Anchor & Soar, LLC

08/07/2025

Yay!!! So excited about my collaboration with Riverside Family Music and other local businesses providing infant family connection.

If you or someone you know has a baby (preferably non-crawlers for this event) please register!!! We are offering fun goodies and amazing resources.

Are you getting excited for our Baby Brunch Bunch this September! 🎉

We can't wait to share all the fun, knowledge and community with new moms across Sedgwick County. Week three features a special segment with Lauren Collins of Anchor & Soar, LLC!

Lauren is a private practice therapist specializing in maternal mental health and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). With over 20 years in social work, she's passionate about empowering families through connection. Lauren will be sharing tips, techniques and insights on the benefits of infant massage for your little one!

Don't forget to register today at https://www.riversidefamilymusic.com/class.aspx?cls=1005624

07/30/2025

You might not be able to tell from my page (it's been pretty quiet)—or maybe that is a good indication...

…I’ve been busy doing some powerful, meaningful work this summer.

Here’s a quick update on what I’ve been up to:

>>>Attended the Infant Massage USA Annual Conference
I had the privilege of learning from leading neuroscientists about infant brain development (ages 0–3). The focus was on the critical role of nurturing communication—like infant massage—in supporting healthy development. It’s an honor to teach this powerful tool to families.
Learn more: Infant Massage Benefits https://www.infantmassageusa.org/parents-caregivers-benefits

>>>Participating in the Money Skills for Therapists Financial Program
Because sustainable practice requires solid financial health.
More info: Check out the Podcasts https://moneynutsandbolts.com/podcast/

>>>Participated in the BIP (Batterers Intervention Program) Summit
Hosted by MHA South Central Kansas, this summit deepened my understanding of effective programming and increased my compassion for those navigating cycles of harm. Dana VanWinkle (A Clear Direction) is doing transformative work right here in Wichita.
More info: Hidden Harm Event https://mhasck.org/event/hidden-harm-the-conversations-about-violence-we-cant-ignore/

>>>>Joined the Sedgwick County Fatherhood Summit
This event was a call to action: let’s bridge the gap for under-resourced fathers. More to come this fall.
Details: Fatherhood Summit https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/health/healthy-babies/fatherhood-program/fatherhood-summit/

>>>>Attended the book signing for Cradled in Hope by Ashley Opliger
Hosted by Bridget’s Cradles, this event offered compassionate support and resources for families grieving the loss of a child.
Explore their offerings: Bridget's Cradles https://bridgetscradles.com/

>>>>Relocated the Moms' Peer Support Group
Our group now meets at Forage for Your Wellbeing. Stay tuned for a dedicated post with all the details!
Location info: Forage for Your Wellbeing https://www.forageforyourwellbeing.com/

>>>>Collaborating with Riverside Music Together + Local Infant Providers
I have the opportunity to network with Music Together and join forces with other infant-focused providers in the Wichita area. Together, we are offering sneak peek classes to 12 families—helping them get more connected to the rich, local resources available for families with babies. Stay tuned for another dedicated post with all the details!

✨ Mark your calendars for next year’s conferences and summits—these events were inspirational and full of valuable connections and resources. I’d love for you to join me.

Forage for Your Wellbeing is a cocoon collective of practitioners that believe wellness and inner healing comes from a whole-body approach. Located in Wichita, Kansas, services are offered for individuals, couples, families and groups encouraging a larger supportive community connection. You are inv...

06/04/2025

Looking forward to Infant Massage USA 2025 conference beginning tomorrow!!!! Learn more about brain development from neuroscientist is incredibly encouraging!!! Each year I’m reminded that nurturing communication through touch is vital!!!!

✨ Massage and the Nervous System Infant massage is an experience that goes beyond simple touch. It represents an important support for the child’s neurological development, contributing to relaxation and emotional regulation. Mindful and respectful touch, combined with the attentive presence of ...

05/17/2025

May is full of celebrations and awarenesses.

Ones we are more familiar with and others only if impacted in extremes it may not seem to mean much…

Cinco de Mayo to Older American Month, Asthma and Allergy Awareness, Arthritis and even Skin Cancer awareness to Military Appreciation…

Mother’s Day -that can be full of mixed emotions. I got to spend mine with my children outside exploring being directed by the sounds of the bullfrogs, this Mother’s Day was full of laughter and fun…not every one of mine has felt joyous and not everyone’s feels joyful.

And lastly…Mental Health Awareness Month-that can be full of mixed emotions.

Life’s seasons can be complicated and I am here for you in EACH of them…

04/01/2025

Did you know that infant massage benefits includes
Supporting Infant/Child Development?

Learn more here

The Benefits of Infant Massage Numerous studies have shown the many developmental benefits of positive contact as part of baby’s early life. Touch is your baby’s first language, and infant massage is one of the most natural and pleasant methods of providing this early nurturing contact. Scroll o...

03/14/2025

Get Connected, Reconnect, Stay Connected. To not feel so alone and isolated.

I have some opportunities for just that! Connection through supportive, welcoming groups:

~My Mom's Peer Support Group (a complementary service for our community).
~I am offering Sensational Baby, a 5-week infant massage course for parents to learn more nurturing communication skills. The first class will beginning April 3rd at 11:30a. More info to follow.

It can be scary to try something new with new people. You are brave and hey...why not give it a try!

Check out the link below to read the entire fact sheet on Maternal Mental Health Conditions.

https://www.mmhla.org/maternal-mental-health-conditions

10/08/2024

Ruby Jackson, a 23-year-old student has developed an app, "Melanatal," to address gaps in the recognition of maternal and neonatal conditions

10/01/2024

Today, I settled into my quaint office.

My private practice, Anchor & Soar, is now located at Encounter Freedom Therapy Center -still focusing on Maternal Mental Health.

Smile 😊 Your presence makes the world a brighter place.

09/29/2024

Moved to a new office and am looking forward to what is ahead. Also, participated in an inspiring training with Postpartum Support International that I will be sharing a variety of info from...stay tuned.