Many people walk around for years needing help for their anxiety and depression but avoid therapy because they think they "should" be able to manage it on their own. No one should have to suffer alone. The fact is, we are human and we all need help from time to time. With compassion, warmth and support, I will walk with you through your struggles and help you untangle the mess that is sometimes life. You are not broken and you are capable of change. If you struggle with anxiety or depression including social anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, excessive worrying, irritability related to parenting, employment or relationships - I'm here to help you achieve a sense of steady calm to manage all that life throws at you. My clients often struggle with crippling self-defeating thoughts that create a vicious cycle of isolation, loneliness, stress and feeling overwhelmed. I can help break that cycle and empower you to develop a new path forward to achieve what you have not wanted to face alone. When you schedule with me, I may reach out by phone to complete a brief screening to make sure I can meet your needs and send you the needed paperwork. Please know I currently work weekdays and do not have evening or weekend availability. I do not specialize or work with couples or children. I look forward to talking to you!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session together, we will talk about what's been troubling you the most including what brought you to therapy, your family of origin, any previous experiences in therapy (what's worked/what hasn't), what your hopes are for how therapy will help and what my plan would be for reaching your goals. Then we will collaboratively discuss if I am the best fit for what you are looking for - you get to interview me! The most important part of finding a therapist is someone who makes you feel comfortable, safe and who is qualified to support your change efforts.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I hear from many people that previous therapists were good at listening but didn't provide tangible solutions. I consider myself to be a supportive, compassionate listener and I am also able to gently challenge and encourage you to make the change necessary to feel better. My style is casual and warm and I also discuss strategies to practice outside of session. This is your time - let's make the most of it!

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety about past or future events. I help people make sense of events they've lived through to reduce fear or approach the future with confidence.

About Lauren Markley