Connie Toavs , LCSW, LICSW

Connie Toavs draws on training in psychology, gerontology, and social work to offer psychotherapy tailored to individuals, couples, families, and older adults. She has 10 years of clinical experience supporting people through PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, end-of-life concerns, chronic illness and medical conditions, personality disorders, intimate betrayal, and attachment or family-of-origin issues. Based in Minnesota, her practice also addresses relationship and intimacy challenges, stress and coping with life changes, addictions, LGBT concerns, caregiver strain, and compassion fatigue.

Connie emphasizes a calm, nonjudgmental approach that centers on life review and thoughtful exploration. She works with clients to identify recurring patterns that undermine functioning or relationships, clarifies how those patterns affect emotional and physiological responses, and collaborates to develop practical strategies for change. Her goal is to help clients build understanding and skills that improve day-to-day coping and interpersonal functioning.

She holds LCSW and LICSW credentials, clinical social work licenses that reflect specialized training and authorization to provide psychotherapy. Connie aims to create a welcoming, peaceful environment that supports people through transitions, healing from trauma, and the challenges of chronic or terminal illness while honoring each person’s unique history and needs.

Therapeutic approaches and online therapy with Connie Toavs

Connie draws from Attachment-Based Therapy to explore how early relationship patterns influence current connections and emotional responses. This approach helps people who struggle with intimacy, trust, or repeated relationship conflicts understand the roots of those patterns and develop more secure ways of relating.

She also uses Client-Centered Therapy, which emphasizes empathic listening and respect for each person’s experience. This method supports clients who need space to process emotions, clarify values, and build self-compassion at their own pace.

Connie integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that contribute to anxiety, depression, and stress. CBT offers practical skills for coping and problem solving that can be applied between sessions.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the work together. Connie collaborates with clients to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and she often blends approaches to suit the situation.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for scheduling, continuity during life transitions, and access for those with mobility or caregiving constraints. Licensed professionals can adapt interventions to these formats so clients can engage in meaningful therapeutic work from locations that best fit their daily lives.