Lauren LaDere

LPC, CFRC

A smiling woman with shoulder-length wavy red hair, wearing a black sleeveless top, gold necklace, and a nose ring, in front of a bookshelf filled with books.

Hi there, I’m Lauren

People deserve to feel seen and have space to show up as their most authentic selves.

In my therapeutic approach, I prioritize building a safe, compassionate, and honest environment that empowers clients to create meaningful change, foster resiliency, and utilize practical tools to navigate trauma and stressors in daily living.

With that, I also encourage laughter, directness, and connection- I want to ensure that therapy feels
supportive and real. Healing is not a linear process, and I strive to walk alongside my clients with empathy and transparency, meeting them where they are while challenging them to grow.

My experience is heavily rooted in chronic illness, disability, PTSD and C-PTSD, elite performers (college and semi-professional athletes), queer folks, veterans, active-duty military, and first responders. I have a background in vocational rehabilitation, mental performance counseling, and crisis and trauma work. I also am trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization & Re-Processing (EMDR) and Brainspotting (BSP).

My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can share your story, gain clarity, and feel seen as the person you truly are and want to be. Every time we work together, you will always be met with compassion, respect, and a cup of coffee.

Reaching out is one of the hardest steps, and it’s a privilege to be someone you consider taking that step with!

Locations:
Libertyville, IL
Telehealth

Modalities

EMDR
Brainspotting
Somatic Therapy
DBT
ACT
Person-Centered
Strengths-Based

Specialties

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Complex Trauma
Disability & Chronic Illness
PTSD/PTSI
First Responders
LGBTQIA+
Athletes/Performance
Anxiety
ADHD
Depression

Education & Certifications

Adler University – Master of Arts in Counseling: Specialization in Clinical
Rehabilitation Counseling (2024)
Adler University - Master of Science in Sport and Human Performance (2024)
University of Massachusetts, Amherst – Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2021)
Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC)
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) –In Progress
Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) - In Progress

THE LIVING PONO APPROACH

in life, Pono stands for righteousness and balance

In Hawaiian, if a person is living Pono, it means that they have struck the right balance within themselves, with other things, places, and the people in their lives.

We take that same approach when helping you to grow.

to help you to begin Living Pono