Olivia Lavelle

Great Day! I'm Olivia Lavelle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the school setting and mental health agencies. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful modality for healing trauma. In my therapeutic approach, I collaborate with individuals, utilizing unconditional positive regard and empathy, while incorporating a touch of humor. Specializing in school-related issues from the perspectives of students, parents, and teachers, I focus on navigating life transitions, addressing challenges, and providing support in areas such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, including childhood trauma. If you're seeking a compassionate partner for your mental health journey, I'm here to guide you toward self-discovery and healing.

My approach

In my therapeutic approach, I draw upon a blend of person-centered, strengths-based, and evidence-based modalities. I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process and heal from trauma. I also incorporate a psychodynamic approach to explore and understand unconscious processes and past experiences that influence current behavior. By exploring these unconscious processes, you can develop greater self-awareness, insight into their relational patterns, and a clearer understanding of their motivations and behaviors, ultimately leading to meaningful and lasting change. Collaboratively, I engage clients with Motivational Interviewing to enhance intrinsic motivation for positive change. Problem-solving techniques are woven into our work, fostering practical strategies to address life challenges. My focus spans various areas, including trauma, interpersonal conflicts, social skills, communication, attachment styles, and school-related issues.

My focus

I typically work with a diverse range of clients, including youth, adolescents, young adults, and adults. My expertise lies in addressing various conditions and challenges, with a focus on trauma, interpersonal conflicts, self-esteem, women's issues, social skills, communication, attachment styles, and school-related issues. I am most comfortable treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, including childhood trauma. I approach each client with a personalized and empathetic perspective, tailoring my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs and foster your journey toward self-discovery and healing.

My communication style

In my therapy sessions, I cultivate a warm and empathetic environment, aiming to create a space that is both supportive and collaborative. Clients often describe the atmosphere as inviting and non-judgmental, where they feel heard and understood. I integrate a touch of humor to add a comfortable and human element to our interactions. Working with me is characterized by a compassionate partnership where we navigate challenges together, utilizing a blend of evidence-based practices, problem-solving, and motivational interviewing. The goal is to provide a safe and encouraging setting that promotes self-exploration, resilience, and progress on the path to healing.

My journey to mental healthcare

My decision to become a therapist stemmed from recognizing that people naturally gravitated towards me. I've always been the person unburdened by the challenges and stories of my friends, providing a calming presence. The passion for being a listening ear evolved into a professional pursuit. A significant life experience further fueled my desire to help others. Navigating my own journey proved liberating, inspiring me to empower others to take control of their emotional health.

My goals for you

My approach to goal-setting is collaborative, involving a deep exploration of your desires for change. I see goal-setting as the blueprint for your healing journey, creating a roadmap to guide us toward meaningful and transformative outcomes.

My first session with you

In our initial session, you can anticipate a secure and empowering environment to openly share your life history. My primary objective in the first session is to understand you better – your strengths, interests, family history, as well as areas of challenge. We will discuss your rights as a client, review confidentiality, and establish any limits. As an experienced and approachable therapist, my aim is to offer you a grounded and safe space as we embark on the journey of healing together.