“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis

I love this quote because I believe that it’s always the right time to start therapy. It’s all too easy to get caught up in trying to “fix things” or “make up for” things that have already happened. The past is important because it teaches us, but when we stay focused on “fixing” our pasts, it becomes difficult to find hope for the future. Our fears, anxieties, guilt, shame, and hurts can sometimes be so loud that those are the only parts of ourselves we can focus on. That’s where I would like to come alongside and help!

I believe that everyone is made of different valuable parts that can be explored, organized, and integrated into a beautifully whole self, regardless of when you are beginning your therapeutic journey. Whether you’re starting a new chapter in your life, going through a difficult transition, feeling like everything is falling apart, or simply trying to be proactive about mental, emotional, and spiritual health, now is the perfect time to start – exactly where you are – and change the ending!

As for my background, I am a born and raised San Diegan, and a firm believer in the healing powers of the great outdoors and a good cup of tea. As the eldest of seven children, a child, and family-focused therapist for over three years, and a lover of Attachment Theory, I believe that connections with loved ones are sacred and that tending to those connections is one of the best forms of self-care there is! I believe a curious state of mind is always the best place to be, especially when working with clients, and I love practicing mindfulness in sessions.

My own battles with anxiety, self-worth, doubt, and shame during my teens and early twenties have given me a unique perspective of what it means to learn from the past while focusing on the future and healing in the present. Through extensive personal and clinical work, I have learned that it’s never too late (or too early) to work on yourself to achieve a sense of wholeness and stability.

Whether my clients are children, teens, parents, or individuals, I work with them to create a space that feels warm and safe to explore and organize the parts of themselves that are hard to look at or understand. I enjoy using a combination of Attachment Theory, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in session to support my clients on their journey toward wholeness. For those seeking a faith-based approach, as a born-again Christian, I love being able to support my clients as they explore how their spirituality interacts with and informs who they are and who they wish to become. I look forward to meeting you where you are and working with you to create a life and a future you are proud of.

Specializes in: Children and families navigating developmental disorders, parents of children and teens, children ages 2-19, and faith-based counseling.

Education:

MS, Marriage and Family Therapy – Bethel Seminary San Diego

BS, Psychology – San Diego Christian College

Elise sees clients in both the University Heights and La Mesa locations.