Lauren Whiteside, MA, MSW, LSW | Therapist (Lakewood & Denver, CO)

Lauren is a Denver-based therapist who works with children, teens, and parents. She brings warmth, curiosity, and a deep belief in the power of connection to every session. Lauren creates a safe, collaborative space where kids can explore, express themselves, and make sense of an ever-changing world.

Her work is grounded in a relational, person-centered approach and informed by trauma-informed and strengths-based practices. She incorporates open-ended play, art, mindfulness, and moments of reflection, helping children and families build meaningful skills that support emotional growth, regulation, and resilience. Lauren believes healing and growth happen when we feel deeply seen and understood. Her approach is holistic and developmentally informed, honoring the connection between emotions, the body, relationships, and the environments we move through every day.

Lauren’s path into therapy was shaped by years of hands-on work with children and families. She holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Denver and a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from CU Denver. Before becoming a therapist, she spent five years teaching neurodiverse and gifted children through the Reggio Emilia approach, which views children as inherently capable, curious, and competent. That perspective continues to shape how she works today. Lauren follows each child’s lead, honors their individuality, and trusts that they already hold the seeds of their own growth. Her experience at Denver Human Services in Child Welfare supporting children and families through some of life’s most difficult moments, deepened her commitment to showing up with compassion, presence, and care. It also strengthened her belief that children thrive when the adults who love them are supported too.