Lauren Gula
MCP, RCC (they/she)
*accepting new clients
Lauren is a Registered Clinical Counsellor. As a neurodivergent, queer and fat bodied human, they approach their work with a foundation rooted in intersectionality, anti-oppressive values, and a decolonized framework. They believe every person is deserving and worthy of self-compassion, acceptance and healing and they are dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore the wonderments and complexities of the human experience. Lauren specializes in working with neurodiversity, gender expression, queer identity, non-normative relationship structures, artistic expression, fat liberation and body acceptance.
I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD in my early 30’s, and with these diagnoses came immense sadness for a younger version of myself who felt isolated and alone growing up. Along with feelings of grief and empathy for the small human that struggled to understand why they were the way they were, these diagnoses brought me great relief, and I was finally beginning to accept that I was capable and loveable. The journey of exploring my identity as a neurodivergent person parallels the one of discovering and exploring my identity as a queer person. Where I once felt shame and fear around my queerness, my healing has made space for a more accepting, fluid and bold version of myself. This capacity to hold many truths at the same time is reflected in my work as a counsellor.
As a dance instructor who works in styles considered to be sensual and sexual in nature, I teach from an empowerment centered and trauma informed lens. I am humbled by the vulnerability and courage my students share with me. My work as a teacher informs how I build relationships with clients. I foster curiosity around acceptance of self, finding authenticity in self expression and appreciation of what our bodies can do and say.
My therapeutic approach integrates the theory of attachment and how it impacts significant relationships, parts work allowing you to explore the different aspects of who you are, somatic connection and awareness, and the systemic impacts of society upon your mental health. As a white person, it is important to me to continually address the privilege that I hold in society, seek out further education in systemic injustice, and to approach my work with humility. These deeply held values allow me to create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, where healing and personal growth can thrive. My goal is always to provide holistic, client-centered care that supports long-term well-being and empowerment.
When I’m not working, you can find me dancing in my high heels, creating weird art, tending to the enormous number of plants I collected during the pandemic and living whimsically to please my inner child.
Individual Counselling: $150/session
Relationship Counselling: $160/session