Lauren Schmidt
LCSW, PEL

Senior Clinician

Master’s in Social Work
Loyola University Chicago

Lauren has been in practice for over 8 years, working as a School Social Worker at the school and district level before also becoming a Psychotherapist at Patterns and Threads over 4 years ago. Her experience supporting clients in the setting where they spend much of their time has given her a deep understanding of how our mental health and overall well-being are impacted by the larger systems that surround us. Lauren also knows how important it is to advocate for clients as well as provide education to those that support them. She has supervised other social workers and provided trainings for professionals, caregivers and community members on dealing with anxiety and depression, managing stress, understanding the Zones of Regulation and Social Thinking.

I believe that we all have the capacity to grow, learn, and make positive changes no matter what life throws our way. Sometimes, we need an objective and empathetic ear to guide us through life’s challenges. I provide a safe, collaborative and affirming space centered around your needs. My style is empathic, warm, and encouraging with a strong focus on genuineness - both mine and yours. I integrate structured interventions with open exploration and utilize client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to create a unique therapy experience.

I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, isolation, loss, change, family, and relationships. While we explore these deeper themes, I also help my clients build the day-to-day executive functioning skills to stay motivated, navigate emotional ups and downs and reach the goals they set for themselves.

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, yoga, playing tennis or volleyball and exploring nature. Currently, I am bringing a little nature indoors by expanding my house plant collection!