Lauren Vanchina, LICSW

Therapist and Practice Owner

Well hi there! I’m Lauren. I work with children (ages 2+), teens, couples, and adults on navigating stress, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, panic, attachment disruptions, and life transitions.

How can I help you? While I’m trained in several therapeutic modalities (listed below), the heart of my practice is creative, empathetic, and effective problem-solving that doesn’t try to move quickly or ignore nuance and context. Together, we’ll identify your unique strengths and use them as a foundation for meaningful change. When you're processing difficult experiences or sitting with tough emotions, I offer empathy, understanding, and compassionate accountability to help you move toward your goals. I bring expertise in using the science of play across the lifespan, which not all therapists know how to do!

Why do I do this work? I’m a self-proclaimed "big ol’ nerd" about human relationships—starting with each individual’s connection with themselves, and expanding out to the web of relationships that make up families, partnerships, and communities. I’m deeply inspired by the transformation that can happen in therapy; I’m honored to walk with clients on their journeys.

I am focused on upholding an anti-racist, LGBTQ+ affirming, and culturally responsive space in which clients feel seen and respected. I keep open lines of communication with clients about how that is feeling for them.

Outside of work, I love knitting ridiculously simple projects, spending time with friends and family outdoors, camping, swimming, kayaking, gardening, and letting my very large dog pull me uphill on long, muddy hikes.

Education

BA Psychology, University of Iowa

Masters in Social Work, University of Minnesota

Training

Emotion Focused Couple Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy (Level 1), Developmental Repair, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Psychotherapy, Systemic Family Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Integrated Attachment Family Therapy, Theraplay (Foundational Theraplay Practitioner Certification), Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy.

I am working toward certification as a Registered Play Therapist.