Hi there! I am Dr. Elyssa Helfer, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and Havening Practitioner. I strive to create a shame and judgement-free environment, encouraging self growth and more importantly, vulnerability. I believe that our work together is sacred and deeply embedded in respect, connection, and trust. I recognize that in beginning our work together, I will be a stranger to you and that I must earn the trust and respect that is vital in a healthy therapeutic relationship. This is why I work at the pace of my clients, pushing when I feel is appropriate but also being mindful of where you are at. I work to create a space where empathy and care are unconditional, allowing for the ideal environment to truly heal. While I have extensive knowledge and education in the mental health field, I believe my greatest tool is my intuition. I practice from a perspective that my clients are the experts in their own lives and I am simply a guide to uncover the blind spots that may be out of sight.
I am happy to work with a number of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, work stress, and more. However, my primary area of expertise is working with issues related to sexuality. Sexual expression, sexuality, and gender identity are key factors in the well-being of any individual. We are living in a world where we are not encouraged to explore our sexuality and innermost desires, and I want to change that. We are often stunted and shamed by the societal expectation that sex and love can only exist in one form, that being monogamous vanilla relationships. My life’s passion is to break that mold. Whether exploring Kink/BDSM, Swing Lifestyles, Consensual Non-Monogamy, and more, I am here to help you discover your true identity and to help that blossom in a safe, affirming, and empowering way. I am LGBTQIA+ affirmative and welcome all individuals on the spectrum of genders and expressions of sexuality.
I have found that integrating Havening into my practice allows for work to move beyond talk therapy and incorporate a more profound sense of healing. For those who have noticed a block that stands in the way of the healing you are seeking, Havening may be the right fit for you. Please contact me if you are interested in learning more!