Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lauren Manning. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lauren, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you get your first job in the field that you practice in today?
My first job in the field of social work presented itself during my internship during graduate school. I was fortunate to be connected with The Methodist Home for Children in Macon, GA and placed under the clinical guidance of Cameron Bishop, LCSW. During my time there, I became a Human Services Professional and was responsible for the caseload of adolescent girls. It was during my time at The Methodist Home that I came to know and love of working with at-risk youth. I found my “clinical calling” in trauma and have not waivered since. The clinical foundation provided to me during my time there opened the door to become a Special Education Social Worker in the school system as well as open my own private therapy practice. I am forever grateful to “The Home” for fostering my development.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I began my career working with “high needs” adolescents in foster care, and now work as a School Social Worker and private practice therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified School Social Worker in the state of Georgia. My specialties include: trauma, anxiety and mood disorders of which I now have a decade of experience. I utilize evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical behavior therapy. However, there are often times where I just, listen, and validate. What I often hear from clients that “sets me apart” is my ability to connect and remain curious about their joys and hurts. A therapist can have all of the education in the world, but true change comes from authentic human connection. My end goal is to work myself out of a job and equip each client with the tools they need to live their fullest life.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
I love this question! My mantra is, “Every therapist needs a therapist”, and I live by that. Placing yourself on the couch and feeing those growing pains yourself is important. Ethically, therapists have to constantly be aware of their own triggers and know how to navigate those during sessions. I am constantly in a state of learning so that I can best serve my clients. When I am a client, I remember how much feeling heard and validated means. I also remember how difficult growth can be at times!
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
I’ve been entirely virtual (in my private practice) since the pandemic, and have had no shortage of clients! Many clients report that the convenience of online therapy actually allows them to be more accountable. Atlanta traffic and work hours aren’t great excuses for missing a session when you can have therapy from your phone or laptop. Virtual therapy is also great for my clientele suffering from PTSD and/or depression. Consistency equals results in therapy, as it does in anything, and this has been a game changer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/lauren-manning-atlanta-ga/898449
- Instagram: lmanninglcsw