Ilesa Bauer

You dread facing the day. Existing in society has filled you with doubt that you may ever live a life most authentic to yourself. Relationships have challenged you and you yearn to be able to navigate conflict without constant blow ups. You are afraid. You wonder how you will love your life and achieve your goals. You struggle to acknowledge that you need help. What if you could take your life back? The world spirals around you and you are ready to put yourself first. It is time to choose yourself.

I am queer and gender non conforming and my hair changes constantly to reflect that horrible stereotype that nonbinary people have blue hair but whatever :--) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving people in Virginia. I started my Music Education degree at James Madison University, dropped out several times and never finished. I got more nerdy about feelings and social justice and wanted to dig in more with people. I got my Bachelor’s of Social Work and Master’s of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. I’ve trained in Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Couples Work, and Brainspotting. I love utilizing techniques from Somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness and creative expression. When I am not doing therapy, you will find me making or listening to music, slummin it on the couch and binging television with my doggies, or practicing yoga.

My practice will center you and your needs in the community you live in. I know that you are your own best expert. I will listen and empower you. I am passionate and driven by community care. It has helped me immensely in times I have needed it and I am happy that I get to use my own skills to pour back into my town. It is my life’s goal to empower strong individuals to strengthen communities. I have struggled coming from a family that did not meet my needs growing up and found out during my own treatment that I am a bit of a nerd for emotional regulation and trauma healing.

I can help slow down the spiral. I specialize in working with LGBT+ adults who feel stuck in survival mode. First, we will create a map of your world and learn how you have successfully survived thus far. Then, we will discover new ways to navigate conflict and make a confident step forward towards the life you deserve. Let’s look forward to new days ahead.

You are worthy of a life you love. I am a therapist who will help you use your creative abilities and teach you new ways through therapeutic interventions to help you build the life you crave. It’s time for peace of mind, starting now.