Avis Calhoun LPC | IL Telehealth DBT & Somatic Therapist

Hello, my name is Avis Calhoun (she/her). You may be looking for a therapist who is culturally sensitive and has a deep understanding of diverse perspectives, experiences, and the impact of mental health symptoms. My approach uses evidenced based practices to work with depression, anxiety, anger, and trauma. I am skilled and experienced in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Somatic therapies.

I see therapy as guiding individuals and couples towards recovery and healing. I offer a safe space to process trauma, release stored tension through mindfulness, and learn healthier ways to think and cope. 

My professional background includes working with those coping with PTSD, Substance Use, childhood trauma, and mood disorders. I have professional experience in the forensic setting working with incarcerated individuals. I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in community mental health settings. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming. I also enjoy working with folks who have specific cultural and identity issues that they want to explore.

As a Therapist, my belief is that rapport and honesty is important to establishing a trusting and autonomous therapist-client relationship. I am enthusiastic about destigmatizing mental health, boosting cultural awareness within mental health, and incorporating telehealth technology in mental health to reach those that typically do not have access to therapy. I believe that therapy can relieve mental health symptoms and offer tangible benefits.

Areas of focus:

Mood disorders

DBT and CBT trained

Somatic Therapy

Mindfulness and Meditation

Neurodivergent Affirming

BIPOC Issues

LGBTQ+ Issues

Childhood Trauma and PTSD

Incarceration and Re-Entry

Anxiety and Stress

Couples and Pre-Marital Therapy

Adoption and Foster Care

Anger

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I received my Bachelor’s Degree (BA) in Psychology and Sociology from Ashford University and my Master's Degree (MA) in Counseling with specialization in Forensic Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I was born and raised in Chicago and currently reside in the western suburbs of Chicago with my husband of 27 years, 3 kids, and our 2 Shih Tzu's. In my free time, I enjoy music, dancing, crocheting, reading, movies, and traveling.

“A failure is not a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.” -B.F. Skinner