Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
or

Denise A. Ayo

Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC (she, her)

Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
3 Endorsed
3835 Edison Lakes Parkway, Suite 200, Mishawaka, IN 46545
Let's Connect (574) 900-3140
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Do you (or someone close to you) love video games? Does it seem like the only place you belong is online or in game? Do games give you a place where you can be the person you wish you could be IRL? Video games are one of the most pervasive forms of media today. They hone important skills like perseverance, curiosity, and problem-solving. In addition, they provide social connection, clear rules and expectations, opportunities to try on new roles and identities, and immersive narratives that allow us to explore (or escape) ourselves and the world around us.
I am a gamer who has published and taught on video games and pop culture. I am also a licensed counselor who is passionate about integrating geek culture into the therapeutic process. I welcome adult and adolescent gamers facing such challenges as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief as well as those who believe their gaming has become problematic.
TLDR: If video games bring value to your life, I want to use them in our work together. If they are an issue, I want to help you to restore balance.
Call or Denise A. Ayo now for a free 15 minute consultation - (574) 900-3140

My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Recore Counseling

3835 Edison Lakes Parkway

Suite 200

Mishawaka, IN 46545 map

(574) 900-3140
My website
Geek Therapy Certified
I specialize in Neurodivergent Affirming and LGBTQIA+ Affirming 
$160 Per Session  
Individual one-on-one therapy 
Please watch my video to learn more about me and my practice.
Denise A. Ayo
Let's Connect (574) 900-3140
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC

My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Recore Counseling

3835 Edison Lakes Parkway

Suite 200

Mishawaka, IN 46545 map

(574) 900-3140
My website
Geek Therapy Certified
I specialize in Neurodivergent Affirming and LGBTQIA+ Affirming 
$160 Per Session  
Individual one-on-one therapy 
Please watch my video to learn more about me and my practice.
Denise A. Ayo

Finances

Fees

  • Individual Sessions $160

Payment Methods

American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Health Savings Account, Mastercard, Visa
"
Recore Counseling is able to work with a number of insurance plans. Please reach out to verify coverage.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140
"
Recore Counseling is able to work with a number of insurance plans. Please reach out to verify coverage.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140

Qualifications

  • Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of Indiana / 39005518A Denise A. Ayo
  • Additional Credentials

  • Degree/Diploma from University of Notre Dame, Ph.D. in English Ph.D. in English / 2013
  • Degree/Diploma from Indiana University South Bend, M.S.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling / 2022
"
I often pull from my background in media studies when exploring the significance of a client's favorite (N)PC, game, or genre.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140
"
I often pull from my background in media studies when exploring the significance of a client's favorite (N)PC, game, or genre.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialties

  • Neurodivergent Affirming
  • LGBTQIA+ Affirming

Expertise

  • ADHD
  • Anxiety
  • Asperger's Syndrome
  • Autism
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Career Counseling
  • Depression
  • Divorce
  • Grief
  • LGBTQ+
  • Life Transitions
  • Men's Issues
  • Parenting
  • Peer Relationships
  • Relationship Issues
  • School Issues
  • Self Esteem
  • Stress
  • Transgender
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Women's Issues
"
Sessions may include talking about games, playing games, and/or creating game-inspired tools together. We will work together to decide what makes the most sense for you and your process.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140
"
Sessions may include talking about games, playing games, and/or creating game-inspired tools together. We will work together to decide what makes the most sense for you and your process.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140

3 Endorsements

Ronshaela Nailer
Ronshaela Nailer
Mental Health Counselor AssociateMALCMHCA
I recommend Denise for her strong dedication and expertise in counseling. She consistently demonstrates professionalism and collaborates effectively with the team. Her skills and knowledge contribute positively to our work environment and client outcomes.
Sara Sage
Sara Sage
CounselorMSLMHCLPCLCPC
Denise uses a personal passion - video gaming - to engage with many clients who share a similar passion. This is cutting edge therapy and her particular genius to use the process and story of the game to support important inner work. I endorse Denise!
Elise Walter
Elise Walter
Clinical Social Work/TherapistMSEdLMHCA
Denise is a passionate and deeply caring therapist who is constantly evaluating and evolving to meet the needs of her clients. She brings an unconventional spin to sessions by embracing all things "geek"!

Client Focus

Age

Teen
Adults

Participants

Individuals

Age

Teen
Adults

Participants

Individuals

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
  • Integrative
  • Person-Centered
  • Psychodynamic
"
Think of me as the Navi to your Link. I offer support and guidance as you explore the connections between your past and your present; gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; and discover the tools you need to make progress in your epic quest.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140
"
Think of me as the Navi to your Link. I offer support and guidance as you explore the connections between your past and your present; gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; and discover the tools you need to make progress in your epic quest.
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (574) 900-3140

Location

Primary Location

Recore Counseling

3835 Edison Lakes Parkway

Suite 200

Mishawaka, IN 46545

(574) 900-3140
"
Geek Therapy Certified
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call for a free consultation now - (574) 900-3140
"
Geek Therapy Certified
Photo of Denise A. Ayo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Denise A. Ayo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Call for a free consultation now - (574) 900-3140