Shelby Laiche
Shelby Laiche is a highly accomplished rehabilitation professional and Senior Case Manager/Supervisor at Stokes & Associates, Inc., where she has served since 2016. With nearly a decade of experience in the field, Shelby specializes in case management, life care planning, and vocational rehabilitation. Her expertise is supported by multiple credentials, including Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor (LRC) Supervisor, and Certified Life Care Planner (CLCP). Through her work, she provides objective, evidence-based assessments and life care plans that support individuals facing complex medical and vocational challenges following an injury or disability.
Shelby earned her Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Rehabilitation and Counseling from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, following a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans. She is also currenting pursuing her PhD in Counselor Supervision and Education through the University of Holy Cross. At Stokes & Associates, Shelby contributes to a multidisciplinary team recognized as one of the Top Workplaces by The Times-Picayune and The New Orleans Advocate. The firm’s mission—to uphold fairness, integrity, and excellence in service—is reflected in Shelby’s dedication to her clients and colleagues. Her work not only supports equitable outcomes in litigation and rehabilitation but also embodies her commitment to helping individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
• Certified Life Care Planner
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
• Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor
• Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor Supervisor
• University of New Orleans
• Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my dedication to the work I do and my commitment to continuous professional growth. As a Senior Case Manager specializing in vocational rehabilitation and life care planning, I guide injured individuals through their next steps and long-term care needs. My work involves reviewing medical records, consulting with treatment providers, preparing detailed reports, and developing comprehensive life care plans. I also collaborate closely with allied health professionals to ensure each case is managed thoroughly and accurately. One of my most significant milestones has been earning my Life Care Planner certification, which has enhanced both the quality of my work and my credibility within the field. Reaching my ten-year mark in this profession is another achievement I’m especially proud of.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remain teachable. There is always more to learn in this profession, especially as medicine and rehabilitation practices continue to evolve. Stay curious, stay humble, and actively seek out mentors who can offer insight and guidance. The right mentor can open doors, provide invaluable perspective, and shape the entire course of your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been losing the daily mentorship of the expert witness I worked closely with after she suffered a brain aneurysm in 2021. Her guidance had a profound impact on my professional development, and her absence reminded me how valuable strong mentorship truly is. This experience also created an opportunity for growth — it pushed me to take greater initiative, expand my knowledge independently, and commit to continuous learning in both the medical and legal aspects of my work.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are dedication and balance. I believe in working hard and giving my best effort to everything I do, both professionally and personally. At the same time, I deeply value the moments I get to spend with my husband — even though finding that time can be challenging while pursuing my PhD. Striving for excellence while nurturing meaningful relationships keeps me grounded and motivated.