Lauren Walden, LCSW, psychotherapist, young woman with long, wavy brown hair, smiling, wearing a blue denim shirt, standing outdoors with green foliage in the background.

Lauren Walden, LCSW

I completed my undergraduate degree at Cal State LA and my graduate degree at Boston College, focusing on Mental Health and Trauma. My post graduate work was primarily in medical social work, where I worked in palliative care and in the emergency room focusing on helping folks in mental health crises, addiction, and with complex, life limiting illnesses. I also spent time working in adult and adolescent psychiatric inpatient facilities. I saw firsthand the impact individual therapy had on patients in the clinical setting and it inspired the framework of my current practice. As a psychotherapist, I prioritize the individual needs of my clients and feel privileged to do this work.

LCSW# 110396

Trainings:

  • Trauma Certificate, Boston College

  • Complex Trauma Certification Training I, II

  • Gottman Method Level I

  • ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP)

  • Integrative Sex and Couples Certification

  • Gender Affirming Letter Writing - No More Gatekeeping

In addition to my education and experience, I have found it valuable to disclose the intersection of my identities, as a bi-cultural (Mexican-American), lesbian woman with my clients. I value working with others who are part of the LGBTQ+ community as well as those in periods of self-discovery and transitional stages. I spend my free time with my partner and our dogs, playing tennis, and working to build community with other providers in the area.

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Approach

I work from a relational standpoint with individuals, couples and adolescents to create a dynamic space in a process that encourages open dialogue, exploration of patterns, and the development of new ways to relate to oneself and others.

For individuals, this might involve examining past relationships and how those experiences influence current behaviors and thought processes. Couples therapy focuses on the interactive behaviors and communication styles that contribute to both harmony and conflict within the partnership. In working with adolescents, I prioritize building trust and understanding, allowing young clients to navigate the complexities of identity formation during a pivotal developmental stage.

Affirmation of LGBTQIA+ populations is integral to my approach. This affirmation goes beyond acknowledgment; it is a commitment to understand the unique challenges faced by my LGBTQIA+ clients, including societal prejudice and internalized stigma.

I ultimately aim to enhance emotional resilience, enrich relationships, and celebrate individual uniqueness.