Lauren “Wren” Parsons

About Wren:

• Offering Individual Counseling Services

• Taking In-person and Telehealth Appointments

• LGBTQ2sIA+ affirming and informed

• Neurodivergent affirming

• Sex Positive

• Kink informed

• Polyamory and Ethical Non Monogamy (ENM) affirming

Techniques:

• IFS (Internal Family Systems)

• TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

• Trauma-sensitive mindfulness

• Bodywork and Somatic Experiencing (BASE)

• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

• EFCT (Emotion Focused Couples Therapy)

• Hold Me Tight (group therapy)

• Strengths based

• SFBT (Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy)

Areas of Specialization:

• Adults

• Mental and Physical Health

• Life Transitions

• OCD

• ADHD

• Anxiety Therapy

• Crisis Management

“The process of living is like taking a very long road trip. The destination may be important, but the journey experienced day to day and week to week is what is invaluable.” Steven C. Hayes

It can be difficult to feel connected to ourselves, to others, or to the world around us when the road gets bumpy or the path is unclear. When we feel disconnected, anxious or overwhelmed therapy can help us find a new approach. The path to feeling more connected, at ease and grounded starts with small shifts. My hope is that together we can be curious about what that path might be. 

I have always been interested in the human experience and condition. I attended the University of Iowa School of Social Work, where I earned my Bachelors and Masters degrees. I began my social work career working with adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities. During the 25-year gap between my degrees, I raised three amazing children and began a career as a trauma-sensitive, neuro-informed Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) in 2017.  

The principle that guides both my massage and therapy practices is that each of us have the innate capacity for healing. We possess all of the inner resources and wisdom we need to grow in the directions we want to. My job is more than bringing clinical expertise and experience to my clients; as important is my attunement to and curiosity about my clients.  I want to hear what you have to say and how you feel; who else could possibly know better what your experience is like?

My personal style as a therapist can be described as direct, collaborative, and strengths focused. I primarily use an IFS, Emotionally Focused, and ACT approach. My process is  rooted in somatic therapy, liberation psychology, and ecological system theories. When I’m not hyperfocusing on my research obsession, I love hiking with my doodle and friends. I have recently started foraging and cooking wild food. I also enjoy making art or listening to music with my kiddos and loved ones.