Avery Powell
Practicum Therapist
Seeing clients in Illinois, in-person or virtually.
Life can feel confusing and overwhelming at times. Maybe you’re in the middle of a big change or struggling with emotions that are hard to name. You might notice patterns in your reactions or relationships that leave you wondering, Why do I feel this way? or Why can’t I break free? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and therapy can be a space to explore those questions safely and deeply.
I create a warm, welcoming environment where you can bring your whole self—without judgment or rushing. My approach is rooted in curiosity and compassion, as I’m genuinely interested in understanding your story, your struggles, and your strengths. Supported by a network of skilled therapists and ongoing supervision, I’m committed to providing care that is thoughtful, informed, and tailored just for you.
My work often centers around helping people uncover the deeper “whys” beneath their feelings and behaviors. Using psychodynamic therapy, we look into how past experiences quietly shape your present reactions and relationships. This process can reveal the roots of recurring patterns and help you process difficult emotions connected to those experiences. At the same time, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you understand how your current thoughts influence your actions, giving you practical tools to create change in your day-to-day life.
Some of the challenges I often support clients with include anxiety, family conflicts, peer relationships, trauma, and life transitions. These are areas I’ve explored deeply through ongoing training and personal reflection, which enrich my ability to walk alongside you with empathy and insight.
Every client’s journey is unique, so I also draw from a wide range of approaches—from mindfulness and acceptance-based methods to family systems and trauma-focused therapies—to meet you exactly where you are.
Change can feel daunting, but reaching out for support is an act of strength. You matter, and I look forward to hearing your story and partnering with you as you discover your “why” and move toward greater clarity and healing.
Specialties and Expertise
ADHD
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Bipolar Disorder
Body Positivity
Borderline Personality Disorder
Career Counseling
Child
Depression
Divorce
Domestic Abuse
Domestic Violence
Eating Disorders
Family Conflict
Infidelity
Life Coaching
Life Transitions
Marital and Premarital
Obsessive-Compulsive
Parenting
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
School Issues
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Sports Performcance
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Testing and Evaluation
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Treatment Approach
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT)
Emotionally Focused
Family Systems
Humanistic
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Interpersonal
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
Person-Centered
Psychodynamic
Strength-Based
Structural Family Therapy
Trauma Focused