Claire Avitabile

I have always believed that people are the experts of their own lives. No one else can tell your story better or more accurately than you can. Unfortunately, many people struggle to find a place where they feel seen, heard, or validated. For some, their experiences or stories are painful, or get in the way of goals or daily functioning. For others, they are a barrier to growth. In my work, I strive to create a collaborative, supportive, and affirming therapeutic space where clients feel heard, understood, and believed; a space that promotes self-discovery and personal growth, and where clients feel safe to explore their narratives, including the ones they may wish to change. Utilizing a person-centered and strengths-based approach that is grounded in respect and encouragement, I draw inspiration in my work from Adlerian, Narrative, and CBT concepts.

I have a special interest in working with the LGTBQ+ community, including both youth and adults anywhere on their gender or sexuality journey, as well as queer and trans couples, families, and groups. I provide a sex-positive space that welcomes all relational models, including non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships, and I will honor your personal definitions of identity, love, family, and more. Other topics I am interested in working with include anxiety, grief or ambiguous loss, body image, and developmental trauma.

Currently I am pursuing my master’s degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling from Adler Graduate School, and am interning at Edges Wellness Center in Minneapolis, MN. Previously, I worked as a theatre director, teacher, and mentor, most notably as the founder and Executive Director of 20% Theatre Company in Minneapolis (2007-2022) whose mission was to encourage and empower LGTBQ+ artists through the development and performance of new work.

Please reach out if you think we might be a good fit. I look forward to connecting and accompanying you on your path to well-being!