About Tender Edge

“Tender” reflects the heart of the therapeutic relationship: care, trust, and the slow, safe 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 that forms in the face of injustice. Feelings that are often misunderstood, but are signals rooted in protection and dignity. Edge also represents the cusp of experience - the uncomfortable place where real growth happens.

Tender Edge Therapy honors the entirety of your emotional experience, holding it carefully enough for something new to emerge.

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About Elise

My style is warm, engaged, honest, and relational. I bring encouragement and humor into my work with clients. I’m no blank slate.

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, and creating it. I sing and am learning ukulele. Uncontrollably laughing with friends is one of my happiest places. I also love climbing, hiking, 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 to you during Telehealth sessions.

Black cat lying on a wooden floor, looking off to the side.
Orange tabby cat lying on its back on a beige couch, looking upside down at the camera, with one paw extended upward.

Winnie

Boz

Credentials & Education

  • MFT-C, 2021

  • Advanced EFT training: ICEEFT Externship & Core Skills

  • Memberships: AAMFT; ICEEFT; AEDP Institute

  • MA, Couple and 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.