Registered Psychological Associate #94029205

Meet Lauren Ziyaaein, a therapist-in-training and a doctoral student pursuing her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School. Lauren works under the direct supervision of seasoned professionals, Azeen Nafisi, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist #PSY34508 and Neda Safvati, Psy.D. #PSY25346.

Lauren began her clinical journey in an Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization Program (IOP/PHP) for adolescents, where she supported teens ages 12–18 and their families through both in-person and Telehealth sessions. She has experience working with clients from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and gender-identity backgrounds on challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, neurodivergence, and major life transitions. In addition to individual therapy, she has facilitated group therapy sessions designed to build coping skills and strengthen peer connection.

Drawing from a multidisciplinary approach, Lauren integrates evidence-based strategies within a collaborative, person-centered framework. She strives to create a safe, affirming environment where clients can explore their identities, cultivate resilience, and develop effective coping tools. She often incorporates mindfulness and body-based practices to support regulation of the nervous system and reduce distress.

As a second-generation Persian Moroccan American, Lauren is deeply committed to reducing stigma around mental health and increasing access to care in diverse communities. She is especially passionate about empowering clients to embrace their identities, achieve personal goals, and enhance their overall quality of life. Alongside her clinical training, Lauren is developing her doctoral dissertation exploring the intersections of Jewish identity, gender identity, and birth order—and their influence on individual identity and life satisfaction.

Registered Psychological Associate #94029205 Meet Lauren Ziyaaein, a therapist-in-training and a... Read More

Licensed Clinical Psychologist PSY34878

Dr. Sara Muñoz is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychological assessments and therapy for children, adolescents, individuals, and families. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and completed her master’s and doctoral degrees in Clinical Forensic Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

With experience in both community mental health and private practice, Dr. Muñoz provides comprehensive psychological testing and individualized, evidence-based therapy. She emphasizes a compassionate, collaborative approach, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel understood and empowered. Her work addresses concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment-related challenges, communication difficulties, and relationship skill-building.

Dr. Muñoz integrates a flexible therapeutic framework, drawing from cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions. She is committed to supporting personal growth, emotional well-being, and the development of healthy, meaningful relationships.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist PSY34878 Dr. Sara Muñoz is a licensed clinical psychologist speci... Read More