I'm Dr. Elaine Lavin, licensed clinical psychologist. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds to break free from stuck patterns that impede their lives. I specialize in trauma — especially sexual trauma — depression, identity, life transitions, aging, and relationship difficulties. I approach themes such as trust, anger, shame, self-esteem, and intimacy with care and compassion.
My approach aims to help identify and change stuck patterns that interfere with living according to your values. Through my own therapy, I experienced the power of Gloria Steinem's invocation, "The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off." In this frame, I strive to create a safe environment for you to take a leap and explore the parts of yourself that you've pushed away. Our therapeutic work may center around exploring connections between childhood, trauma, societal structures, and your current life challenges. I focus on using the strengths that you already have, combined with increased clarity, empowerment, problem-solving, and some new coping skills.
Initial sessions focus on getting to know you and your story. From there we'll discuss your goals for therapy, and what types of therapy will get you there. Therapy is most successful when it is collaborative! I take a warm and empathic stance while being an active and authentic participant. This includes honoring where you came from, while gently challenging you to become the person you want to be.
