Elise Froistad

I've been in practice for over 25+ years and have had the opportunity to come alongside so many people seeing them work hard and make positive changes in their lives. Not only do they feel better, but they are able to enjoy more positive relationships with themselves and others. It's been rewarding. I enjoy what I do and look forward to helping more people.

My approach

I use a holistic approach but try to help people understand the underlying issues that have led to their current situation. Gaining awareness of those things can empower them to make conscious changes in order to think, feel, behave, and relate in more positive ways. Most of what we do is by habit and unconscious. Some of those things work and some don't. Gaining an understanding of those things that don't work and learning the options that can, will help one live more intentionally.

My focus

I work with those dealing with relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, career/life stress, motivation, boundaries, and purpose.

My communication style

I ask questions to help you consider your experience and what is/is not working, help you identify and express your feelings and needs, make observations to help you gain awareness in order to make changes, connect your past to your present, support, and encourage.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have been a helper all my life starting in elementary school as a reader and tutor to students in the lower grades. I also have younger siblings who I cared for as I'm from a big family so my parents couldn't do everything for all of us. I enjoy getting to know people and relationships are important to me. I am curious and always have been about who people are and what makes them unique. I have been told that I'm a good listener and am wise. I want people to live as good a life as they can so when it came time to choose a career, counseling seemed to be a good fit. I know people sometimes can't figure out how to move forward and just need someone to listen and help them understand themselves, and their situation and to develop skills and abilities to live the life they want, as much as it is in their control. It's rewarding to know people can and do change.

My goals for you

Goals can be helpful, but they can also be a burden if the foundation is not set to achieve them. I use goals as helpful and often guided by my clients' ability and desire to set achievable goals. Working to achieve goals can be a distraction from what might ultimately be more helpful and healing. We need direction and purpose so that a larger goal is set. Setting smaller, achievable goals are based on timing and need.

My first session with you

In my first session, I hope to get to know my clients-what brings them in at this point in their lives, but also just to learn about them as this is important when interacting and helping. I ask questions, but also provide time to answer questions about the process or me, and how I might be helpful. I summarize what I have heard and discuss in partnership with my clients a working plan to move forward so that the person knows what to expect and consents to the plan.