At a glance
Best fit for: Young adults, identity and self-esteem, neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, trauma/PTSD, mood/bipolar, relationships and attachment; adults.
Approaches: Relational Therapy, DBT, art therapy, psychodynamic.
Who Am I?
Hi, my name is Ava (she/her) and I work with teens and adults. I am a cisgender, white, queer woman. I believe the intersectional identities we hold are what shapes our experience as unique human beings. I aim to be an advocate and ally to people of all backgrounds, and I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive perspective grounded in liberation frameworks.
I specialize in working with:
- Young adults navigating the transition to adulthood
- Chronic stress and burnout
- Neurodivergent adults
- People focused on identity exploration, self-esteem, and self-image
- Difficulties with relationships, attachment, and intergenerational trauma
- People affected by mood and anxiety disorders
- Those wanting to improve their relationships and find community
- High achievers who feel overwhelmed by anxiety and/or depression that others might not see
- Those who want more out of life than just getting by
- Those who are very hard on themselves and want to learn to turn off their inner critic
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How I help
I show up with authenticity, and I am far from a “blank slate” therapist. Therapy does not have to be super serious, and I love being able to share a laugh and use humor to heal. My therapeutic style is warm, person-centered, and combines a psychodynamic, relational approach with DBT skill-building tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to help you learn to accept yourself as you are while committing to making changes that align with your goals and values. Together we’ll deconstruct relational patterns, process complex emotions, and make room for new perspectives.
What a session with me is like
There is no right or wrong way to be a client and this space is about you. I create a calm, relaxed atmosphere where we go at your pace. I value working together as a team to create goals that align with what you are looking to get out of therapy, even when you might feel the hair on your back stand up when you hear the word, “goals”. I value feedback from my clients on what’s going well and what you might disagree with me on. I advocate for the use of fidgets in therapy with many to choose from in my office, and I encourage you to bring in any items that help you stay grounded in session such as an art project, blanket, snack, essential oils, etc.
What I believe
The most powerful tool in therapy is the relationship between the therapist and client, built on mutual respect and trust.
A little more about me
In my free time my favorite hobby is tending to my ever-growing plant collection while drinking iced coffee. I also like to cook, bake, knit, and make art. If you are ever curious, I would love to show you a project I’m working on. I love trying new things and being spontaneous. I’m also a big fan of reality TV when I want to unwind and turn my brain off.
I’m excited to meet you soon!
A few common questions
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes, I see clients virtually across Illinois, and in person at our Sauganash office.
What do you help with most?
Identity and self-esteem, young-adult transitions, burnout, relationships and attachment, and mood and anxiety disorders.
What insurance do you take?
BCBS PPO and Optum/United, with BCBS HMO and Aetna coming soon.
- AetnaBCBS HMO NorthshoreBCBS PPOOptum/United
