Virginia Dwyer-Aoyama, a licensed clinical social worker, joined the VOICES staff in October 2021. She has over 30 years of experience providing individual, family and group therapy. Her particular focus includes loss and bereavement, trauma, substance abuse and addiction, and individual and family developmental issues. She has worked with various social service agencies over the years providing counselling services and community workshops. For the past 10 years, Virginia developed and organized a weekly reading program for children with special needs and volunteered in a local soup kitchen and food pantry. Virginia has always been passionate about meeting people’s concrete needs for housing, education, and nutrition.

Virginia is a Chicago native and enjoys hiking, walking along the beach, and lively conversation.