Elizabeth Peters

What is your approach to therapy?

I believe that therapy is most effective when it is a collaborative partnership tailored to your unique story. My style is warm, holistic, and integrative. Because I am trained in both Clinical Social Work and Christian Theology (Masters of Divinity), I view health through a wide lens—considering not just your thoughts and behaviors, but also your values, your community, and the physical way your body carries stress.

My goal is to help you move from a place of "just getting by" to a place where you feel grounded, resilient, and authentically yourself.

In our work together, I draw from a "toolkit" of evidence-based practices to meet you where you are:

• Practical Tools: We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness- Based Cognitive Therapy to identify patterns and build immediate coping skills for anxiety or depression.
• The Mind-Body Connection: I incorporate mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and yoga to help you release trauma and tension that words alone often can't reach.
• Creative Growth: For children and teens, I use art and play therapy techniques, creating a space where they can express complex feelings naturally through art, music and creativity.

What can clients expect from their first session with you?

The first step of reaching out is often the hardest; my primary goal for our first meeting is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and cozy environment where you feel truly heard. Whether we meet in person or virtually, you can expect a space that honors your pace and your privacy.

During our first 50 minutes, we will typically:

• Connect: We’ll spend time getting to know one another. If it’s a session for your child, this might involve an art activity, a game or other play to help them feel at ease.
• Explore: We’ll discuss what brought you in for therapy and what your life looks like right now. You don’t need to have all the answers or a perfect "narrative" ready; we’ll untangle things together.
• Set the Compass: We will identify 1–2 initial goals—whether that’s reducing panic attacks, navigating a difficult relationship, or helping your child feel more confident at school.

You’ll leave that first session with a clearer sense of how we’ll work together and, hopefully, a sense of relief that you no longer have to carry your burden alone.