Elaine, APCC

I used to struggle with the exact same pressure, overwhelm, and exhaustion you or your child might be feeling right now. Growing up in San Diego, my natural desire to help others turned into an intense pressure to please everyone; parents, teachers, friends, and society. I built a version of myself designed entirely to meet what everyone else expected of me. Between navigating high expectations, hiding my own needs just to fit in, and processing life as a neurodivergent individual, I ended up in an exhausting cycle of anxiety, depression, complex trauma (CPTSD), and constant burnout.

That’s until I embarked on my own therapy journey and pursued advanced clinical training, graduating with my Master’s in Counseling from SDSU and expanding my clinical work at UMass Global. Through this process, I realized that the coping mechanisms and masks I developed were just protective strategies designed to survive difficult environments and overwhelming expectations. I learned how to safely process my emotions, honor those protective parts, and heal the root causes of my stress and trauma.

Now, I no longer carry the heavy weight of living for everyone else. I am deeply connected to my authentic self, navigate life’s challenges with confidence, and live a grounded, fulfilling life free from constant anxiety and the need to people-please.

I’m committed to helping children, teens, and young adults discover that exact same relief, confidence, and self-acceptance. I do this by creating a safe, compassionate space where kids and teens can drop the pressure and just be themselves. Blending trauma-informed, evidence-based approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we work together to manage anxiety, process tough life changes, build emotional regulation, and strengthen self-esteem so your child can move forward with confidence and a little more pep in their step.

I am so honored to have supported so many children, adolescents, and young adults in overcoming anxiety, healing from trauma, and discovering their true strengths, and I invite you to take the next step toward a happier, more resilient life for your child or teen.

Session Formats & Availability

To support busy school, activity, and family schedules, I offer flexible evening and weekend appointments:

    •    In-Person Therapy: At our Chula Vista office for kids, teens, and families across South Bay San Diego and Eastlake.

    •    Online Therapy (Telehealth): Convenient virtual sessions across California.