Hi!
I’m thrilled you’re here.
Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy
I offer relationship-focused psychotherapy addressing family well-being, parental mental health, and the perinatal period.
Health & Well-Being Coaching
As a Diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, I bring a whole person approach to improving well-being.
Prevention & Translation Science
With a decade of experience creating evidence-based health education, I contribute to initatives that elevate team performance and enhance individual wellness.
Maternal & Family Policy Advocate
I am a fierce advocate for local, state, and federal policies that truly support families and uplift maternal health.
My Story
We all have a story. Perhaps mine resonates with you.
When I got to the point of having everything I’d worked so hard for – career success, baby, house, marriage, and a dog too – I stopped to think:
“Ok, this is supposed to be the good life – but something doesn’t feel right.”
Monday morning 8am I felt “on”, running around like crazy to get it all done until Friday at 5:30pm day care pick up. Then, finally, time to breathe. But the weekends quickly filled with errands and to do lists and prepping for another marathon week ahead.
If this wasn’t the “good life” what was I doing wrong? Where did I misstep? Surely there was a tweak, a hack, a change that would make the marathon less exhausting and overwhelming.
In my pursuit of “optimizing” my own life I reflected on what was within my control and what is beyond it – that the way our society is currently structured lacks support for moms and families.
It’s not just me – there’s bigger changes that need to happen.
So, here I am! Making change on multiple levels.
I bring my expertise in relationship health, whole person mental wellness, and lifestyle medicine, to you through psychotherapy and health coaching services.
I leverage my experiences in translational and prevention science to teach, deliver presentations and seminars, and share my boutique parenting resources.
And, I advocate for change to influence policies that better support maternal health and family well-being.
How can we work together to make change happen for you?
Some of my Testimonials
Why work with
Dr. Lauren Messina?
From Couples
“Lauren was very knowledgeable. She made some profound observations about our relationship and provided much-needed tools to build a healthy relationship.”
From Families
“Lauren is an amazing therapist! She has played an essential role in helping my 8 year old daughter and I develop techniques in coping with anxiety. I would highly recommend her for anyone looking for a family therapist.”
From Individuals
“Lauren was really good, it was very easy to talk to her and she was very understanding and nonjudgmental. She did a good job talking me through my own process.”
My commitment to diversity and equity
I welcome all people to my practice including families and individuals of all abilities, faiths, national origin, race, gender, gender identity and family composition.
I believe that Black Lives Matter and I strive to be a vocal supporter of the rights of those who are underrepresented.
Let’s Connect
Address
I see psychotherapy clients in-person on Wednesdays at 804 Pershing Dr #4, Silver Spring, MD 20910. I primarily serve Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, and the surrounding areas and practice at Evergreen Child & Family Therapy. I am licensed in Maryland and Virginia.
I offer Health and Well-being Coaching to anyone in the U.S.
My translation science educational work is available in person in the DMV area and virtually to other locations.
As an advocate, my focus is on both the needs of Maryland parents and change at the federal policy level.
Contact
Hours
I am currently accepting clients for daytime, weekday appointments. I have availability Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am-3pm and Tuesday/Thursday from 10am-5pm.
Or just drop me a line
I offer a free 15-minute consultation and look forward to hearing from you!