Lauren, the heart and soul behind GentlePsych, stands as a testament to what happens when profound personal experience meets professional expertise. With a unique background that marries a B.S. in Nursing from Vanderbilt University with a deeply human approach to psychiatry, she has transformed GentlePsych into a haven where mental health care transcends traditional boundaries. Lauren's journey to founding GentlePsych was fueled by her innate desire for connection and belonging, alongside a critical realization that true healing comes from a blend of therapy and medication management—a practice often overlooked in pursuit of profit.

Lauren's approach to patient care is revolutionary. She believes in an egalitarian relationship with her patients, where empathy, creativity, and teamwork lead the way to solving complex psychiatric problems. She insists, "I don't deserve to be on this side of the couch unless I have already been on your side," highlighting a philosophy grounded in mutual understanding and respect.

Her vision for GentlePsych is ambitious and community-centered. Lauren envisions the practice as a pillar in the community, actively participating in parades, sponsoring youth sports, and offering group therapy sessions tailored to diverse needs. This vision springs from her critique of the healthcare industry's emphasis on profitability over comprehensive care—a stance that motivated her to establish a practice where the focus is unequivocally on the patient. At GentlePsych, longer appointment times and a reduced patient load per day mean that each individual receives the full extent of Lauren's attention and expertise.

Lauren's authenticity as a provider sets her apart. Her own mental health journey has taught her the power of authenticity and vulnerability, leading her to eschew the cold, clinical demeanor often associated with psychiatry. Instead, she opts to be herself—silly, funny, warm-hearted, and bright—acting as a healer, confidant, and advocate for her patients.

Outside the office, Lauren is just as committed to balancing her professional achievements with personal happiness. As a mom to 9-year-old twins, a bonus mom to two teenagers, and a doggie mom to her Golden Retriever, Boston Brown, she knows the importance of prioritizing mental health not just for her patients, but for herself and her family. Lauren has designed GentlePsych to allow for this balance, ensuring she can provide the best care possible while also enjoying life's simpler pleasures with her family. Whether it's playing board games, crafting, traveling, or simply playing with her family, Lauren embodies the principle that life should be enjoyed, and she encourages her patients to do the same.

Lauren's story is a powerful reminder of what's possible when care, compassion, and creativity come together. Under her leadership, GentlePsych is not just a psychiatric practice; it's a movement towards a more humane, connected, and authentic approach to mental health care.