Lauren Smith, MSN, APRN, CPNP

I am passionate about caring for children and helping families navigate their health journeys. I am a pediatric nurse practitioner, specializing in developmental and neurodevelopmental disabilities, symptom management, lactation consulting, and pediatric primary care. I am dedicated to meeting patients and families where they are—in terms of their health and their psychosocial needs. Understanding each family's strengths and barriers to healthcare is crucial to creating the best outcomes.

My journey into healthcare was inspired by my father, who was a pediatric nurse. I loved looking through his textbooks and learning about the human body. I started my career as a pediatric nurse on the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit. I gained extensive knowledge and clinical skills required to care for children with chronic health conditions. Later, I transitioned to pediatric primary care.

At the South Avondale Health Center, I contribute to a healthy community and serving students as they grow and learn. I believe in the importance of understanding each patient's life situation to provide comprehensive care. In June 2025, I was honored to be nominated for Advanced Practice Provider Preceptor of the Year by one of my students. This reflects my passion for teaching and advocating for patients and future healthcare providers.

Outside of work, I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. My husband and I enjoy traveling (we are always open for a road trip) and riding roller coasters. We love to eat and spend time outside with our two sons. Although, I have three bonus sons as well. I love animals—we have three dogs and a betta fish, who are all males. When I need a quiet moment away from the fellas, I enjoy painting, coloring, reading, gardening as well as girl time with my friends.