Meet Nikita Tavares, MPS

Life is not always smooth sailing, and sometimes we may feel stuck as we navigate the unknown. No matter what you are going through, whether it be depression, anxiety, low self-worth, difficulty adjusting to changes etc., your experience is valid. As a therapist, I am here to help you journey through the difficult moments of life so that they feel less overwhelming. I will work alongside you in defining what a more meaningful and fulfilling life looks like for you. 

Past experiences can shape the way we think about ourselves, others, and the world around us. These beliefs or narratives further shape how we interact with the world and can sometimes cause us to feel stuck in responding to situations or stressors. Not only might we feel stuck emotionally or mentally, but physically within our bodies too. Feeling stuck can look like not knowing what to do next, experiencing a lack of motivation in life etc.

​As a therapist, I will provide a space that is calming, nonjudgmental, and regulating so that you can feel comfortable and safe in sharing your story and in exploring all the different parts that make up who you are. We will work together in finding different ways of feeling, thinking, and being so that you can begin to feel unstuck and live more fully in the present moment. The ultimate goal is for you to feel empowered in approaching life with greater clarity, ease, and calm. 

My therapeutic approach is existential in nature; I value thinking about life’s big questions (who am I? What is my purpose in life?) and exploring the root causes of the problems we face. I draw from various evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), somatic approaches, and mindfulness-based techniques. As someone who was born and raised in India, I value the importance of community and interconnectedness with others. I integrate collectivist values into my therapeutic work, especially when working with people from collectivist backgrounds or cultures.

I work with adults from all walks of life, including those who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQIA+. I have experience working with people who have depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use-related issues or addiction, difficulty with life transitions, and identity-related issues. I also have training in working with people with sexual wellbeing problems. 

I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a master’s degree in integrated behavioral health. I am currently working on obtaining licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) under the supervision of Joan Hause, MA, MFA, LPCC. I am also in the process of becoming a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). 

Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my cat (Bubba). I do value time on my own and find a lot of joy in sewing, playing the piano, practicing yoga, and watching TV. I also foster cats!

I appreciate you taking the time to get to know me as a therapist and person.

I am in-network with the following insurance providers: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Partners, Hennepin Health, Medical Assistance (MA), Preferred One, and UCare. I also accept private pay and Health Savings Accounts.

To schedule a session with Nikita, fill out our "Book Appointment" form below.