Lauren Aikin Smith, PhD, LCSW, MPH, MEd, MSW, CHES

Dr. Lauren Aikin-Smith is a licensed clinical social worker and sex and mental health therapist at Elements Counseling & Wellness Spa in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over thirteen years of experience, she specializes in integrating mental health, sexual health, and holistic wellness into a cohesive and accessible model of care. In 2024, she co-founded an integrated medical practice with Autumn Walsh, LCSW, combining traditional psychotherapy with wellness services such as yoga, massage therapy, contrast therapy, halotherapy, and spiritual practices. This innovative approach creates an inclusive environment where emotional, physical, and relational health are addressed together.

Dr. Aikin-Smith holds an interdisciplinary academic background, including a PhD in Human Sexuality Studies and a Master of Education in Sex Education from Widener University, as well as dual master’s degrees in Public Health and Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. Her clinical work draws on evidence-based and body-aware modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, internal family systems, somatic therapy, and mindfulness practices. She is particularly committed to serving diverse and historically underserved communities, focusing on sexuality, relationships, and holistic well-being.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Aikin-Smith is a dedicated educator, public speaker, and community advocate. She has lectured at universities, national conferences, and international venues on topics ranging from sexual health education to healthy relationships and queer family dynamics. Her work emphasizes the importance of accessibility, inclusivity, and the integration of research and practice to support both individual and community well-being.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Aikin-Smith and her spouse have fostered children for over a decade, reflecting her deep commitment to connection, healing, and stability. Her holistic, inclusive approach to health combines clinical expertise, education, and advocacy, empowering individuals and communities to thrive across emotional, physical, and relational domains.

• Widener University - Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Human Sexuality Studies
• Widener University - Master of Education - MEd, Human Sexuality Studies
• University of Pittsburgh - Master of Public Health - MPH, Behavioral & Community Health
• University of Pittsburgh - Master of Social Work - MSW, Direct Practice
• University of Pittsburgh - Bachelor of Science (BS), Applied Developmental Psychology

• American Public Health Association
• National Association of Social Workers

Dissertation

• “An Application of the Theory of Resilience & Relational Load: Relationship Maintenance Strategies, Step-parent Role, Relationship Satisfaction, and Resilience in LGBTQ+ Step Families” – ProQuest Dissertation

Conference Presentations

• “Social Worker Burnout: Moving Beyond a Micro Perspective” – NASW-PA Annual Conference, Poconos, PA
• “Healthy Sexuality as Primary Prevention” – ACHA Annual Conference, San Francisco, CA
• “Carnegie Mellon University Collegiate Recovery Community” – ACHA Annual Conference, San Francisco, CA
• “Analysis of LGBTQ-Identified US Veteran Health Care” – APHA Annual Conference, San Francisco, CA
• “CMU Collegiate Recovery Community: Reducing Dangerous and Underage Drinking” – PCHE, Pittsburgh, PA

University/Student-Focused Presentations (Carnegie Mellon University)

• “Sex & Substance Use” – TIX Series, Pittsburgh, PA
• “Consent and Sexual Health” – TIX Series, Pittsburgh, PA
• “Consent, Sexuality, & Substance Use” – TIX Series, Pittsburgh, PA
• “The Illusion of Perfection” – Carnegie Mellon University Leaders Association, Pittsburgh, PA
• “Healthy Communities” – New Student Orientation, Annual In-Person and Virtual, Pittsburgh, PA
• “Sex, Texts, & All the Rest” – New Student Orientation, Pittsburgh, PA
• “Healthy U: Student Wellness Project” – Carnegie Mellon Partners, Pittsburgh, PA
• “Decisions That Matter” – New Student Orientation, Pittsburgh, PA