Lauren Packer, LPC, NCC earned her B.S. in Psychology from Birmingham-Southern College and her M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Alabama. With 5+ years of experience as a therapist, she specializes in trauma, grief, prevention education, and domestic violence, working with children, teens, and adults. Passionate about mental health advocacy in the Black community, Lauren focuses on creating safe spaces for teen girls. She founded Packer Counseling, LLC in Hoover, Alabama in 2022 to provide compassionate, culturally competent care. Her approach helps clients explore their thoughts and feelings, embrace change, and celebrate progress over perfection.

Hi, I'm Clarissa 'Shawn', and let me start by saying, "Way to go.... you're here and I'm glad to see you made it today." I want to commend you for taking the initiative to begin the therapy process. You've taken the first step towards inner clarity and understanding, which is a path to healthier balance and overall well-being. We all know that pain is unavoidable in life and allowing me the opportunity to walk with you – to help carry that burden in a space of non-judgmental intent and unconditional support – is truly an honor.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work. I specialize in supporting women who are carrying the weight of the world—juggling responsibilities, managing emotional wounds, and trying to hold it all together. My approach is rooted in compassion, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based practices. I create a space where women feel safe to unpack their pain, process life’s challenges, and reconnect with their inner strength. My goal is to help you move from surviving to thriving—on your terms.

I am a Christian-informed therapist licensed in multiple States. With a background in clinical social work and a desire to see the building up of the body of Christ, I am passionate about supporting and encouraging my brothers and sisters as they seek to navigate the difficulties of life and develop resilience that can lead to personal healing and spiritual growth. My areas of expertise include managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, faith formation, identity and purpose, peer relationships, transitional challenges, conflict resolution, forgiveness, etc.