Jacob Avila LPC, NCC

I have a clinical history of working with youth in high-acuity care who present with a history of behavioral and emotional challenges, including trauma, anxiety, attention challenges, depression, grief and loss, anger concerns, and more. I promote a therapeutic relationship and caring environment to provide children with a safe space to express their thoughts and emotions in an open-minded and accepting manner. I also understand the importance of promoting individualism and autonomy.

Throughout my 4 years of clinical experience, I have come to understand that anxiety is an aspect of life that is present in all individuals. I support clients in understanding how to manage their symptoms of anxiety by utilizing CBT, DBT, person-centered, and trauma-informed therapy techniques, while also encouraging clients to develop positive coping skills, self-care techniques, community involvement for support, and healthy thought-reframing processes.

Self-Esteem is an important aspect of all individuals that supports our states of motivation, focus and attention in our activities of daily living (employment, education, social, etc.), and development throughout the human stages of life. Especially when considering the volatile and sensitive state that are children's early development throughout their childhood, I emphasize exploring client's personalities, areas of comfort, and areas of concern to promote long-lasting growth in a safe manner.

Psychodynamic Therapy alongside Existential Therapy is as a key treatment modality I incorporate into therapy treatment with many of my clients, as I feel that this set of therapies combined allow for a holistic view of an individual's life based on their past, present, and future ambitions. I have found that these therapies combined provide comfort and space for continued exploration to take place where clients can explore many of their concerns in one cohesive and attentive manner.

Person-Centered Therapy is my primary approach when working with clients, as I maintain a strong focus on client's presenting concerns and their needs. Life can throw many curveballs as all of us, and being able to have a safe space with a safe, warm, and open-minded therapeutic relationship can be key in allowing clients to process their most important thoughts and emotions as they arise. I also encourage an integration of client's present thoughts into their main treatment goals and plans.

Play Therapy is the primary therapy treatment I utilize when working with you. With 4 years of clinical experience working with youth between the ages of 5 and 17, I have found that 'play' is the most beneficial and expressive form of communication in these intelligent and creative young clients. Play Therapy, whether that be through art, stories, games, creativity, and imagination allows for young clients to experience feeling understand and accepted, while also encouraging safe relationships.