Carrie Elste

Growing up neurodivergent, I knew my life purpose was to learn to navigate a world that wasn't meant for me and to help others do the same. As a therapist and former teacher and crisis responder, I understand what it takes to navigate toxic stress in a world that wasn't built for your brain or nervous system. I had a period as a young adult in which I was disabled by depression and had to reshape my entire life trajectory. I had a therapist that truly saw me - it changed my entire life trajectory. Today, that same passion drives my clinical work. You are not broken, and your adaptations make complete sense given what you’ve been through.

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I earned a BA in Psychology/Human Services, went on for an MSW and have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2017. I have extensive experience as a school clinician, respite business owner, and non-profit director. I opened my therapy practice in 2019. ​ My practice focuses on supporting neurodivergent and gifted kids and adults, women, LGBTQ+/ENBY/Trans*, and BIPOC folks facing burnout, trauma, grief and major life pivots. Whether you are processing trauma, navigating divorce, parenting, fscing loss, health changes, or untangling the burnout of masking or people-pleasing, our work centers on helping you drop the mask, establish meaningful boundaries, and step into grounded self-worth. Your future self is waiting! In our sessions, you can expect warm, down-to-earth collaboration rooted in real-world strategies. When you’re ready to prioritize your own healing, I invite you to connect with me. Outside of being a therapist, I am a proud single momma to a neurospicy kiddo and a pittie. I enjoy crafting, travel, making art, yoga, dancing, and the outdoors.

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If you spend your days holding everything together for everyone else, constantly adapting to fit neurotypical or rigid expectations, you might feel exhausted from simply "performing" your life. Whether you are navigating a major transition, untangling people-pleasing, or finally learning how to unmask, you don’t have to do it alone. Therapy with me isn't about fixing who you are, it’s about stripping away survival strategies that no longer serve you and reclaiming YOUR authentic self- your genuine voice, boundaries, and joy. I believe all parts of you are valid. Let's work together to acknowledge what has been hard, what is here now, step out of what is holding you back & into your authentic self. Your Future Self is waiting! Feel free to text me to get started.

You will leave with a felt sense of your brain/body connection, learn how your nervous system impacts the choices you make and the patterns you experience. I will provide trauma therapy, grounded clarity, research based strategies, and coaching to support your self acceptance, growth and the changes you want to make. My intent is that you leave our sessions with a greater understanding of yourself, a sense of self compassion, and actionable steps to put into play to create Your Future Self.