Meet Lauren Meeks
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My Background
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am dedicated to bringing a wealth of compassion, expertise, warmth, and safety to my therapy practice. Initially specializing in school social work with children and teens, I have now fully devoted myself to my private practice, and embrace the virtual realm to connect with individuals across the lifespan.
If you are finding it hard to connect in your relationships, enjoy the things that you used to, are struggling to control worry, are feeling bad about yourself, or having difficulty coping after a stressful experience, I am here to help. I specialize in treating folx with complex trauma, depression, and anxiety. In addition to my core focus areas, I enjoy working with individuals dealing with grief/loss, ADHD, and OCD. I strive to recognize the unique challenges presented in your internal and external world, and provide support tailored to your specific needs. ​​
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Outside of my practice, I find joy in exploring the world, eating delicious foods, participating in community activism and care, and connecting with nature.
What to Expect
I find it meaningful to guide you into seeing the expertise you have of your own inner world, and honoring the strength and wisdom that you bring with you. I offer learned skills and reflections to use outside of the therapy room for those who are interested, and collaborate with your other providers when appropriate.
​During our sessions, I focus not just on the mind, but how your somatic symptoms play out and provide mindfulness-based activities to use inside and outside of our sessions. I may offer therapeutic skills stemming from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and play therapy, amongst others, depending on your needs. ​
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Education, Licenses & Certifications
Loyola University Chicago, Master of Social Work
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker
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Professional Educator License
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Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Theraplay Level 1, Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT)