Lauren Birtcher

I graduated with honors from National Louis University with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I received a bachelor’s degree in Special Education in 2013 from Walsh University in Ohio. I taught children with varying exceptionalities and learning differences for five years. I have over ten years of experience working with children and adults with autism, ADHD, and various learning disabilities.

I utilize interventions of various approaches to best assist my clients in accomplishing their individual goals. These approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I am also a certified yoga teacher.

My approach as a therapist begins with providing a safe environment where my clients can begin the process of finding peace and enjoyment in their lives again. I believe that therapy is most successful when the client feels heard and is able to trust in the process and their therapist. I focus on empowering my clients and providing them with what is needed by using techniques and approaches unique to each client.

Clients can expect a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in their first session, where the focus is on understanding their unique experiences and concerns. I prioritize creating a space where clients feel safe to share openly, explore their emotions, and identify what matters most to them. Together, we typically work on clarifying goals, understanding patterns in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and beginning to develop practical strategies for coping and personal growth. The first session is often about building trust, gaining clarity on challenges, and collaboratively setting a direction for therapy that aligns with the client’s values and needs.