Michelle Paris, LCSW, PEL

Owner & Psychotherapist

Michelle specializes in working with anyone who thinks or has felt “outside the box.” She believes that where we stand from the center affects how we see the world and our place in it. Michelle helps clients to recognize how their unique perspective is both the root of their strengths and what they can learn to channel when it holds them back. 

Michelle has been in practice for over 20 years. She has worked as a psychotherapist and developed programs in several mental health agencies before becoming a Clinical Program Director. She has provided a wide range of trainings and workshops to both professionals and community members including “The Language of Dress: The Art & Language of Style”, “Play Therapy with Adults”, “Self-Care for Teachers”, and “Under Pressure: Academic Pressures & Expectations”. 

Michelle has been called a “thrift store archeologist”, as one of her favorite things to do is search for anything unique or vintage and give it a new life. Michelle also loves trying any art form that sparks her interest, reading a little of everything, and spending time with her (supercool) family.

Michelle’s work focuses on creatives, parents, caregiving professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and neurodiverse individuals and their families.

Todd Lazar, LCSW

Therapy can be scary and uncomfortable and with the added stress of global events, Todd offers compassion and patience with a calm, nurturing demeanor. He aims to make his clients feel comfortable—even if they are feeling shame or distress about where they are in life. Todd follows the lead of his clients to form safe connections and carefully helps them build their spirit and self-worth as they navigate life’s transitions.

Todd has over twelve years of psychotherapy experience and works with adults of all ages. Todd tailors his therapy methods to meet each client’s unique needs. He incorporates techniques from multiple evidence-based therapies such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, and insight-oriented therapy. He also uses humor to help ease the pain and discomfort that can arise in therapy. Most importantly, he is curious about his clients and their experiences.

Todd’s experience as an improvisational musician influences his style in therapy by sensing the present emotions and allowing them to breathe and change freely and holistically. Having grown up in Chicago, he has forged relationships with people from diverse backgrounds and appreciates the common humanity we all share. 

Todd is passionate about his work with individuals who struggle with feelings of low self-esteem, guilt, and shame. He specializes in clients who are navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, loss, and chronic illness.

Lauren Schmidt, LCSW, PEL 

Lauren believes that we all have the capacity to grow, learn, and make positive changes no matter what life throws our way. Sometimes we need an objective and empathetic ear to guide us through life’s challenges and this is the role Lauren plays for her clients. She creates a safe, collaborative, and affirming space centered around each client’s needs. Lauren integrates structured interventions with open exploration and utilizes client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to create a unique therapy experience for her clients.

Lauren has been in practice for over eight years working with children, adolescents, and adults. She has specialized training in how our mental health and overall well-being are impacted by the larger systems that surround us. Lauren has led presentations and trainings for professionals, students, and family members on dealing with anxiety and depression, managing stress, The Zones of Regulation, and Social Thinking.

Lauren finds balance in her life through traveling, reading, hiking, yoga, and spending time with her family. 

Lauren works with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, isolation, loss, change, family, and relationships. She also works with clients on the autism spectrum.