Maya Chilese, LMHP, PhD

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About Me

Hey beautiful people—welcome to community. I’m so glad you’re here. My work is rooted in encouraging women to care for their mind, body, and soul, reclaim their power, and yes… help rebuild the matriarchy. It’s an honor to be on this journey with you.

I spent my childhood between Nebraska and the Upper East Coast, with Lincoln as my hometown. Experiencing diverse people, cultures, and communities shaped my deep curiosity about how we learn, grow, and thrive together. That curiosity led me to explore how community is built, what systems uphold it, and where our collective power can truly flourish.

Annoyingly (but truthfully), growth often comes through discomfort—and healing happens best in shared spaces. I value authenticity and collaboration deeply, which made transitioning into therapeutic practice a natural next step. Plot twist: this skill set came in handy during my fourteen years in state government, where I was recruited to lead behavioral and public health transformation initiatives. While that work was impactful, it was starting my own consulting practice and joining #the402collective that brought me back to directly supporting people and community—where my heart has always lived.

My Approach to Therapy

I believe healing is participatory. We all carry luggage, and no one should have to unpack it alone. I trust the wisdom that emerges in therapeutic partnership—especially when humor, comfort, encouragement, and accountability are present.

My approach is strengths-based and liberation-focused. We take our time unlearning harmful patterns, reconnecting with the body, and moving toward embodied well-being. Whether you’re feeling a little glitchy, facing something big, or just need support—I’ve got you.

You’re safe to spill the tea here. You are the expert on your life, so the first question I’ll ask is, “Where are we going together?” From there, we craft a path forward. Cursing and crying are encouraged.

PS: Therapy is relationship-based work, and you deserve to find someone you click with. I’m happy to offer a brief vibe check (phone, FaceTime, or in person) before you invest your energy. Not sure you’re ready? Pop in for a manicure and let’s chat.

What I Can Help With

I work with women and femmes on the journey toward living their best lives, using a range of evidence-based, mind–body–soul approaches. Depending on your needs, we may draw from:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

EMDR

Somatic practices

Parts work (IFS)

My work is trauma-informed and decolonized, recognizing that we are interconnected beings navigating an oppressive culture—not a list of symptoms to be “fixed.”

Whether your concerns feel:

Brain-based (neurodivergence, depression)

Body-based (trauma, anxiety)

Soul-based (identity, relationships, career, grief)

Or all three (because menopause is wild)

…we will sit together in safety, support, and solidarity.

Training & Professional Background

I bring over 25 years of experience in leadership, facilitation, and behavioral health. I’ve earned more certifications than I care to count and have facilitated continuing education nationally. I specialize in women’s care and have advanced training in:

Trauma and attachment

Mood disorders

Neurodivergence

Somatic practices and breathwork

Group facilitation and leadership development

Supporting individuals with othered identities

Education & Licensure:

BA in Sociology – University of Nebraska–Lincoln

MA in Counseling – Doane College (2007)

PhD in Organizational Leadership – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (2020)

Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP #6416)

People I Work With

I serve women and femmes (16+) of all identities, committed to liberation, healing, and elevation.

A Bit More About Me

I love cozy things (ask me about my drawer full of sleep socks) and rebellion—the good trouble kind. I cherish time with my brilliant daughter, am proudly a grandma to her fur baby, and stay endlessly curious through books, documentaries, nature, and the wisdom of the universe.

I’m passionate about social justice, rice bowls, tattoos, and dismantling patriarchy. Outside the office, you’ll find me walking, lifting heavy sh*t, tackling home projects, feeding squirrels, and reminding myself to drink more water.

Always—serving community and expanding our collective capacity for change.

#rebuildthematriarchy