I believe therapy success is largely related to the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Therefore it is my practice to choose a therapy approach that best fits the client's personality and style. I work with clients to blend the best approach and believe there can be balance between counseling and coaching at times during the process.
Psychotherapeutic Counseling:
A therapist is often thought of as a professional that you can go to when you need to talk or vent about issues or life and relationship stressors. However, I believe therapists are actually responsible to help guide their clients towards awareness and change. There is no question that through the venting and talking a bond between therapist and client is made which is a significant foundation for success. My therapeutic approach is to be more concrete in developing self-awareness, in session interventions, having therapeutic goals and homework outside of the sessions. I believe in blending therapeutic techniques to fit the client's personality and style which generally move along a process of building self-awareness, acceptance of self, and finally implementing lasting positive change in your life. Some of my preferred techniques are Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brief Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
Change Coaching:
Due to my diverse background I have significant expertise in assisting clients through change, adjustment periods or hard decisions; personal and professional.
Coaching is different from consulting, mentoring, advice, therapy, or counseling. The coaching process addresses specific personal projects, business successes or adversities, general conditions and transitions in the client's personal life, relationships or profession by examining what is going on right now, discovering what your obstacles or challenges might be, and choosing a course of action to make your life be what you want it to be. The process is different from individual therapy sessions:
- Complimentary consultation to determine fit
- 60 minute "Planning" first session, generally in person
- 30-60 minute phone call or video conference per week
- Unlimited Email support
- Occasional brief check-in calls
Coaching is a designed alliance between coach and client where the coaching relationship continually gives all the power and decisions to you, the client. I believe you don't have to do it alone. Having a coach as a resource, sounding board, listener, and motivator can make the most daunting challenges fun to work through.
“As a young professional in an extreme marital circumstance, I was lucky enough to find Lauren as a therapist. She supported me, guided me, and enlightened me on how to manage my situation. But most amazingly, she enabled me to see the possibility of a better outcome and to appreciate all the good that was waiting for me when I gained clarity on my life goals. To find a therapist who is wise, witty, and compassionate is a rarity. Don’t miss this opportunity. ”
“As a therapist Lauren understood me and my anguish from day one and gives me the mental tools and guidance to change my life’s direction and not get hung up on my past beliefs. ”
“Lauren’s style is direct and to the point and results oriented. She is not like many therapists who you are in rounds of infinity therapy. She gives straight acting plans and is really good at what she does.”