Rev. Sergio Ayala, LCPC, LMHC

Rev. Sergio Ayala is a licensed counselor who brings a blend of clinical and pastoral experience to his work. He holds a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling and a Master of Divinity, and he is licensed as an LCPC and an LMHC. He has spent about a decade doing clinical work and more than 15 years in ministerial and pastoral roles.

He helps people manage stress and anxiety and supports those coping with addictions. He also works with people who have experienced trauma or abuse, and with those handling grief and loss. Dementia caregiver stress and compassion fatigue are areas he often addresses.

His approach starts from the belief that each person knows their own story. He listens first and follows the person's lead while offering tools from several therapy styles. Sessions can include practical skills from cognitive behavioral methods and space to reflect on meaning and values.

Sergio combines therapist training with pastoral experience to offer calm, direct support. He aims to help people build on existing strengths and take manageable steps toward change. Conversations are framed to clarify goals and identify small, useful changes.

He provides services in English and Spanish and holds licenses in Illinois and Iowa. Prospective clients can expect a steady, respectful presence and a focus on real-life coping strategies and emotional understanding.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and following the person’s lead to help them find their own solutions; it is useful for stress, relationship concerns, and building self-understanding. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches practical skills to change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can help with anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes. Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) looks at emotions in close relationships and helps people understand and shift patterns that cause repeated conflict or disconnection.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their goals, needs, and preferences. That choice can change over time as progress and priorities evolve.

If you are considering online sessions, confirm the specific session formats available before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy routine, reduce travel time, and allow for shorter check-ins when a full session is not needed. It can also accommodate people who prefer to speak in English or Spanish without geographic limits. The therapist will work with you to schedule sessions that fit your day and to adapt therapeutic techniques to an online setting.