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About Lauren Vanchina

MSW, LICSW

she/her/hers
612-293-9056
Lauren Vanchina headshot.

An independent contractor.

Licensure

  • Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education

  • BA, Psychology, University of Iowa
  • MSW, University of Minnesota

Hi! I’m Lauren. The most frequent feedback I hear from clients is that I am vibrant, direct, compassionate, hopeful, and realistic as a therapist. Whether I’m working with children, teens, parents, or families, I believe the foundation of change lies in building an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship. I am passionate about creating a space where each person’s unique experiences, strengths, and goals are honored. Two tools I prioritize are play and exploring unidentified possibilities—when we are struggling with a new issue or old pattern, it’s natural that playfulness and hope shrink or disappear and are hard to get back, which can hold us back from making the changes we want! I’m trained and experienced in ways to unshrink the playfulness and the hope while also holding space for big feelings about what you’re facing. 

I have experience working with children and teens (and their families) on issues related to anxiety, mood disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, concerning behaviors, attachment disruption, adjustment to stressors, relationship difficulties, and the impacts of chronic stress and trauma

I have training in Integrated Attachment Family Therapy, Developmental Repair, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, relational psychotherapy, Systemic Family Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Theraplay, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, various forms of Play Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. I am working toward certification as a Registered Play Therapist. 

I’m happy to touch base for a free phone consultation to make sure I am the right fit for you or your family.

Outside of work, I really love spending time with friends and family outside, camping, kayaking, gardening, and letting my big dog pull me uphill on hikes.