Lauren LaPenna

LCPC
SHE/HER/HERS
LAUREN@TOWSONMENTALHEALTH.COM

Lauren LaPenna is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Autism Specialist who works with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She is passionate about helping clients navigate anxiety, trauma, emotional challenges, life transitions, and neurodivergent experiences while building confidence, resilience, and meaningful connections with others.

Lauren has experience providing therapy across a variety of settings, including school-based mental health, college counseling, and community mental health. These experiences have given her a broad understanding of the unique challenges individuals face throughout different stages of development and allow her to tailor treatment to each client's specific needs and goals.

As a Certified Autism Specialist, Lauren has specialized training and experience supporting autistic children, teens, and young adults. She works collaboratively with clients and families to build self-understanding, strengthen communication and social-emotional skills, navigate school and relationship challenges, and foster greater confidence and independence. Lauren embraces a strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming approach, recognizing and celebrating the unique qualities and perspectives each individual brings.

In addition to her work with neurodivergent individuals, Lauren has extensive experience helping clients manage anxiety, process trauma, improve emotional regulation, strengthen self-esteem, and navigate major life transitions. She understands that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming and strives to create a safe, welcoming environment where clients feel understood, respected, and empowered to grow.

Lauren's therapeutic style is warm, genuine, and deeply client-centered. She utilizes evidence-based approaches while maintaining flexibility to meet each client's individual needs. Her goal is to help clients build insight, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful change while feeling supported throughout the process.

Education

Master of Science (M.S.), Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Johns Hopkins University

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Clemson University

Certifications

Certified Autism Specialist (CAS)

Areas of Special Interest
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy
Anxiety Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Emotional Regulation
Self-Esteem and Confidence Building
Social and Relationship Challenges
School-Related Concerns
Young Adult Mental Health
Life Transitions
Parent Collaboration and Family Support