“Once you start approaching your body with curiosity rather than fear, everything shifts.” - Bessel van der Kolk

Ariel Kaufman (she, her)
Psychotherapist

Ariel Kaufman completed her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. She has clinical experience working with adults and adolescents at Ambre Associates and the Bette D. Harris Clinic at The Family Institute.

Ariel draws from her integrative training to provide individualized therapeutic experiences to holistically support the diverse needs of her clients. Her clinical focus is on trauma, neurodivergence (with specific interest in autism), and queer identities, as well as their intersections. Ariel helps her clients recognize the impact of trauma, oppression, and diet culture on our ability to feel safe in our bodies. She does so by incorporating somatic techniques throughout her practice.

Ariel believes that therapy can empower us to reclaim our own wisdom and self-efficacy by relating to ourselves and others in new ways. Trained in psychodynamic frameworks, Ariel collaborates with clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and nervous systems in order to make changes that are consistent with their goals and reflect their values. She is passionate about helping clients achieve more authentic and greater connections with the people in their lives and communities. 

In session with Ariel, you can expect collaboration, curiosity, and creativity. Her priority is supporting her clients in improving their everyday lives. This drives her to find balance between uncovering the roots of  no-longer-helpful patterns and implementing behavioral strategies. Her work is informed by ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy.