Get to Know Our Team: Jona Koplow – Adult Therapist

My Background & Personal Story 

Becoming a therapist has been a journey of discovery, not a direct path. Growing up in an insular community sparked my curiosity about people, cultures, and privilege, leading me to various jobs, volunteer work, and travel, where I interacted with people from all walks of life. These experiences have given me a more colorful worldview and a better understanding of our shared humanity and interconnectedness.  

Before diving into graduate school and life as a therapist, I worked as an outreach worker in Chicago, connecting with people experiencing homelessness. There I witnessed incredible resilience and the power of empowering people to be experts on their own lives. Since obtaining my graduate degree and after a number of years working in community mental health, I am grateful to join the Serengeti Wellness team and continue this work I have come to love! 

My Approach to Therapy 

Creating a safe and collaborative space is central to my therapeutic approach. I strive to show up as my authentic self, hoping clients will feel comfortable to do the same. I enjoy supporting and challenging people to build greater self-compassion while confronting all of their complexities. I have found that this process not only helps us as individuals but it also has a ripple effect on how 

we treat those around us and our world. My hope is that through this process we can learn to navigate life’s inevitable waves with a little less inner turbulence. 

Outside of Therapy 

Cooking and nature are my anchors outside of work. The tactile act of creating and nourishing, whether it’s a meal for family and friends or a plant or seedling, brings me a sense of calm and accomplishment. I find a meditative rhythm in the repetitive nature of these activities, a welcome contrast to the dynamic of my everyday life. As a plant enthusiast, I find joy in nurturing my own indoor jungle and witnessing the vibrant cycles of nature, especially the hopeful bloom of spring. A quote in our office reminds me, ‘Nothing in nature blooms all year. Be patient with yourself,’ a sentiment I strive to embody both in and out of the therapy room. 

More About Me 

When I’m not in the therapy room or tending to my growing indoor jungle, you might find me exploring new cuisines. If I could only eat one cuisine for the rest of my life, it would be a tough call, but Asian food would be a strong contender. From sushi to pad thai, pho to paneer, I’m in! My imagination also takes me on adventures. If I could have any superpower, it would be teleportation. With family and friends scattered across the globe, I’d love to be able to visit them in an instant, or just pop over to explore a new corner of the world. And while I generally

consider myself a risk-averse person, I’ve had my share of adventurous moments. While studying abroad in South Africa, I found myself skydiving and shark cage diving – experiences that definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone and provided some unforgettable stories (and photos!). 

Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit more about me! If you’re interested in working together feel free to reach out via email at Jona@serengetiwellness.com or book a consultation or session through our website.