Lauren Doran

Hello there!

I work with clients who are caught in shame-based narratives, are navigating a life or relationship transition, feel stuck, or are trying to make sense of themselves or a relationship following a traumatic event or significant rupture.

I believe my role as a therapist is to be a skilled and knowledgable collaborator, not being a "fixer." I am strengths-based and believe in celebrating small, yet meaningful steps. I like to be a "hope detective" and see what we can unexpectedly find together. Clients have told me me they appreciate my deep, thoughtful questions and advocating for more self-compassion, I believe in the power of dialectical "both/and" thinking, and holding space for multiple parts of ourselves to make sense of the complexity of your experience.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and support individuals, couples and families. I graduated from Seattle University and have additional training in EMDR, IFS and play therapy.

As a systems-trained therapist, my approach is grounded in viewing you within the context of your intersectional identity. We will explore the impact various systems have had on your sense of self, relationships with others, and the broader world. I am skilled at identifying core beliefs and processes that maintain problems within oneself and relationships. I am a creative person, and I welcome clients discussing and sharing original or meaningful art, music, writing, religious/spiritual practices that are supportive resources.

While therapy can be intense, I believe laughter and humor is important! My hope is to build upon your strengths and make a genuine connection and really get to know, hear and see the authentic you.

My approach is informed by experiential models of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, EMDR and Bowenian theories. I frequently integrate imagery, somatic awareness, and use of metaphors.

I understand therapy can feel weird and awkward at first- I am a stranger and have to earn your trust! I value clients feeling safe and having agency in session, so I will ask for consent to talk about a variety of topics and check in to see how your body, emotions, and thoughts are giving you valuable information in the here-and-now. I will work with you to find a comfortable pace for you to share your story. My goal is to help you feel seen and heard through my warmth and curiosity.

If you think I could be a good fit, I invite you to set up a consultation! I can't wait to get to know you!