Kiki Avila, lPC

My Journey into Mental Health

My journey into mental health did not start in college, it actually began in high school, and possibly even before that. Aside from the typical teen experiences, I was depressed, lonely, anxious, and fantasizing about a day when I would feel safe and happy. Although I did well academically, I deeply disliked high school. The few classes I actually looked forward to were my art classes and my psychology class.

The art room was my safe space, a place where I could dive deep into the creative flow. At the time, I didn’t realize that art was teaching me vital life skills: problem-solving, tolerance, patience, adaptability, perseverance, and acceptance. I knew art was helping me, but I didn't yet have the words to express how.

Discovering Art Therapy

During my senior year, I knew I wanted to pursue a path that combined art and psychology. A visiting recruiter introduced me to the field of Art Therapy, which integrated both of my passions. That moment sparked my journey toward becoming a psychotherapist.

I earned my bachelor’s degree at Alverno College, followed by a deeply meaningful graduate program at Mount Mary University, where I received my degree in Art Therapy. During my graduate internship, I worked with children and adolescents, which eventually led to a full-time role as a school-based mental health therapist.

An elk lying on green grass under a large tree with a thick bark. In the background, there are blurred buildings, a porch, and colorful hanging flower baskets.
Collage of dogs, including a German Shepherd lying on the ground, a large dog with erect ears near a lake, and two dogs in a forest setting.
People kayaking through a narrow canyon with high red rock walls, blue sky above, during daytime.
Young bear in the forest, surrounded by green grass and trees, with a large nest made of sticks and branches in the background.
A dirt trail running through a field of yellow and green wildflowers with layered eroded rock formations and a cloudy sky in the background.

Expanding My Practice

While school-based therapy was fulfilling, I wanted to reach and serve a broader population. Through my thesis research, I realized the urgent need for BIPOC clinicians in the mental health field. Clients deserve therapists who reflect, validate, and understand their lived cultural experiences. Representation matters, and I am committed to being that presence.

This realization led me to transition into private practice. Today, I work with diverse adults (ages 18–36) who are looking to process childhood trauma, emotionally immature parents, intergenerational trauma, cultural identity, and a wide range of mental health concerns.

Beyond the Therapy Room

Outside of my practice, I am an avid traveler and lover of the outdoors. You can often find me hiking, camping, or wildlife-watching. A few of my favorite places to explore are Yellowstone National Park, Zion National Park, and Estes Park in Colorado.

I also love discovering new coffee shops across Wisconsin (if you have a favorite recommendation, let me know so I can add it to my list!). In my downtime, I enjoy reading, nature walks, farmers markets, making art, watching my favorite YouTubers, and spending quality time with my pups.

let’s Get to know you.