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Lauren Van Vranken, M.A. |
It is often said that we are our own worst critic. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned in life is to be curious, not judgmental – especially toward myself. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?”, I believe it’s more important to explore what’s happening inside of you with gentleness and curiosity. I am convinced there is wisdom in our bodies that is meant to provide us with the ability to learn from our internal experiences (even the scary ones) and guide us toward a healthier life. Learning to see yourself more fully requires self-compassion, or choosing to hold yourself and your most painful experiences with tenderness, rather than overly identifying with them or avoiding them. It is my goal to walk alongside you, wherever you may be in your journey, and get curious together about your strengths, values, and anything interfering with your overall well-being. I believe the answers are already within you; it is my hope that through our work, we will uncover pathways that support you in living from the wisdom of your body — not limited by anxious thoughts, depression, or traumatic experiences, but living a connected, full, and healthy life.
Education & Training
Lauren Van Vranken, MA earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary’s School of Psychology in Pasadena, CA. She is currently a doctoral student in Fuller’s Psy.D. program and is involved in research that examines physiological and spiritual practices of regulation and resilience in response to trauma.
Lauren is trained in evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and psychodynamic therapy. She has experience working with adolescents and adults from diverse cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Specifically, Lauren works with individuals to address relational issues, adjusting to life changes, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and serious mental illness. Lauren also works with individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, including conducting comprehensive trauma assessments to advocate for mental health diversion. In addition to clinical training with individuals in community mental health and inpatient settings, Lauren spent a decade working in prison and juvenile halls in Los Angeles and Ecuador facilitating creative writing and art therapy groups. Lauren joined Downtown Mind Wellness in July 2023.
Lauren Van Vranken is a Registered Psychological Associate (PSB94027108) under the supervision of Dylan Ramos, Psy.D., (PSY29558).
Lauren Van Vranken, MA earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary’s School of Psychology in Pasadena, CA. She is currently a doctoral student in Fuller’s Psy.D. program and is involved in research that examines physiological and spiritual practices of regulation and resilience in response to trauma.
Lauren is trained in evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and psychodynamic therapy. She has experience working with adolescents and adults from diverse cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Specifically, Lauren works with individuals to address relational issues, adjusting to life changes, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and serious mental illness. Lauren also works with individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, including conducting comprehensive trauma assessments to advocate for mental health diversion. In addition to clinical training with individuals in community mental health and inpatient settings, Lauren spent a decade working in prison and juvenile halls in Los Angeles and Ecuador facilitating creative writing and art therapy groups. Lauren joined Downtown Mind Wellness in July 2023.
Lauren Van Vranken is a Registered Psychological Associate (PSB94027108) under the supervision of Dylan Ramos, Psy.D., (PSY29558).