Lauren believes our experiences shape how we interact with ourselves and others. She believes increasing self-understanding is a powerful tool to increase our freedom to choose how we react and respond to people, situations, and life events. Lauren was born and raised in Montana and earned her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Montana State University. Prior to returning to school in pursuit of a degree in counseling, Lauren earned a Master of Science in Special Education from Grand Canyon University and taught K-5 special education.
While teaching, Lauren became aware of her deep compassion and empathy for others and her appreciation of the astounding resiliency of people. Lauren was inspired to pursue a career in counseling by her students and their families and out of her desire to help people discover their inner strength.
Lauren works collaboratively with individuals, incorporating psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, attachment, and developmental perspectives to meet each person where they are at. Lauren believes in the value of developing a trusting relationship in which people can explore struggles and work toward their aspirations to grow and change.