Hello and welcome! I’m so glad you have decided to take this step in creating meaningful change in your life. It takes effort and energy to realize that what you're doing right now isn't working and subsequently reach out for help. Maybe you've been feeling sad, anxious or have just been off for a long time now, or maybe this is a new experience you haven't had to deal with in the past. As your therapist, I'll help you stand back and examine your life more holistically. We can often feel as though our story is set in stone, and the role we're playing can't be changed. We get stuck thinking the same thoughts, acting the same as always. I'm here to help you take those steps towards meaningful and sustainable change.
I went to the George Washington University for my Master's Degree and am licensed as a professional counselor in Maryland. My background includes training and experience treating depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, and life transitions. I served in the military prior to entering the counseling field, so I'm very familiar with the challenges faced by today's veterans and their families. I've also spent several years living overseas and enjoy working with expats/international clients. My counseling style is warm, compassionate, engaging and direct. The therapeutic approach depends on the client and the presenting concerns, but I typically pull in elements of CBT/ACT while remaining focused on the relationship and emotions in the room.
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Body image, Commitment Issues, Eating and Food-Related Issues, Expats, Family of Origin Issues, Forgiveness, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Military and Veterans Issues, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Phobias, Pregnancy and childbirth, Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing
MD LCPC 8760
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Lauren Waikart. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Lauren has gotten me through some really tumultuous times in my life and I’m grateful for the new perspectives she helped me to find.
Written on Nov 17, 2022 after therapy with Lauren for 2 years and 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, lgbt, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
Lauren has been an integral part of my flourishing. Each session is rich & attentive. She has a knack for helping me find my blind spots. Would recommend.
Written on Sep 01, 2020 after therapy with Lauren for 3 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, lgbt, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, and adhd
Finally, the expertise and caring I’ve so desperately needed. Talking with Lauren always makes me feel better. She is equipping me with tools to cope and grow. Finally...
Written on Jun 09, 2020 after therapy with Lauren for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes