Avi Anderson, LMSW CSWi

In-person therapy in Las Vegas; virtual anywhere in Nevada.

“Thank you so much, you made me cry. You are one of a kind. I am so lucky to have you in my life. I was so proud to open up to you and will not stop admiring you. You are so down-to-earth, no showing-off, just the real you.

– Privately Disclosed

Why I Became a Therapist

For a long time, I lived as two versions of myself: the capable, put‑together one everyone saw, and the quieter part holding anxiety and pain I kept hidden. Training as a therapist, I stayed in the “professional” role and tried to leave my own story out of the room, believing that was what helping meant.

At a suicide prevention conference, hearing a speaker share openly about his struggles without polishing them made it impossible to keep my own history tucked away. I realized I could not keep doing this work while leaving out the part of me that actually understands what it feels like to struggle, and I stopped trying to split my life into “acceptable” and “quiet” parts.

I let myself integrate and be whole, and that changed the way I showed up as a therapist. My work stopped being about techniques and started being about connection, presence, and actually sitting with someone as a human being, not just a role or title. The more I allowed myself to be real, the deeper the work became, clients opened up in new ways, and the room felt more honest and alive.

I became a therapist because I know what it feels like to carry difficult emotions while keeping life moving. I stay a therapist because when I show up fully, without dividing myself into pieces, it helps other people show up fully too.

That is the heart of my work. Being present. Being human. Being real.

I have 6-year-old triplets – They keep me on my toes, and life is never boring.

I’m a rabbi and a therapist – Balancing both roles gives me a unique perspective on spirituality, personal growth, and mental health.

I love beer and ice cream, especially together – It may sound odd, but don’t knock it ‘till you try it.  

I’d rather order food than cook – The kitchen and I have an understanding ... I stay out of its way.

I’m a terrible New York driver – I try my best, but let’s just say I embrace the chaos.

I have New York vibes sometimes, but I’m still a nice person – Fast-paced, direct, but always with heart.

I worked hard to drop my New York accent – Some things slip through, but I gave it my best shot.

I love driving through car washes with my kids – sky roof open (not the windows!) so we can watch the whole thing. It’s basically a ride.

I believe in stepping into discomfort for real change – It’s not easy, but it’s where growth happens, and I bring that mindset into therapy.

I value deep, meaningful connections – Whether with my family, clients, or community, genuine relationships matter most to me.

    • Master’s in Social Work (MSW)

    • Master’s in Education

    • Ordained Rabbi

    • Certified Hypnotherapist

    • Certified Life Coach

    • Certified Gottman Training Leader

I’ve spent over a decade helping people untangle anxiety, deepen their relationships, and reconnect with their purpose.

With advanced training in tools like ERP, ACT, IFS, EFT, and the Gottman Method, I’m all about using real strategies to help you feel more grounded, clear, and in control.

But more than anything, I believe therapy works best when it’s built on trust, honesty, and showing up as fully human—together.

Clients tell me they feel seen in our work—not just nodded at, but really understood.

I’ll challenge you when it’s needed, but always with warmth and care.

I show up as a real human in the room, not a blank slate.

That means I’ll share insights, sometimes a laugh, and always a deep investment in your growth.

Professional Endorsements

Let’s get started.

Contact Me!