Elsa is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in School Counseling from State University of New York at Albany. Elsa has more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field; She uses evidence- based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Play Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. She works with children, adolescents, couples, and families, addressing variety of issues including conflict resolution, anger management, mood disorders, grief, child-parent conflict, ADHD, trauma, and educational issues. She believes that people want to feel heard, respected, and cared for. By acknowledging people’s feelings and experiences, and showing genuine, positive, unconditional regard, Elsa presents an ambiance of safety that allows clients to develop trust and break down their defenses. Elsa’s interest in counseling began with a gratitude for school counselors who helped her adjust to a new country and culture as an immigrant. She loves seeing people change their lives, learn to believe in themselves, and realize that their diagnosis, problems, and issues do not define them. Elsa enjoys working with diverse clientele and utilizing her primary language skills of Spanish and Portuguese.