About Lauren

Choosing the right counselor is important.  My approach is open and collaborative; working with you to explore reactions, emotional patterns, and thought processes. I encourage honest exchange at your own pace while providing you with tangible techniques to take into your life. Using a combination of empirically based modalities, while also being guided by a strong sense of intuition, I draw from various therapeutic theories and practices including solution focused, systems centered theory, attachment, and the neuroscience of emotional regulation and trauma.  From my background as a trained yoga teacher, I integrate mindfulness and body-centered approaches when appropriate. 

Clients I have worked with report feeling more aware of themselves, more connected with others, more confident in their choices as well as having a better ability to communicate with friends, family, and colleagues. I have helped individuals with depression, anxiety, frustration and anger, sadness, confusion, loss of job, eating disorders, relationship violence, sexual assault, pregnancy, parenting, and much more.  

My professional background includes two decades of experience in the conflict resolution field with a focus on assisting individuals and teams with workplace and academic concerns.  My work has given me extensive experience with people from various socio-economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds as well as LGBT individuals, couples, and families.   I have done, and continue to do, my own self-examination so that I can be clear and perceptive of others. The central theme of what I do has remained the same throughout my professional life; listening deeply and helping others see the choices in their lives. 

Current Licenses/ Certifications/ Affiliations

Licensed Clinical Social Worker # 97912, California, 2020-Present

EMDR Therapist, Training at the The Institute for Creative Mindfulness, 2018

Certified Level 1 TEAM-CBT Therapist, Training with Dr. David Burns, Feeling Good Institute,  2018

Faculty, Foundations Course through International Ombudsman Association, 2016-Present

Certified Organizational Ombudsperson Practitioner, 2011-Present

Education

Master of Science in Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, 2011

Master of Arts, Sociology, Portfolios in Dispute Resolution and Gender Studies, UT- Austin, 2006

Hogg Foundation for Mental Health Thesis Grant, 2005-2006

Bachelor of Arts, Behavioral Science & Law and Women's Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1999

Counseling, Coaching, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation Experience 

Ombudsperson, University of California-Davis, 2017-Present

Ombudsperson, University of California- Berkeley, 2013-2017

Counselor, Employee Assistance Program, City of Madison, 2012-2013 

Therapist, Sol Community Counseling, 2012 

Ombudsperson and Director, University of Texas at Austin, 2005-2012 

Therapist (internship), University of Texas Employee Assistance Program, 2010-2011   

Social Worker (internship), Austin Lakes Hospital, 2009-2010 

Crisis Relief Worker, SafePlace, 2005-2006

Educational Coordinator, Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation, 2002-2004

Women's Issues Director/ Executive Director, United Council of UW Students, 2003-2004

Housing Counselor, Tenant Resource Center and Housing Mediation Services, 1998-2000

Crisis Line Volunteer, Domestic Abuse Intervention Services, 1998-1999

While in a doctoral program researching health, I realized I felt the most content while conducting in-depth interviews and working directly with people.  I chose to change directions and pursue a degree that allowed me to gain clinical knowledge and skills to be a therapist. While already utilizing coaching strategies as an ombudsperson, I found my graduate studies in social work immensely helpful both theoretically and practically in working with people who were experiencing stress, crisis, and conflict. Being a counselor allows me to work closely and deeply with people to help them find more joy, freedom, and choice in their lives.  It is such an honor to be in a role that allows me to be with people in moments of stress, sorrow, as well as happiness and success.    

After a 15 minute free phone consultation, you will have the option to schedule an in-person, video, or telephone appointment. The initial session will help us get to know each other.  You can share whatever you like.  Typically sessions are 50 minutes but longer sessions are available.  I find some couples and individuals benefit from 75-100 minute sessions. 

Please inquire about fees for individual therapy, couples counseling, conflict resolution, and mediation services. I do offer a sliding scale for a limited number of clients who need a lower fee.  Cash, check, or credit card accepted at time of appointment.  I can offer a receipt for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement for part of the fee.  Please inquire if you are considering using insurance.

To cancel or reschedule an appointment, please contact me at least 14 days in advance. Cancellations or reschedules made less than 14 days in advance of the scheduled appointment as well as missed sessions will result in being charged for the session.  You will receive a Psychotherapy Agreement-Policies and Consent document with the policies in more detail.