Ava makes the session comfortable. I always look forward to my sessions with her.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Ava
See what other clients say
Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Life Transition, Anxiety, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Ava
Ava Baker is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with diverse populations. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, conduct disorders, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem issues, and family/parenting issues. Before becoming a counselor, Ava spent 28 years as an elementary school teacher. She has worked with individuals, couples, and families in settings including the juvenile justice system, school-based therapy, and community health. Ava’s professional and personal experiences enable her to support and guide clients in dealing with life stressors.
Ava has a Master’s in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She utilizes a wide range of therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. Ava recognizes that change comes from within and employs a client-centered approach to treatment.
Ava believes that the challenges and struggles we face can help us grow and that everyone can develop the skills to have a healthy and fulfilling life. She encourages her clients to live today, plan for tomorrow, and love themselves so that they can shine. Schedule an appointment today!
"As a woman, mother, and spouse who has experienced many life challenges and transitions, I offer an understanding and exploration in being the best you can be."
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
Ava makes the session comfortable. I always look forward to my sessions with her.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Ava
Ava is a very thoughtful, caring listener and gives good advice.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Ava
Felt very non-judgmental.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Ava
Very comfortable environment. Trusting.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Ava
Get to know Ava
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
In my life, I have dealt with many stressful events that required me to find ways to continue to function in life. As a mother, I faced challenges being a stepmother, raising and supporting a son with ASD and a daughter with ADHD as well as supporting her with the struggles of having a “special" brother. As an adult, I faced many challenges deal with life transitions and how to find a way to navigate life as a widow and professional stressors. These life events led me to the desire to find a way to help others deal with life stressors and maintain in difficult life events. As a middle aged woman, I went back to graduate school to gain the needed skills to follow my calling in life.
What types of clients do you work with best?
Although I worked most of my life working with children, I have found that I have a strong desire to work with adults. I work well with adults both young and more mature dealing with life transitions and the difficulties that are experienced. As I have matured in life, I work best with adults.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am most excited in working with adults that need assistance in dealing with life transitions. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and supporting others in finding strategies to navigate this thing we call life.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy spending time at the beach and traveling with my spouse. I believe that healthy work/ life balance is important in maintaining. My favorite activity at the beach is fishing and spending time with friends. I also enjoy spending treasured time with my adult children and grandchildren. Life is about finding time to enjoy all things in life.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
My goal is to work with clients to assist/support in developing coping strategies to deal with issues that create difficulties in life. My life experiences and work experience have assisted me in developing learning tools to build the best possible life even when given “bumps in the road” happen. I work every day to find positives and learn to deal with life changes and stressors. I have recognized that we all deal with experiences that can take our “joy” away but with work it can be found
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 8 years
- Graduating institute
- Grand Canyon University
- Graduating degree
- Masters in General Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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