Laurette Hayden: Hollywood Roots, Career in Television, Mental Health Advocacy, Personal Life, Family, and Legacy

May 15, 2025
Laurette Hayden’s journey is a compelling blend of Hollywood heritage, executive leadership, and heartfelt dedication to mental health. Born into a family of entertainment legends, she carved her own unique path—first as a television executive and later as a respected therapist. Her story is one of reinvention, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others.

This post delves into the life of Laurette Hayden, including her career, advocacy work, family, and continued impact. Now, let’s get started.

Hollywood Roots and Early Life

Born on July 19, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, Laurette Hayden is the daughter of Academy Award-winning actress Eva Marie Saint and director Jeffrey Hayden. Growing up amidst the glamour of Hollywood, she was exposed to the entertainment industry from an early age. Despite this, Laurette pursued her own interests, eventually earning a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and a master’s in clinical psychology from Antioch University.

A Successful Career in Television

Before transitioning to therapy, Laurette made significant strides in the television industry. She held executive positions at major networks, including serving as Vice President of Original Movies at HBO and Lifetime Television. In 2004, she was appointed Senior Vice President of Long-Form Programming at USA Network, where she was responsible for developing original movies and miniseries.

Transition to Mental Health Advocacy

After a successful career in television, Laurette shifted her focus to mental health. She became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Her work includes roles as a clinical specialist at UCLA’s Department of Neurology and as a mental health consultant for the Epilepsy Foundation.

Therapeutic Approach and Specializations

Laurette’s therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from various modalities to meet her clients’ unique needs. She is trained in:

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Somatic Experiencing
  • Internal Family Systems
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Mindfulness
  • Gottman Method for couples counseling

This diverse toolkit allows her to address a wide range of psychological issues effectively.

Personal Life and Family

Laurette has been married to writer and producer Miles Beller since October 20, 1985. The couple has one child, a son named Eli Charles Beller, born on March 26, 1990. Despite her professional commitments, Laurette places great importance on family, often attending events with her mother and son, showcasing the close-knit nature of their family.

Legacy and Continued Impact

Laurette Hayden’s multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to storytelling and healing. Whether through developing compelling television narratives or providing therapeutic support, she has consistently aimed to make meaningful connections. Her journey from the entertainment industry to mental health advocacy serves as an inspiring example of personal growth and dedication to service.