Elizabeth Carpenter Argila M.A., J.D.

I am a parent myself and have always had a particular interest in child development, behavior, and psychology. I incorporate the latest knowledge from these fields and translate them into practical ways parents and families can improve their relationships. I see children, adolescents, and families as well as parental consulting without the need for the child to be seen.

I understand how difficult it can be to make the effort to reach out for help when you're depressed. I meet you where you are, and together we find a path to lessen the effects of depression and move you toward the life you imagine. I'm happy to collaborate with psychiatrists or other medical professionals that you may be working with so that we have a team approach.

Anxiety is at an all-time high. Even people who have never experienced racing thoughts, trouble breathing, a tight chest, a knot in their stomach, irritability, trouble sleeping, and other classes symptoms may be suffering this year. Those who know these feelings all too well may be worse this year. I incorporate calming techniques into our work and teach you to reduce symptoms at home too as we work together in session to understand the underlying causes of worry.

When I work with families, every member of the family benefits, even those who may initially be reluctant or fearful about participating in therapy. I create a safe space where each and every family member is honored, respected, and most importantly heard. Improving family dynamics reduces stress in the household and has a positive ripple effect into the individual lives of the family members as well.

Any long term relationship is hard at times. I work with each couple to escape the cycle of blame many couples find themselves trapped in. I help them see and name their problems so they can align themselves together against the difficulties they face. We come up with strategies to enable the members of the couple to have therapeutic conversations at home as well without descending into conflict.

I completed a year of training in narrative therapy as part of my graduate work. I believe the stories we tell about ourselves and our relationships are often limiting and overlook rich histories, strengths, and possibilities. You are the main character in your life and deserve to be treated as such. I help you identify what is truly important so that you can live intentionally according to your own preferences, not necessarily the dictates of the culture.