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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.

Let's get started

My Approach to Therapy

I use a variety of modalities to help you heal from trauma:

  • which uses the body as a tool for healing relational trauma  and attachment wounds, because trauma lives in your body

  • (IFS)-informed approaches. I’ve received training in IFS foundations for the Queer and Trans community

  • which is a gentle and profoundly effective somatic approach for working with past stressful experiences or traumas

  • informed by the work of the Icarus Project and training through Institute for the Development of Human Arts (IDHA), a decolonizing and depathologizing psychiatric model that looks at people’s experiences in the context of culture, community, and spiritual beliefs

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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.

What We Can Do Together

  • Learn how to thrive in a society that pushes you to the margins

  • Process trauma so it stops running your life

  • Form a strong foundation of trust to help you find lasting inner peace

  • Create boundaries that protect your peace

  • Find meaning in your suffering and grow from it, not just survive it

  • Navigate complex family and community dynamics

  • Explore and overcome issues around chronic illness and disability

  • Address bipolar spectrum, anxiety, and depression

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Therapy’s Ripple Effect

Therapy is an investment in your individual wellness, yes, but I believe healing happens in relationship, and that the work we do together ripples outward into your family, your community, and the wider world

Fees & Session Type

Typically, I meet with clients weekly in person. Occasionally this will shift to another arrangement, depending on the client’s clinical and financial needs. For family groups, this may differ on a case by case basis.

Individual sessions: $225 for 50 minutes
Groups and families: (2-3 people): $250 for 55 minutes; $300 for 75-80 minutes

Insurance

I accept Alameda Alliance Medi-Cal and can offer superbills (itemized receipts) to support reimbursement if your plan will reimburse you for out-of-network benefits.

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    "We literally call Elana the GOAT at home. We joke that she’s “The Oracle” to consult when I need to process something. She has an incredible ability to help me clarify and articulate what I’m experiencing, notice my patterns over time, and offer new tools and techniques that are actually helpful. She’s thoughtful, attentive, and always learning — and it shows in every session."

    - Happy Client

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    "One of my favorite things about working with Elana is how much we laugh in our sessions. She’s a real person, and she’s genuinely funny. Even when we’re talking about difficult topics, there’s warmth and humanity that makes everything feel more manageable. Elana listens deeply, notices patterns over time, and consistently helps me articulate how I make meaning of my experiences. Her thoughtful questions help me move forward and grow. She’s also always learning, bringing in new tools and techniques that I legitimately use and apply outside of our sessions. Her approach feels thoughtful, personalized, and grounded in genuine care."

    - Happy Client

Ready to Start?

THIS IS A REALLY HARD TIME TO BE YOU IN THE WORLD. YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALONE.

Email me or fill out the form below. Tell me what you're carrying or what you need. I respond personally to every message. We'll find a time to talk, see if we're a good fit, and go from there.
You deserve a space where all of you belongs.

Get real with me