Meet Lauren Anastasi

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

ASSOCIATE THERAPIST (she/her)

 

Lauren Anastasi is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Associate Therapist who provides in-person and online counselling at Cherry Tree. Lauren works with individuals looking for support with anxiety, depression, stress, life skills, self-care, coping skills, and perinatal and maternal mental health.

I have genuine empathy for the challenges you face and am committed to walking alongside you. Together, we will navigate whatever life brings.

 

Lauren is currently accepting new clients with no wait times for online or in-person (Dundas/Hamilton) and has daytime and some evening availability on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don't need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.”

- THICH NHAT HANH

 

Life's journey is often filled with unexpected detours. As a therapist with a deep empathy for the human experience, I'm here to walk beside you through life's twists and turns. I'm Lauren, and I believe that mental health is a continuum—a path we all navigate, sometimes stumbling, sometimes striding forward, and sometimes needing support coping when feeling overwhelmed or unsteady.

Imagine a space where you can be entirely yourself, free from judgment and full of possibility. That's what I strive to create in our sessions. With nearly two decades of experience in yoga and meditation, I've learned that our emotions aren't just in our minds—they live in our bodies too. This holistic understanding informs every aspect of my practice.

My journey to becoming a therapist wasn't just professional—it was deeply personal. As a mother who has faced fertility struggles and postpartum challenges, I bring not just expertise, but genuine empathy to our sessions. I understand the unique pressures of motherhood, the silent battles we often face, and the strength it takes to seek support.

My approach is rooted in Existential Humanistic therapy, which means we'll dive deep into life's big questions together. What gives your life meaning? How do you face life's inevitable challenges? These are the conversations we'll have as we work towards your wellness.

While I work with adults of all ages, I've found a special connection with middle-aged women and seniors. There's something powerful about navigating life's later chapters together, rediscovering purpose and joy.

But my work isn't confined to individual sessions. I'm passionate about building community, whether it's through the online group meditations I co-facilitate or my role as the Supervisor of Community Development & Relations at Distress Centre Halton. I believe in the power of connection to heal and transform.

Embarking on therapy is an act of courage and hope. It's about saying yes to yourself, yes to growth, and yes to the possibility of change. If you're ready to take this step, I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Lauren is currently accepting new clients with no wait times for online or in-person (Dundas/Hamilton) and has daytime and some evening availability on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

 

Presenting Concerns and Needs

Anxiety
Depression
Emotional Regulation Strategies
Family Relationship Support
Stress Management and Coping Skills
Sleep Hygiene and Lifestyle Coaching
Parent Coaching and Support
Self-Esteem
Climate Anxiety and Eco-grief
Grief and Loss

  • Existential Humanistic
    Mindfulness-based
    Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    Adlerian
    Attachment-based Therapy
    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
    Compassion Focused
    Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
    Person-Centered
    Walk & Talk Ecotherapy

  • EDUCATION / ACCOMPLISHMENTS / AWARDS

    Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Honours), York University, 2000

    Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University, 2024

    Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)


Interested in working with Lauren?