Elena Knepprath, LCSW

I believe everyone can live a fulfilling life with meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, and hope for the future. Sometimes a fulfilling life seems out of reach because of distortions in our patterns of thinking, imbalance in our relationships, or systemic barriers beyond our control. Oftentimes it is unclear what is causing our suffering and we may feel hopeless that things will ever change. But even if our outside world doesn’t change, I believe we can obtain the tools and insight to find calm and bring peace to our inner world. You are the expert of your own life, and I am available as a guide. Together we will explore the root of your suffering, process what is found, and work towards your goals. The road to meeting your goals will be custom tailored to your specific needs, and may include reflections, journaling, tracking worksheets, reading books, mindfulness exercises, role playing, etc. As a clinician, I often draw from the following perspectives: mindfulness based therapeutic approaches, strengths-based perspectives, systems theory, attachment theory, social justice frameworks, trauma-informed approaches, and interpersonal neurobiology. We may also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems modalities. Credentials: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Oregon Board of Licensed Clinical Social Workers. I graduated from Portland State University with my Masters in Social Work in 2019. My focus in graduate school was emphasized in health across the lifespan, with clinical internships at OHSU Neurology Clinic and the Providence Beginnings program focused on serving families during pregnancy, birth, and NICU stays. I have clinical experience supporting clients within healthcare systems, as well as educational systems. Beyond clinical experience, I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and families in community based settings including housing and school communities.