Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Coping Skills
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Lauren
Lauren Shaak is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and seniors manage anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction, stress, and self-esteem challenges. She offers individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are open, motivated, and ready to change their lives for the better. Lauren believes treatment should invite discussion of diverse issues, needs, and goals, and that a positive dynamic between therapist and client is key. The ability to connect with all clients is at the heart of her philosophy of care.
Lauren has a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Alvernia University. She utilizes a variety of approaches including acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy, culturally sensitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.
Starting therapy can be daunting, but the healing journey doesn’t have to be scary. Lauren offers a space to be seen, heard, and validated at a time when feelings of fear and vulnerability may be at their peak. Please consider the benefits of beginning a healing, therapeutic journey with a counselor who can offer support, empathy, and perspective.
"As a provider and receiver of therapy, I recognize that asking for help is the hardest and bravest thing many of us will ever do in our lives."
Get to know Lauren
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I entered the helping field to give back something of what has been given to me over the course of my own journey in counseling.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients who are motivated, open, and honest in their engagement with therapy.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am excited to work with clients who are ambivalent about how therapy can help them.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
Counselors and therapists often struggle with the same issues as their clients.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
The hybrid model of treatment is interesting and helps more clients get access to much needed care.
What inspires you?
Personally, my mother and children inspire me. Professionally, I am inspired by the moments when clients reach and/or exceed their own goals and expectations.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Clients can expect to learn about me, about my style of therapy, and about the therapeutic process in general. Clients can also expect to give voice to their presenting concerns and goals for therapy.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
The goal is to get to know as much about the individual as possible, as quickly as possible, in order to build trust and rapport.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
It is possible to do good, serious work while also taking a lighthearted, positive approach to therapy.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I read, cook, watch sports, listen to music, and spend time with my family.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
My children
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 4 years
- Graduating institute
- Alvernia University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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