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Elana Story, LCSW
Positive Transformations Psychotherapy
My Approach
I believe transformation can happen anytime, and that self-exploration and self-care are important parts of being able to change the world.
I believe you don't have to be “sick” to get better-- that we can all deepen and improve our relationships with ourselves and with one another.
As I focus on you, I value deep, honest communication. (I'm not your traditional “blank slate” therapist. I am more effusive.) I also model healthy boundaries and open two-way communication.
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I am genuinely curious about your whole self as I listen deeply to the depth and breadth of your emotions and your story.
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I'll gently challenge you to move forward and out of being "stuck" or unhelpful holding patterns. My therapy style is informed by a social justice framework and a social work background as well as grounded experience, which I balance with irreverence and humor.
About me
I love working with activists, artists, queer and trans folks, dreamers, spiritual seekers, helping professionals, and parents/parents to be. I have particular expertise in working with LGBTQ++ parents and those on the queer path to parenthood so to speak.
I use various approaches including somatic work (mindful attention to the body and nervous system), relational/ depth psychotherapy as well as Lifespan Integration (a tool for processing past stressful experiences).
Areas in which I'm experienced include:
LGBTQ issues, including coming out and LGBTQ children/teens
Anxiety
Secondary trauma and burnout prevention
Trauma, including sexual trauma, rape and incest
Spirituality and religion
Fertility and pregnancy, including struggles with infertility
Parenting and family stressors
Chronic illness/disabilities
Thank you for your interest in working with me.
I currently have availability for either virtual or in person sessions in my office
near uptown Oakland and Pill Hill.
Email or call me for more information:
510-671-1297 elana.story.lcsw@gmail.com