Elisha-Rio P. Apilado, LCPC, ATR

Elisha-Rio, a clinical art therapist, guides individuals through their identity crises with confidence, helping them shed the weight of external expectations and embrace authenticity. Having earned dual master’s degrees in counseling and art therapy from Adler University in Chicago, Elisha-Rio meets clients where they are, offering encouragement as they discover and build upon their strengths. Clients seek her out because they’re tired of holding back in relationships and yearn for empowerment in shaping a life that truly reflects their own essence. Life can be challenging, especially when we grapple with societal pressures and the responsibilities of conforming to others’ expectations while trying to maintain genuine connections with friends and family.

With her art therapy background, Elisha-Rio specializes in using art as a means of expression when words fall short. She encourages clients to tap into their creative and playful sides, fostering a deeper connection to their identity. Through art, people can convey their innermost thoughts and emotions, driving positive change in their lives and relationships without necessarily verbalizing it.

Outside of her work with clients and advocacy for culturally informed mental health, Elisha-Rio enjoys spending time in nature, perfecting dance moves in the studio, and embarking on “short & sweet” trips to check off her art bucket list—one that includes visiting every city’s art museum at least once.

Office location: N/A - Telehealth

Areas of Practice:

• Anxiety
• Body Positivity
• Cancer
• Caregivers
• Coping Skills
• Cultural Identity Issues
• Depression
• Filipino/a/x Cultural Issues/Identity
• Grief
• Life Coaching
• Life Transitions
• Peer Relationships
• Racial Identity
• Relationship Issues
• School Issues
• Self Esteem
• Stress
• Suicidal Ideation
• Women's Issues
• Mental Health
• Mood Disorders
• Sexuality
• LGBTQ+

LanguageSpoken: English

Insurance Accepted:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• CIGNA
• Aetna
• United Healthcare
• United Medical Resources (UMR)
• Medicare