About
Lauren Berger
When life is hard, sometimes it feels like there is no relief. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or stress, life can feel like running a marathon in a rainstorm! By using psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, and Guided Relaxation, I tailor my approach to your specific needs and goals. I will work with you to help improve your quality of life by teaching you to better cope with challenging experiences, unhelpful thoughts, and overwhelming emotions. It’s so common to feel like you’re losing yourself when feeling like you can’t cope. I’m here to teach you how to cope so you can enjoy a fulfilling and meaningful life, and find joy once again. I’ll help you understand how your past circumstances and experiences have led you to where you are now, and how to get where you want to go with your life.
I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Member of The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). I am also a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Wurzweiler School of Social Work in New York. Social Work is covered by most Extended Healthcare Plans; please check your individual plan to understand what coverage you may have.
I have a special interest in helping those with all chronic illnesses, particularly those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). I have developed a deep understanding and awareness of the emotional and psychological toll that living with chronic illness takes. I have over 15 years of professional experience, and I love sharing my expertise with others. I am dedicated to helping people with chronic illness and people struggling with stress live their lives feeling more secure, in control, happier, and with an increased sense of wellbeing.
Let’s Talk About Anxiety & Depression
It’s a feeling most people dread: a deep-seated worry that leads to upsetting or scary thoughts, and uncomfortable physical symptoms (racing heartrate, feeling sick to your stomach, sweating, or tight chest). Anxiety symptoms can keep us safe if there is true danger, but can be debilitating when we’re just trying to live life. Understanding why your anxiety levels are elevated is the first step in bringing them down to a suitable, manageable level. I’ve got the tools to make it make sense and to help you minimize unneeded anxiety symptoms.
Similarly, depression can feel debilitating when it keeps you from doing the things you need or love to do. Whether your symptoms point to situational depression (health diagnosis, loss of a loved one, poor self-esteem) or clinical depression (feeling sad, angry, hopeless, empty, and lack of interest with no “real reason” why), it can be so hard to find the will to keep going. Diving deep to discover how your mind has processed old thought patterns, traumas, or beliefs points us in the right direction to help resolve issues and cope with symptoms effectively. Understanding the roles of mood hormones, neural pathways (the connections we make in the brain), and our behaviours are part of the process we can use to minimize symptoms and help you lead a fulfilling, meaningful life.