For Ellen, being a social worker means joining someone in the realities of their environment, family systems, culture, and circumstances and honestly identifying barriers and possibilities. Years of travel, moves throughout the country, volunteerism, and clinical work in the non-profit sector have enriched Ellen’s appreciation for diversity as well as for the emotional needs that unite us all.  Ellen has witnessed many individuals grapple with the cliché “time heals all wounds,” which gives the misleading impression that we naturally “grow out of” hurt, disappointments, and insecurities.  This is not often the case.  The presence or absence of safety, support, and necessary resources—plus neurobiology—all impact how we recover from grief, fear, and loss. Ellen enjoys and honors the tough work of self-exploration and will hold onto hope when yours may be wavering. Ellen maintains a trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective, which means she will always validate that your pain is meaningful and that you are worthy and capable.

Ellen is a school counselor, mom to a curly-headed daughter and her canine sidekick, a proud Auntie, and an aspiring cake artist.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Supervisor (#55393)

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology – University of Texas at Dallas
Master of Science in Social Work – University of Texas at Arlington
EMDR Certified Therapist (10/1/2016)

Areas of Focus:

• Recovery from childhood, family, dating, or partner violence

• Support for primary and secondary survivors of sexual violence

• Trauma-related symptoms (anxiety/panic, fear, sleep disruptions, intrusive memories, flashbacks, difficulty trusting self and others, etc.)

• Safety, boundaries, and effective communication in relationships

• Building healthy and helpful strategies for coping and wellness

• Combatting the overly busy brain and critical self-talk

• Navigating the teen years

• Gender and sexual identity; LGBTQ+ Ally