Ava Plakio

Hello! I'm Ava, a proud native New Mexican who loves red chile, the Detroit Lions, my three dogs, and most of all, my amazing daughter. I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in New Mexico with a deep passion for helping others find healing and growth.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of New Mexico in 2008, and later completed my Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling from New Mexico Highlands University in 2019.

Over the years, I’ve worked with children, youth, and adults across a wide range of settings. Much of my career has been dedicated to supporting adults navigating mental health and addiction challenges. I specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help individuals process past trauma and build resilience. I also bring over a decade of experience as an educator with the Department of Corrections, where I facilitated group therapy focused on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address criminal thinking and defiant behavior.

I’m deeply committed to understanding and honoring the multicultural dynamics that shape our community. I believe therapy should never be one-size-fits-all. My approach is flexible, personalized, and grounded in the belief that every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported.

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I believe the first session sets the tone for everything that follows. When you meet with me, you can expect a space that is calm, welcoming, and centered entirely on you. My goal is to help you feel grounded, understood, and supported from the moment we begin.

During our first session, we’ll take time to talk about what brought you in, what you’ve been carrying, and what you hope will feel different in your life. I’ll ask thoughtful questions—not to judge or label you, but to understand your story, your strengths, and the patterns that may be shaping your current experience. You’re always in control of what you choose to share, and there is no pressure to “get it all out” at once.

We’ll also explore what therapy can look like for you. I’ll walk you through my approach, discuss any goals you may have, and collaborate with you to create a plan that feels realistic and meaningful. My style is warm, direct, and deeply human; I show up authentically, and I invite you to do the same at your own pace.

Most importantly, your first session is about connection. It’s a chance for you to get a sense of who I am as a therapist and whether I feel like the right fit for you. You deserve a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe, respected, and genuinely seen—and I’m committed to creating that environment from day one.

Taking the first step toward mental wellness is a powerful decision. I would be honored to walk this journey with you.