
LAUREN ALLSWEDE
Co-Founder
She/Her/Hers
People and animals say I'm easy to talk to, that I'm a good listener. And they're not wrong. I love the work I do and am privileged to work with so many amazing people. I take very seriously the responsibility to help and the need to connect. I want to heal trauma. Not cause trauma.
We can laugh together and cry together. We can talk about big deals and small potatoes - dig in to the heavy stuff and also be light-hearted. We can explore everything from the wiring of your brain to the wonders of the world.
I have been working in the field of trauma since 2003, beginning as a volunteer at a crisis center and as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. I received my Master's Degree of Social Work in 2007 and worked at the MSU Sexual Assault Program from 2008 - 2015. Since 2015, I have been in private practice.
My area of expertise is trauma, including sexual abuse and relationship violence, harassment, and attachment-related trauma. I also specialize in working with transgender adolescents and adults, many who need help and support as they navigate medical services. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, which research has shown to be an especially helpful treatment for complex trauma. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to treatment and particular style can change based on who I'm working with, but it is always trauma-informed, person-centered and evidence-based.
Our society often prescribes a narrow definition of happiness and success that makes it hard to ask for help, even harder to see strength and wisdom in suffering. But I believe our entire experience is important and gives meaning to who we are and how we find meaning in the world. I believe that people know the answers to their problems but often need a space to talk openly and honestly - to be heard and acknowledged. And chocolate - people need chocolate. I have that too.
I would love the opportunity to work with you. Give me a call or send me an email. If you're feeling extra fancy, current and interested clients can contact me on a secure web portal.
Insurances accepted include: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Priority Health, Sparrow PHP, McLaren, Meridian, and Magellan.