Heal from the past. Learn in the present.

Build your

bravest future

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Lauren Wiklund Clinical Psychologist with brown skin and brown hair smiling to camera
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Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren, licensed clinical psychologist.

I help queer folks of color with complex trauma build healthier and more pleasurable relationships.

I provide individual and couples* therapy that celebrates your identities, culture, and unique values to develop the skills you need to break intergenerational cycles.

Therapeutic approach

Clients describe me as warm, curious, collaborative, and nonjudgmental.

My approach to therapy is integrative and relational.

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Relational

I pay attention to the therapeutic relationship itself as a mechanism for change and opportunity to learn about how you relate to others in your life. The therapeutic relationship presents a unique opportunity to co-create a safe space for honest discussion of interpersonal patterns as they emerge in our work together.

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Integrative

I have deep knowledge in the theoretical foundations of human behavior, trauma, and evidence-based psychological interventions. I utilize both contemporary psychodynamic interventions (how early childhood experiences and significant life events shape present behavior and emotional responses) and cognitive and behavioral strategies (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy). This approach allows us to uncover the root of the problem, develop new skills and strategies, and create sustainable change.

Affirming, validating, and holistic trauma treatment to create lasting change - and a more fulfilling and joyful life.

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Specialties

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Sexual & Reproductive Health

  • Queer family building

  • Trying to conceive

  • Pregnancy loss, miscarriage

  • Pregnancy after past loss

  • Medical racism

  • Birth trauma

  • Infertility (medical or social)

  • Postpartum depression, anxiety, and adjustment

  • Single parenting by choice

  • Sexual trauma

  • Improving sexual satisfaction

  • Exploring changes in sexuality

  • Sex after major life events (e.g., gender affirming surgery, birth, trauma, change in relationship status or structure)

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Trauma & Anxiety

  • Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • Family of origin stress

  • Nightmares & flashbacks

  • Early childhood traumatic experiences

  • Sexual trauma & IPV

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

  • Panic disorder

  • Nervous system fatigue

  • Chronic stress

  • Overwhelming emotions

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*Couples(+) Therapy

  • Sexual desire discrepancy

  • Sexual functioning (e.g, pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction)

  • Rebuilding physical and emotional intimacy

  • Betrayal trauma

  • Improving communication

  • Interracial/cultural relationships

  • Neurodivergence

  • Exploring kink and BDSM

  • Consensual non monogamy, open, and poly relationships

  • Discernment counseling

  • Navigating life transitions (e.g., marriage, trying to conceive, deciding to have/or not have kids, career changes, caregiving for elders)

*I use the term Couples(+) to include all relationship structures.

About Me

I believe most humans are doing the best they can with what they have. It is not your fault if the tools you were given are no longer working, but it is your responsibility to develop new tools if you want to have a different experience now. It is hard to find a therapist and even harder to be vulnerable and open up about the most painful and sensitive areas of our lives. You deserve a safe, respectful, and gentle space to share your experiences at your own pace. I love sharing information from the scientific literature to help you learn about your body, make sense of your symptoms, depathologize, and normalize your experiences. I aim to destigmatize and reduce shame around our bodies, sex, and mental health. I am honored to help people find the joy, connection, and worthiness they deserve.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy baking for friends and family, walking as much as possible, trying new restaurants, combating decades of perfectionism with novel hobbies (ever tried handbuilding pottery!?), and yoga.

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Credentials & Training

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Illinois

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Reproductive Health Psychology and Sexual Trauma, Rush University Medical Center

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Michigan State University

Dissertation Project: Sexual Well-Being Among Queer Women of Color

Clinical Internship, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Michigan State University

Masters Thesis: Amplifying Strengths within Multiply Marginalized Communities

Professional Associations

AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists)

KPACT (Kink and Poly Aware Chicago Therapists)

 FAQs

Reach out for a free 30-minute consultation.