Lauren grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and now calls New York City home. She attended The University of Southern California for her degree in Communication and Cinematic Arts and earned her Master of Social Work degree at New York University.

Before joining the Refresh team Lauren worked at a family shelter in the Bronx. While there she provided individual therapy to clients experiencing the impact of issues related to grief, trauma, family challenges, and the navigation of multiple cultures. Lauren has also worked with clients navigating challenges in relationships, family structures, culture integration, childhood trauma, grief, anxiety and depression, among others.

Lauren’s background connects her to a strong appreciation of culture and the ways that it incorporates into our lives, especially through values, food, and language. Lauren loves to read, run, cook, and travel. She talks to loved ones for self-care. Lauren loves trying all the food that NYC has to offer and exploring the unique diversity of experiences the city offers!

Lauren’s motivation for her work comes from a desire to give back to the community she lives in; she incorporates this in the way she votes, protests, and works.