Vanessa Aders is a therapist-in-training who believes in the power of play, curiosity, and connection. Whether it’s through active creativity or a heartfelt chat, she sees imagination and relationship as essential ways that children (and adults!) make sense of their world. She creates a safe, trauma-informed space where resilience can emerge naturally.

Throughout her life, Vanessa has been drawn to movement, learning, and adventure, working as a sports, yoga, and dance coach, gifted and special needs tutor, eco-therapy guide, and even a chef! Before training as a therapist, Vanessa had a diverse career in corporate strategy supporting individuals and groups in overcoming intrapersonal and relational challenges to unlock their potential.

Her name, Vanessa, means butterfly—a symbol of transformation and new beginnings, mirroring her life’s experience. She brings her depth of experience into her work, drawing from dreamwork, somatic arts, compassionate inquiry, and mindfulness to tailor her approach and honor to each person’s unique unfolding.

Outside of the clinic, Vanessa finds joy and inspiration in nature, antique stores, on the dance floor (or beach!), and with her cat, Geppetto.

“Play is the highest form of research.” - Albert Einstein

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