meet Olivia Bates
Olivia is a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working toward licensure and Independent Contractor.
Initiating therapy together is a courageous act of advocacy, a transformative step towards healing and growth in your relationship. It's a profound choice that honors your past and unlocks pathways to more fulfilling ways of navigating life’s challenges. Whether you're facing concerns around your relationships, sexuality and intimacy, parenting, boundaries, communication, or conflict resolution, my goal is to provide a space where you can be seen, heard, and understood. I welcome all family structures and partnerships, including polyamorous, LGBTQIA+, and interracial relationships, supporting you in finding joy, wellness, and balance. Additionally, I love working with children through play therapy to navigate issues of adoption, trauma, divorce, and more.
My work as a Marriage and Family Therapy practitioner takes a holistic, Systems approach to understanding relationships of all kinds where nothing exists in isolation; all things are interconnected, whether it is emotional, relational, biological, spiritual, or otherwise. Using a person-centered and trauma-informed approach, I create a safe, inclusive space to explore how your connections shape your experiences and guide you towards meaningful, holistic change.
Beyond my practice, I'm a joy-seeker, animal fanatic, and aerial circus arts enthusiast. As an avid wedding and elopement photographer, I cherish capturing authentic moments and connections. Just like in therapy, I find joy in creatively connecting with individuals, partners, and families on their journey of love and commitment, witnessing and preserving genuine expressions through both the lens and the art of therapy.
Areas of interest:
Ages 6 - 100+
Trauma
Anxiety
Depression
Sexuality and Gender Identity
ADHD and Autism
Relationship and Marriage Issues
Cultural Issues
Immigrants and RefugeesDivorce Recovery
Life Transitions
Self-Esteem
Training and Experience:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Bethel University
Bachelor of Arts in Reconciliation Studies at Bethel University
Prepare and Enrich Certified
Brainspotting Phase 1 Trained
Availability
Monday and Thursday: In the Playroom
Friday: Teen/Adult In-office
Accepted Insurance
Aetna
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Health Partners
Medical Assistance
Preferred One
UCare
Also offers a private pay option
*Does not accept Optum/Medica/United Healthcare/United Behavioral Health
“We can choose courage or we can choose comfort, but we can’t have both. Not at the same time. Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome."
-Brené Brown, Rising Strong