Change is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t make it easy. Whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a new city, or ending a relationship, transitions often come with a …
The Ellie Blog
Mental health tips and insights
Childhood OCD Explained: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment That Can Help
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as a quirk or preference for neatness, but it’s far more complex, especially in children. In fact, OCD in children can be …
How to Support a Loved One Through Their Trauma Recovery
Supporting someone through trauma recovery can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of what they need or how to help. While you can’t “fix” their pain, your empathy, …
Healing with Humor: The Therapeutic Power of Laughter
How many therapists does it take to change a light bulb? Just one, but the light bulb really has to want to change. Why Humor Matters in Therapy Whether you laughed at …
Embracing Empowerment for Therapists: Beyond Martyrdom to Fulfillment
Therapists often enter the field with a mission to make a meaningful impact in our clients' lives. However, somewhere along the road, many find themselves caught in a cycle of …
Understanding Common Mental Health Therapist Licenses: A Practical Guide to LPC, LMFT, LCSW, and More
I know firsthand that searching for the right therapist can feel like a daunting process. Years ago, I was looking for my own therapist for the first time, and during my search, I …
Trauma Anniversaries: How to Recognize, Cope, and Support Loved Ones
When you hear the word anniversary, your mind might go to roses, chocolates, or fancy dinners. But not all anniversaries are joyful. Trauma anniversaries mark the time—whether a …
Empowering the Men You Care About to Start Therapy
A man’s choice to consider therapy carries so much weight—a decision often shaped by societal expectations, cultural background, and internalized beliefs. Reflecting on this topic …
How to Set Boundaries in a Relationship
If you’re new to setting boundaries, the act of putting up walls might sound like the opposite of a healthy, thriving relationship. After all, isn’t the goal of intimacy to become …
Borderline Personality Disorder 101: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions—and one of the most stigmatized. But behind the label is a real person who often …
Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Strategies for Therapists
I recently facilitated a clinical supervision group (it’s like a consultation group for new therapists) where we were discussing a case where the client seemed to have some …
Helping Children Overcome Anxiety About Getting Sick
While it’s natural for kids to have concerns about germs or illness from time to time, when these fears become excessive, persistent, or start interfering with daily life, it may …
