Elizabeth Shantharaj

I am an LPC with experience in private practice, church counseling, and a child placing agency. I have a Master of Arts in Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art with a minor in Psychology. In my time as a therapist, I have worked with people of all ages in a variety of settings. My varied experience has grown my therapy skills but more importantly it has taught me to be present with clients and trust both the process of therapy and the ability in each and every person to reach deeper levels of healing.

In the therapy world, a big focus is often on the client learning to trust the therapist and building a strong therapeutic relationship. While I agree this is an essential catalyst for growth, I also believe it is equally important for the client to learn to trust themselves. I focus on empowering my clients to understand how their past experiences have impacted their current relationships, with self and others, and how they can change these patterns.

I am a trained EMDR therapist and I utilize this evidence-based treatment to help my clients heal from emotional distress caused by trauma and adverse life experiences. I also specialize in Client Centered Therapy, Attachment Therapy, The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My clients and I collaborate on which approach is best for them and their goals.

This work includes examining past experiences to make sense of current maladaptive patterns, practicing mindfulness, learning new skills, and examining client values and goals for future relationships. My clients and I spend time identifying internal and external barriers to their goals as well as increasing insight. My goal is for my clients to feel empowered and able to view themselves with self-compassion and trust they have the capacity for change.