Ilana Simkol, MSW, LCSW
she/her
Hi, I’m Ilana! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who helps those struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, and difficult life transitions. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and individualized, drawing from CBT, DBT, ACT, and strength-based techniques. Although these are my treatment approaches, I believe the relationship between therapist and client can be very healing. I strive to offer a warm, supportive, nonjudgemental space to explore your experiences and build meaningful coping skills.
schedule a discovery call
populations
children, adolescents, teens, college students, & adults
specialties
Eating Disorders
Anxiety Disorders
Highly Sensitive Person
Depressive Disorders
locations
In-person at gainesville office
Virtually in VA
Use your sensitivity as your superpower.
Ilana believes that a strong therapeutic connection is the foundation for meaningful change. With compassion and a nonjudgmental lens, she meets clients exactly where they are, exploring the function of behaviors rather than labeling them as “good” or “bad.” Ilana is aligned with the Health at Every Size (HAES) approach, honoring body diversity and supporting clients in developing a respectful, empowered relationship with their bodies—free from shame. She views sensitivity not as a flaw, but as a unique strength—a kind of superpower that, when understood, can lead to deep insight and resilience. Her approach creates a safe and inclusive space where clients feel seen, supported, and free to grow.
Bubbly, curious, and a little silly.
I bring a bubbly, down-to-earth energy into everything I do—whether I’m in the therapy room, exploring a new country, or laughing at my own bad dad jokes. I believe in letting the inner child out, and I find joy in the silly, the strange, and the deeply human—whether it’s quoting anime, watching horror movies, or just being fully present. I’m a lifelong learner and traveler, always curious about how people live, connect, and make meaning across cultures. Outside of work, you’ll probably find me out in nature, loving on any animal I meet (especially cats—my healthy obsession!), or simply appreciating the small joys of life. I aim to show up as my full, authentic self so others feel safe to do the same.
We'd be a good fit if...
- You need weekday evening and Saturday availability
- You want a warm and supportive therapist who can also gently challenge you when it helps you grow.
- You just want to feel seen, heard, and like your voice truly matters.
- You're looking to navigate body image concerns and the impact of diet culture.
schedule a discovery call
Professional Bio
Ilana Simkol, MSW, LCSW, is a therapist at Clarity Counseling VA in the Gainesville location and virtually in Virginia. Ilana received her Bachelors of Science in Community Health from George Mason University and her Masters of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ilana has been working in the eating disorder field since 2019 across various levels of care, including residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient settings. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and individualized, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and strength-based techniques. Ilana uses trauma-informed, Health At Every Size® perspective and believes in an all-foods-fit philosophy. Her style is warm and supportive, yet is not afraid to gently challenge you when needed to encourage growth. Ilana believes that healing is possible and is ready to support you on your journey.
