Meet Elise, MFTC
Your Couples, Relationship and Attachment Therapist
Grounded in evidence-based models of EFT and AEDP, my approach with clients is:
Relational and attuned
We notice what happens between us and use it
to explore how you might move in other relationships, too.
Emotionally focused
We pay attention to the feelings underneath the story; they have an important role in finding relief, clarity, and connection.
Experiential and embodied
We build emotional safety and security, based on your human neurobiological wiring
for social bonds.
Attachment-informed
Instead of only talking about change, we slow things down enough for new experiences to actually land in your body.
About Tender Edge Therapy
“Tender” reflects the heart of the therapeutic relationship: care, trust, and a slow, gentle unfolding of what’s been held inside. And, it speaks to the utter vulnerability of being human.
“Edge” refers, in part, to our sharper experiences, like the heat of anger, or the charge against injustice. Feelings that are often misunderstood, but are signals seeking protection and dignity. Edge also represents the cusp of experience: the uncomfortable place where real growth happens.
For couples and individuals, therapy at Tender Edge honors the whole spectrum of your emotional experience, and holds it carefully enough for something new to emerge.
More About Me And My Approach
My style is warm, engaged, honest, and relational. I bring encouragement and humor into my work with clients. I’m no blank slate. I’ll ponder alongside you, make genuine effort to get where you’re coming from, and I don’t avoid confronting.
My own healing deepened when I learned how attachment shaped my emotional world, and I’m passionate about helping others access that same transformation. I believe that doing my own therapy is essential to this work, and I’m committed to ongoing personal growth.
I became a therapist after a first career in climate and environmental advocacy. Social justice remains central to my values, and I see empathy and healthy relationship as core ingredients of meaningful change at all levels.
Outside the therapy room, I’m big on music - listening deeply, being moved (including to dance!) and creating it. I sing and am learning ukulele. Uncontrollably laughing with friends is one of my happiest places. I also love walks & hikes, climbing, games, and cozying up with a book or show with my two sweet cats, Winnie and Boz. They might occasionally pop in to say Hello during Telehealth sessions.
Winnie
Boz
Specializing in
Life transitions
Perfectionism
Identity issues
Intimacy
Self-esteem
Trauma
Relationship conflict
Codependency
Anxiety
Grief and Loss
Emotional regulation
Climate/eco-anxiety & Grief
Credentials & Education
MFTC, 2021: Colorado License # MFTC.0014268
Supervised by Kat Austin, Colorado License # MFT.0001085
Advanced training:
ICEEFT Externship: Immersive broad training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (24+ hours)
ICEEFT Core Skills: Advanced, in-depth instruction and live experiential practice in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (48 hours)
AEDP Immersion - Level 1 Therapist: Foundational, experiential training in the AEDP model theory and practice (40 hours)
Memberships: AAMFT; ICEEFT; AEDP Institute
MA, Couple & Family Therapy, University of Colorado Denver
Internship with Evergreen Psychotherapy Center Attachment Treatment and Training Program, under Dr. Terry Levy
BS, Environmental Science, UCLA
Get in touch
Send me a note and I’ll get back to you within two business days.
If you’re ready to schedule a session or free 20 minute consultation, click here to book directly.
elise@tenderedgetherapy.com
(720) 432-1541