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Headshot of Sandy Elder, LCSW

Sandy Elder

Therapist(She/Her/Hers)
3 years of experience
  • Virtual
  • Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Panic disorders
  • Individual therapy, Couples therapy, Family therapy

Great to meet you!

With over a decade of experience in the Social Services field, I, Sandy Elder, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the San Francisco Bay Area, I am dedicated to supporting individuals in their healing process. My practice focuses on creating a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work toward personal growth. Through my work at El Camino Hospital; I have specialties in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.

My approach to therapy

I have worked with various different populations including mood disorders, dual diagnosis, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and post traumatic stress disorders,. LGBTQUIA + populations. I believe in empowering clients to be able to identify their own strengths within. I am passionate about supporting through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy; both are widely used evidence-based treatment options that help in restructuring thinking.

Many of the clients I work with struggle with isolation, lack of energy, fatigue, stress, and rumination. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Understanding the vicious cycles of mood disorders helps us in understanding how our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors are all interconnected. Together we can work towards restructuring, reframing, and growth.

What you can expect from me

Our counseling approach is client-centered, focusing on your individual needs, goals, and preferences. We believe in creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. Your well-being is my top priority. In our first session you can expect us to discuss what has brought you to therapy in the first place and how I can best support your needs. We will complete the initial intake paperwork and discuses a schedule moving forward. I look forward to hearing from you!

About me

  • I identify as
    Caucasian, Cisgender Woman
  • My style is
    Open Minded, Warm, Solution Oriented

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    3 years of experience
  • Training
    BA (Bachelor of Arts) at Northern Arizona University, Masters in Social Work at Simmons College
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (California)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Panic disorders
  • More specialties
    Maternal mental health, Relationship issues, Women's issues, Trauma, PTSD, Transgender issues
  • Therapy methods
    Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Couples Therapy, Strength-Based, Behavioral Activation (BA), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Cognitive Behavioral Family Therapy, Humanistic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy, Couples therapy, Family therapy
  • Ages served
    Seniors, Adults, Adolescents
  • Languages
    English