Elena Manucharyan

My name is Elena Manucharyan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Fresno, California. I work with clients via telehealth. I have experience working with adolescents and foster youth with high needs and specialize in anxiety, trauma, stress, and depressive disorders, using Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients process their life events and progress forward.

My approach

My approach to therapy varies based on each client’s needs. I most frequently use Client-Centered Therapy to help me meet my clients where they are and focus our treatment on their personal goals and needs. I also utilize art therapy techniques to incorporate creative methods of expression for clients who have difficulty expressing their emotions.

My focus

I have found that my approach and style are a good fit for youth and adults who may be dealing with challenges of life and social pressures or have experienced criticism or disapproval for choices made. This allows me to offer my acceptance, empathy, and guidance as clients work on personal growth and positive change. I also work with family members of my clients to provide skills to better support the clients with their mental health symptoms and life transitions.

My communication style

My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking about anything without feeling judgment. I also want to be honest and open with my communication and encourage clients to do the same.

My journey to mental healthcare

I chose to become a therapist to help individuals learn skills to have confidence in themselves and continue growing. Specifically for adolescents and foster youth, I have always been drawn to teaching them how to advocate for their needs and recover despite the extensive trauma they have experienced. I continue to have empathy for all individuals experiencing challenges and want to help in whatever capacity I can.

My goals for you

My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what YOU want to accomplish in our sessions. This starts by building a trusting relationship and getting comfortable with the process of therapy. Your sessions are designed to empower you to choose your course of treatment and how we will accomplish those goals.

My first session with you

You can expect our first session together to be talking about what has been happening recently and help me understand why those experiences make you feel the feelings you have. I would like to build a connection and learn the best approach for helping you move forward with your treatment goals.