Jennifer Vela, LICSW — Therapist in Minnesota

Hi there, I'm Jennifer!

I am a bilingual therapist who works with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, addiction, grief, and major life transitions. My goal is to support you in feeling understood and grounded while we work together to ease the emotional weight you have been carrying and help you move toward healing and growth at a pace that feels right for you.

My focus

I work with individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, burnout, grief, and life transitions. Together, we explore what works best for you and create a plan that feels grounded, supportive, and achievable, helping you move forward with greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

My approach

My approach to therapy is holistic and person-centered, honoring the connection between mind, body, and community. I believe that healing happens when all parts of you are given space, not just your symptoms. I integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, somatic approaches, and mindfulness-based practices.

My communication style

My priority is creating a space where communication feels clear, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I value honesty, warmth, and collaboration, and I aim to meet you with respect and curiosity so you feel heard, understood, and safe exploring your experiences at your own pace.

My journey to mental healthcare

My path into this work began with a deep desire to understand people and walk alongside them through difficult seasons. My lived experiences shape a culturally aware, compassionate approach grounded in evidence-based care, where clients feel safe, seen, and genuinely understood.

My goals for you

I take a collaborative and flexible approach to goal setting. Together, we create a plan that feels realistic and meaningful, while allowing space to adjust goals as new insights emerge and we explore concerns more deeply, ensuring treatment continues to meet your evolving needs.

Our first session

In your first session, you can expect a supportive, low-pressure space focused on getting to know you and what brings you to therapy. We’ll explore your goals, discuss any concerns, and move at a pace that feels comfortable, respectful, and aligned with your readiness.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Narrative

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 6 more

Focus populations

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

LGBTQIA+

Single Mother

+ 3 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem
Arlo

+ 26 more

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Education

Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) Mental Health and Substance Use from The University of Texas at Arlington.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Jennifer Vela