Ellie Cates

I strive to create an accepting and supportive space in sessions for you to feel truly seen and heard, and utilize a person-centered approach in accompanying you on this journey. I bring compassion, warmth, and unconditional positive regard to therapy sessions and I believe that healing can happen through supported exploration, and compassionate connection to trusting and caring humans. It is important to me that we incorporate approaches which honor your unique needs, and that we do so in an affirming and gentle manner. I hope that this can be an experience in which you feel supported, celebrated, and cared for.

I work with clients on a diverse range of subjects, such as: body image, disordered eating, existential struggles, climate grief, self-esteem/self-compassion, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, autism, ADHD, trauma, gender/sexuality, and life changes. I also work with individuals in addressing burnout relating to life/work as well as activism and advocacy. I often incorporate a systemic framework in acknowledging the systems which impact mental health. I am a neurodiversity-affirming counselor and welcome all individuals to this space.

I offer an integrative approach in tailoring our sessions to meet your therapeutic needs, which may shift as we move through this journey. I utilize an emotion-focused approach and incorporate elements of acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion-focused therapy, as well as solution-focused and mindfulness-based approaches amongst others.

Additional Training:
I have completed a certificate program in eating disorder counseling through Lewis and Clark. I also recently completed a climate psychology certificate program through the California Institute of Integral Studies.

*I am currently working towards EMDR training and certification and am able to provide this therapeutic modality starting in June 2025*