Lauren Christensen Parker, Ph.D.

Individuals often seek out therapy looking for symptom relief (e.g., a decrease in down mood or anxiety). There are a number of evidence-based strategies to do just that. However, in my practice, I strive to go beyond just symptom reduction and help individuals not just survive life but actually thrive, grow, and have more fulfillment in the process. Whether it is relationship issues, anxiety, depression, infertility, grief, trauma, or adjusting to various transitions/changes in life that led you to consider therapy, I would love the opportunity to help you take steps towards an authentic life worth living. Reaching out for help is a strength that is often overlooked. I know there are a number of providers to choose from and the search for a therapist can be daunting. I hope that by reading more about how I work and collaborate with clients, you will have a better sense of how I help and encourage individuals towards growth and positive change. The first step of the therapy journey is building a trusting, collaborative relationship. You will find me curious, supportive, direct, at times humorous and above all authentic and non-judgmental. I use an individualized, intentional, innovative, and integrated approach to develop happier relationships and reach more satisfying life goals that are aligned with your values. Because I believe there are as many ways to solve a problem as there are people with problems, I use a combination of cognitive, acceptance-based, and psychodynamic theories and approaches to help clients create the life they want. I earned my Ph.D. from George Mason University and completed my training at the Washington, D.C. Veterans Affairs Medical Center. I have worked as a staff psychologist with the Department of Defense and State Department. I know personally the concerns around protecting a security clearance and what it is like to uproot and move both domestically and internationally, with and without a family in tow. I also have authority to practice interjurisdictional telepsychology (APIT) granted by the PSYPACT Commission. If you would like to learn more about how I can help you, please book a free consultation with me through the "Request Appointment" section. If another therapist may better serve you, I'm happy to provide referrals and recommendations for trusted colleagues.