Lauren Manola

Hello! I am Lauren Manola, owner and Co-Founder of Ripple Effect Center. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned my Master of Social Work through Loyola University Chicago. After years of working in the school setting, I saw the need to create a space where folks can slow down and feel safe enough to connect with all parts of themselves. So often, it seemed that the pace of day to day obligations and expectations from others made recognizing and addressing personal needs nearly impossible.

I am passionate about working with adults and adolescents on identifying the strengths and stressors showing up in their lives and how best to meet them.

As a dedicated professional, mother and wife, I bring a relatable and down-to-earth approach to my work. I appreciate the complexities of life and offer insight and guidance with warmth and authenticity.

Through over a dozen years of experience working with adults, families, and adolescents from a variety of backgrounds, I have developed a compassionate and authentic approach. I value the humanity and lived experience of those I meet and can help clients explore their stories in meaningful ways. I am passionate about the mind-body connection and helping clients understand how past experiences impact the present day. I integrate principles from somatic therapy, parts work, dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to support meaningful and lasting change. I have years of experience walking alongside those overwhelmed by relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use issues, life transitions and parenting. With empathy and support, I encourage clients to explore their thought, behavioral and relational patterns while providing practical tools to do so- always honoring their preferred ways of being.

In our first meeting, the goal is quite simply to provide a space to share what feels both important and safe. Starting (or re-starting) therapy can often feel big or overwhelming. Our work together needs to begin exactly where you are today. Meeting you, learning where you are on your journey and hearing what you hope to see shift or align can be a great beginning.