, including Newsweek, NPR’s On Point, CBS News, and The Boston Globe. As a frequent guest on high-impact platforms such as NBC Radio, 3 Moms in the Trenches, and the Mental Health Today podcast, she translates the clinical realities of psychosis and systemic gaps into a compelling national call for medical accountability.

Expansion & Strategic Mentorship
Drawing on her extensive experience navigating legislative landscapes and major media cycles, Laura now focuses on scaling NSSC’s national footprint. She serves as a vital mentor to new state directors, training emerging leaders on the coalition's digital infrastructure to ensure success across all of our states.
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Creative Advocacy & Clinical Insight
A graduate of the Peabody Institute of Music at Johns Hopkins University (BA in Viola Performance), Laura brings a sophisticated, artistic lens to systemic reform. As a professional artist (www.laurabalboni.com) and peer for SMI, she uses creative storytelling to humanize those marginalized by the current system. Beyond her national role, Laura leverages her lived experience as a caregiver and mother to advocate for those unable to speak for themselves.

To email Laura, click HERE.

Broadcast & Television

Major News & Features

Podcasts & Digital Media