Elise James, LCSW

Twenty years ago, I started my career in mental health with a simple goal: helping people find inner peace and emotional stability in their everyday lives. What I didn’t expect was how much my own life experiences would deepen my understanding of the challenges my clients face.

My career has taken me through schools, outpatient clinics, hospitals and community organizations, always working with children and families. I specialize in trauma, domestic violence, infant mental health and acute and chronic medical illnesses. I also focus extensively on grief and loss, as well as the unique challenges that caregivers face when supporting loved ones through difficult times.

What gives my work additional depth is my personal experience as the mother of a child born with significant medical needs.

Navigating the complexities of being a medical parent has given me firsthand understanding of the emotional toll that comes with caring for a medically fragile loved one. This experience has fueled my desire to support other families walking this challenging path.

My approach centers on empathy and sensitivity to your life circumstances, combined with practical coping skills that you can actually use in your daily life. I use evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Intervention. I also believe in honoring your spiritual beliefs as part of the healing process, because I know that wellness looks different for everyone.

Throughout our work together, I’ll help you build the tools you need to address the challenges you’re facing while supporting your journey toward becoming who you want to be. My personality consistently reflects compassion and dedication because I genuinely love helping people and that shows up in every interaction we have.