Lauren Brands, LAC

Mental Health Counseling located in Gilbert, AZ

AZ License: LAC-23661

First Responder & Military Trauma

PTSD & Trauma Recovery

EMDR for Trauma

Bio

As the spouse of a first responder and an Army combat medic veteran, Lauren understands the unique demands and sacrifices that come with a life of service. These lived experiences inspired her to specialize in supporting first responders, military service members, veterans, ER and healthcare professionals, their families, and individuals impacted by trauma.

Lauren strives to create a space where clients can show up exactly as they are—without judgment and without having to explain the culture or the weight they carry. Sessions are authentic, grounded, and human. There is room for laughter, emotion, direct language, and real conversation, because healing is not about perfection—it is about being seen, heard, and supported.

Beyond her work with first responders and military personnel, Lauren supports clients in building resilience, developing effective coping tools, and creating boundaries that promote healing and sustainable growth. She is especially passionate about EMDR therapy and integrates it with a variety of trauma-informed and attachment-focused approaches to meet each client’s individual needs.

Lauren is a Military Star Behavioral Health Provider and is currently completing her Certified First Responder certification. She has specialty training in trauma, abuse, and deprivation, and works from an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach to support healing, resilience, and long-term recovery.

Lauren is committed to fostering a warm, safe, and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel truly understood. Whether navigating trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, or feeling stuck, she partners with clients to honor their strengths, address challenges with care, and move toward meaningful change. She is honored to walk alongside clients on their path toward healing and resilience.

Lauren Brands - Trained Provider Military-Focused Care STAR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROVIDER
Lauren Brands, Certified Grief Informed Professional Therapist at Thrive Counseling

Other Team Members

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Couples Counseling
Perinatal & Postpartum Anxiety and Depression

Expressive Art Modalities
EMDR Certified Trauma Treatment
ADHD & Neurodiverence

Couples Counseling
Boundary Setting & People-Pleasing
Emotional Regulation

EMDR for Trauma
Couples & Family Conflict
ADHD & Neurodivergence

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Perinatal & Postpartum Mental Health
Grief & Chronic Illness

Over-Functioning and Burnout

Addiction & Substance Use Recovery

Trauma & PTSD

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