Welcome! I’m Lauren Kohler, founder of Columbia Pines Counseling, a devoted wife and mother of nine, building a family through both adoption and childbirth. My love for the great outdoors, particularly hiking to mountain tops, fills me with joy and a deep connection to nature and spirituality.

Over the past 20 years, I have gained invaluable experiences in my personal, professional, and spiritual life that have shaped who I am today. I have served in the capacities of foster parent, court-appointed special advocate for foster children, and youth group leader. Youth possess such an inspiring capacity for courage and resilience; I feel privileged to walk alongside them as they navigate challenges unique to them. I have also served as a Victim’s Advocate in the U.S. Army and in domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy roles; I’m passionate about supporting individuals navigating adversity with compassion and determination. As a veteran, I have a personal understanding of the emotional scars of military deployments and the profound impact of trauma.  These collective experiences ignited within me a fervent desire to support others in overcoming their own struggles and finding hope amidst despair.

Working with women and teens, I offer empathy and authenticity, guiding clients toward resilience and emotional well-being. Through a client-centered, strengths-based approach, I create a safe, supportive space for clients to explore challenges, cultivate self-awareness, and develop healthy coping strategies, fostering growth and healing together.

Specializing in trauma-informed therapy, depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, my approach integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to tailor treatment plans that meet your unique needs and goals.