Lauren Cruickshank, LMSW

I am an ivy-league trained, holistic psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping adults with dysfunctional childhoods regulate their nervous systems and reconnect with their connection to self.

Life's disruptions can leave us feeling emotionally and physically stuck, pulling us out of alignment with who we truly are. When we're operating from a place of survival, it's difficult to experience the joy, connection, and sense of possibility that make life meaningful.

My therapeutic philosophy is simple: you were made to do more than simply survive—you were made to thrive. Healing isn't about becoming someone new; it's about reconnecting with the parts of yourself that have always been there beneath the weight of stress, trauma, and life's challenges.

I blend Ivy League training with real-world clinical experience and genuine compassion to create a space where you feel deeply seen, understood, and supported. I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fordham University and my Master of Social Work from Columbia University. I also hold a Level II certification in Usui Reiki and have received training in Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My work is grounded in an integrative approach that honors the connection between the mind, body, and spirit.

I have a special passion for working with high-achieving adults whose perfectionism was shaped by having to grow up too soon. Maybe you had a parent struggling with chemical dependency or severe mental illness, experienced a high-conflict divorce, or found yourself taking on adult responsibilities as a child. You may identify as the "responsible one," the "mom" or "dad" friend, or the person everyone assumes has it all together. On the outside, your life may look successful, but internally you feel exhausted, disconnected from yourself, or unsure how to slow down. Together, we'll explore the patterns that once helped you survive and create space for a life that's driven by authenticity rather than obligation.

Outside of the therapy room, you'll usually find me spending time with my fiancé and our Bernese Mountain Dog, Topanga, practicing yoga, reading, or knitting.

Wherever you are in your journey, I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you reconnect with yourself and create a life that feels grounded, meaningful, and truly your own.