Lauren Carlson is an outpatient counselor at Rimrock Trails, specializing in trauma-informed, relationship-based therapy. She believes that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of healing, offering clients the space and support to explore their stories without judgment. Her approach is holistic, experiential, and deeply individualized to support each client’s unique needs and goals. Lauren is passionate about helping her clients cultivate a deeper relationship with themselves, fostering internal safety and comfort so they can authentically engage in their lives.

With over four years of experience in wilderness and adventure therapy, Lauren integrates nature-based approaches into her practice to help clients reconnect with their bodies and the natural world. To complement her adventure therapy passion, Lauren incorporates modalities such as somatic experiencing, dialectical behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy which she has employed as a group therapy clinician in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs over the last three years.

Lauren holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology, Biology, and Neuroscience from St. Olaf College, and a dual master’s degree in Social Work and Outdoor Education from the University of New Hampshire. This unique combination allows her to draw from diverse fields to tailor her approach to each client’s needs. She is deeply attuned to the cultural and personal aspects of each individual and works to integrate these into her therapeutic practice with sensitivity and compassion. Lauren believes healing must be a collaborative, client-driven process, where every individual’s autonomy is respected and their experiences are met with empathy and understanding.

Outside of her professional work, Lauren can be found skiing, mountain biking, trail running, and whitewater rafting. She enjoys spending time outdoors with friends (and their dogs), reading, making art, and relaxing by the fire with a cup of tea.