Hi, I’m Elena.

I care about challenging the stigma around therapy and the belief that it exists only for those in crisis. I believe therapy can be a proactive, kind way to care for yourself.

I value authenticity and bring a real, grounded presence into the room. I know that mental health care hasn’t always felt safe or helpful for everyone—there are valid reasons people hesitate to reach out, and unfortunately, not every experience with a clinician is a good one. My goal is to offer a space that feels human, supportive, and free of judgment. We can all use a source of ongoing support, especially in the more difficult seasons. Often seeing through a narrative lens,  I believe we all make sense of our lives through the stories we tell—about who we are, what we’ve been through, and what’s possible for us. Sometimes those stories can become limiting, painful, or shaped by experiences that weren’t fully in our control.

Since nothing exists in a vacuum, I naturally take a very systemic approach to my work—considering context and a holistic view. Whether you’re seeking individual support or working through challenges as a couple, therapy is a way of finding hope, connection, and practical tools for a more full life.

Clinical Experience

I have worked directly with clients in a variety of settings, including university-based community health as well as private practice. Specific areas of clinical experience include working with couples, premarital issues, children, process groups, life transitions, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and navigating identity and life direction.

Clinical Specialties

I am trained in supporting individuals, couples, and families through a range of challenges. I have a specialization in play therapy and a strong foundation in child development, which informs my work with adult clients of all ages. I particularly enjoy working with couples to strengthen connection, navigate conflict, and build healthier patterns of communication. I also have special interest in working with painful religious experiences, mood disorders, sexual trauma, family dysfunction, grief, and relationship issues.

Education & Special Training

Master of Marriage and Family Therapy, Lipscomb University (Graduation, August 2025)

Bachelor of Science in Communications,  Southeast Missouri State University, 2012

Advanced Training in Play Therapy

Internship Clinicals at Nashville Psych, LLC and  Lipscomb Family Therapy Center

Gottman Method Level 1 Trained

Prepare/Enrich Certified Facilitator

Completed Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Training

Competed Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Training

Relational Psychodynamic Therapy Training, Program Coordinator