LCSW, 22 years of experience
I believe that each of us, at one time or another, struggles with self-worth, coping with crises, interpersonal conflicts, or problematic behaviors. Depression, anxiety, and difficulty with relationships can really impair one's ability to be their best and to feel emotionally healthy and capable. When those times happen to you, it can help to have a caring therapist who understands, helps identify solutions, and doesn't judge. My style is to focus on the here and now, with practical strategies for making meaningful changes that fit you and your situation. I rarely dwell on the past, although at times it may lend helpful insight or identify patterns or beliefs that are affecting you today. My approach is to focus on strengths and solutions - without psychobabble. I am licensed in California, with over 20+ years of experience in helping individuals, couples, and families experiencing life changes, parenting challenges, family conflicts, relationship problems, or substance use issues. I also have expertise and experience working with people who are experiencing difficulties with recent or past traumatic experiences. Advanced Training: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
In our first session, you will have a chance to help me (and you) understand what the core issues are that you are facing. I will help you explore what you want to accomplish and explain how therapy works. We will begin to vision what a great outcome will look like. Also, you will have a chance to ask questions and interview me to make sure that you get the best possible fit in a therapist.
One of the things I will bring to our work is to focus on strengths - especially when you can't see them for yourself. I use everyday language and ideas, not jargon and psychobabble. I have a good sense of humor, and sometimes we just have to laugh. I believe in my clients and their own perceptions of what will work and what won't If you don't have faith in yourself, you can borrow my faith in you for as long as you need to. I'm not going to preach or scold, but rather coach, support, and cheer you on.
I've had some advanced training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I find that the skill-based focus on Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Emotional Regulation can provide an effective approach to many of life's challenges. I work from the core premise that people are doing the best that they can, and they need to do better.
Looking at how our thinking and belief systems can influence our emotional responses and behaviors can provide some valuable insights. Examining these thoughts can lead to a pathway forward that is identifiable and measurable.
Many people focus on what is wrong, with themselves and their situations and relationships. While there can be some value in that, I find it much more effective to look at strengths and abilities that already exist and then explore how to maximize and expand those strengths.
2 ratings with written reviews
April 30, 2025
Lauren is inspirational helping me find solutions to my many challenges. She provides information that I can research along with using the calm app. Working on my depression and anxiety, I completely feel confident confiding in her. Her encouragement inspires me to be more confident in my self each session, something I’ve not had in 40 years.
January 30, 2025
I have done therapy off and on since my youth - so easily 35 years or so. I have told my friends and family that Lauren is the best therapist I’ve ever had. She is engaging, challenging, empathetic, educated, and gives me real things to work on!