Meet Ellen
About Me
I grew up in Portland, Oregon and later lived in various parts of Colorado before moving back to the West Coast, settling in the Bay Area. I have many interests and passions outside of the therapy room, including: music, hiking, running, biking, yoga, animals, cooking/baking, and various forms of arts and crafts. I am often balancing my drive to be active and explore, with my appreciation for the serenity of stillness. Similarly, I find myself most engaged in life when striking a balance between facing challenges and feeling comforted. Those who know me well describe me as gentle, intuitive, practical, and compassionate.
My Background and Experience
I am drawn to my work as a therapist as it calls me to be constantly curious about what it means to be alive, present, and thriving. In my undergraduate degree, I studied philosophy and psychology, humbled by the age-old question of “what does it mean to lead the good life?” I continue to hold this question as a central tenant in my life and work, considering this from a practical, ethical, and deeply personal perspective.
My interests and studies led me to become a professional bodyworker (Licensed Massage Therapist and Certified Personal Trainer), later arriving at my current practice as a Somatic Therapist. I am influenced by humanistic, relational, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and trauma-informed approaches.
From personal experience, I believe in the power of looking inward and finding ways to feel “at home” in your body as well as feeling “at home” in the world. My relationships with family, friends, and spouse serve as a primary source of inspiration for me to continually cultivate personal growth as a way to deepen connection and intimacy with others.
Our Work Together
I am currently accepting new clients and referrals.