Lived Experience Mental Health Advocate:

Exploring Metabolic Therapies for Recovery

Currently available for speaking engagements and consulting

About Lauren

Lauren (she/they) lives with a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, and brings a unique perspective to mental health advocacy. With experience both as a social worker within the mental health care system and as a patient navigating its challenges, Lauren offers rare and valuable insights.

In late 2023, Lauren began using metabolic therapies, specifically the medical ketogenic diet, to manage her condition. This treatment has completely eliminated her symptoms, allowing her to live medication-free while thriving in recovery.

As a passionate speaker, Lauren shares her story and expertise with diverse audiences, reaching millions through her YouTube channel, Living Well After Schizophrenia, which has garnered over 40 million views.

Lauren’s work is grounded in vulnerability and authenticity, as she openly discusses her struggles and triumphs in recovery, living well with a chronic mental illness, and embracing metabolic therapies as a treatment. Through her advocacy, Lauren aims to provide support to those on their own mental health journeys while championing the need for improved mental health care systems and resources.

EDUCATION

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Social Development Studies

  • Honours Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.)

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

  • Mental Health Educator

  • Social Worker

  • Researcher

  • Mental Health Navigator

  • Host and Producer

YouTube Channel Creator and Host

  • 40+ million views

  • 311,000+ subscribers

  • 400+ educational and
    lived experience videos

  • Peer support community

Lauren harnesses the power of social media to share her personal journey and raise global awareness about mental health. Through her YouTube channel, she normalizes conversations about mental illness, helping to dismantle the stigma surrounding schizophrenia.

In 2024, Lauren shifted her channel’s focus to highlight the transformative potential of metabolic therapies in treating mental disorders.

Lauren also leads two vibrant peer support communities: one dedicated to individuals living with schizophrenia, and another for those exploring metabolic therapies as part of their mental health journey.

Bridging Lived Experience and Professional Insight in Mental Health Advocacy

Speaking Topics

Lauren delivers powerful talks on a variety of topics, including:

  • Mental Health Advocacy – Inspiring change through personal and professional insight.

  • Living with Schizophrenia – Sharing her journey to normalize conversations and reduce stigma.

  • Metabolic Therapies for Mental Health – Exploring their potential in treating schizophrenia.

  • Deprescribing from Psychiatric Medication - Safely tapering, and dealing with withdrawal.

  • Navigating the Mental Health Care System – Highlighting challenges and advocating for reform.

  • Mental Health Policy and Social Determinants of Health – Addressing systemic factors impacting mental wellness.

  • Using Social Media for Advocacy – Leveraging online platforms to raise awareness and foster community.

Lauren is also able to tailor her talks to a wide range of additional topics. Discover how she can provide impactful insights to meet the needs of your audience.

Delivering Powerful Messages That Resonate

Based in Edmonton, Canada, Lauren is available for in-person speaking engagements worldwide and can also deliver impactful presentations virtually. She has experience delivering keynote addresses, participating in panel discussions, and facilitating interactive workshops.

In addition, our team has the expertise and production capabilities to create high-quality, customized video content tailored to your event's needs.

Consulting

Lauren can bring her lived experience, educational background and professional expertise to your project or organization.

  • Manuscript review

  • Project advisement

  • Research advisement

  • Policy review

  • Organizational culture

I’m 33 years old, and a mother to three beautiful children. They keep me very busy, but when I’m not chasing after one (or all!) of them, I love to read (classic literature is my favourite), explore the outdoors, and particularly run. I love road running and trail running and have completed several ultramarathons. I find that physical activity and connecting with nature really help me to stay grounded and look after both my physical and mental health. Doctor Who is my favourite show because it combines a love for science and space, with an optimistic take on the human condition. I’m passionate about health policy, health equity, and social justice, and have leaned heavily into these with my professional and volunteer experience.

Thank you for considering me for your event or project. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you!