Meet Nikita Tavares, MPS

You may feel like you are stuck or moving through life without purpose or meaning, like your brain is on autopilot reacting to the world instead of responding mindfully or with meaning. My role as a therapist involves helping people tap into their inner healing systems in order to turn down the volume of incessant thoughts, soften the rough edges of the past, and overall feel empowered in approaching life with greater clarity, ease, creativity, and confidence.

​As your therapist, I will provide a space that is nonjudgmental, regulating, and calming 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. Together we''ll explore ways to enhance your connections with Self and others, consider diverse perspectives, and navigate the world and all its challenges with greater intention and purpose. My practice is integrative in nature, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Existential Therapy, somatic approaches, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Therapy, an evidence-based therapy for processing traumatic and stressful experiences.
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I work with older adolescents (16 - 17) and adults (18+) from all walks of life, including those who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQIA+. I specialize in long-term/depth work with adults navigating existential, identity, and trauma-related issues. I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, substance use problems, relational concerns (including
navigating poly/ENM relationships), and sexual well-being problems. If you are an international student, immigrant, a non-citizen or on a non immigrant visa (H1B etc), I understand that these circumstances come with their unique challenges and hurdles and incorporate this understanding into my therapy practice. 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 hold a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota in Integrated Behavioral Health. I am currently working on obtaining licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) under the supervision of Melissa Erskine,MA, LMFT.
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Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my cats (Bubba and Chloe). I do value time on my own and find a lot of joy in sewing, playing the piano, practicing yoga, reading (mystery, sci fi, and fantasy) 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: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Partners, Hennepin Health, Medical Assistance (MA), and UCare. I also accept private pay and Health Savings Accounts.

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