Lexi Rivera, MA, LCPC, CADC

Welcome! I’m Lexi Rivera

I specialize in helping individuals and couples heal and reclaim control over their overall well-being. Through a mindfulness and person-centered approach, I will help you process your unique experiences, both individually and within your relationships, and gain insight into how they have shaped you as a person and how you connect with others. Through therapy, we can explore your inner self, relationship patterns and dynamics, unload the weight you may carry, and develop the necessary tools to achieve your individual and relationship goals.

In my therapeutic approach, I respect your story and view you as the expert regarding your own life and experiences. When working with couples, I honor each partner’s individual perspective while also creating space to better understand the relationship as a whole. My commitment to intersectionality means I believe each layer of an individual’s identity should be considered in the therapy process. Therefore, we will work together to understand how these layers influence you, your relationships, and the ways you communicate and connect with others, while implementing approaches tailored to your individual or relationship needs. I strive to provide you with the unconditional support and gentle push needed to grow and change. Although inner and relational work can be uncomfortable and challenging, together we can implement curated strategies that fit your needs.

Knowing what it’s like sitting on the other side of the chair, I strive to provide a brave, open, empowering, and accepting space for individuals and couples to be themselves authentically. During our work together, we will explore past and present influences, patterns, and relationship dynamics, leading to “Ah-ha!” moments that provide you with personal insight and tools to move forward toward your goals. It is my intention to support and challenge you with openness, respect, understanding, and curiosity. I welcome the opportunity to meet you and work together toward your individual or relationship goals!

My Professional Background

I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and a fully Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Adler University. I earned a Bachelors in Psychological Science with a double minor in Criminal Justice Criminology and Women and Gender Studies.  

During my career as a clinician, I have gained experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples. Through a person-centered approach, I work collaboratively with individuals struggling with everyday stressors, anger, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, and traumatic grief. By incorporating mindfulness and creative writing techniques, I help individuals identify where they carry emotional weight as well as develop tools to overcome negative thinking and patterns.     

 In addition to working in private practice, I am a Trauma-Informed clinician at a transitional living facility for homeless adults and families in Chicago where I provide psychotherapy for individuals who seek support in navigating addiction recovery, pre- and post-incarceration transition, poverty, and trauma.  

Treatment Specialization Areas

  • Anxiety 

  • Depression 

  • Grief and Loss 

  • Self-esteem/Self-View 

  • Identity 

  • Perfectionism 

  • Relationships, i.e., family, couples, dating, domestic violence, trust issues, attachment 

  • Adjustment to Change, i.e., school, career, moving, new beginnings 

  • Addiction

  • Trauma (i.e., physical, emotional, mental, medical) 

Contact

I see clients both via telehealth as well as in-person in our downtown Chicago office location. Email me at lrivera@openmindtherapycenter.com to set up your first appointment. I look forward to working together!