Counseling
What is Counseling?
Counseling is a collaborative process that supports emotional well-being, self-understanding, and meaningful change. Through conversation, reflection, and evidence-informed therapeutic approaches, counseling can help individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, grief, burnout, and patterns that no longer feel aligned.
Dr. Elleanor Smith, ND, MA, APCC specializes in counseling for women navigating life transitions such as:
→Graduating high school or college
→Starting a new job or career
→Moving to a new city
→Pursuing a new relationship or getting married
→Navigating break-ups, separation, or divorce
→Entering motherhood
→Becoming an empty-nester
→Navigating a new medical or mental health diagnosis
→Entering retirement or a new phase of life
Grounded in person-centered talk therapy, Dr. Smith tailors evidence-based approaches to each individual's needs. Together, you and Dr. Smith will focus on insight, coping, and meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
No one should have to navigate life’s turning points alone. If this resonates with you, I invite you to book a complimentary discovery call.
Elleanor Smith, ND, MA, APCC is a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC #22491) in the state of California and provides counseling services under clinical supervision as a W-2 employee of Willow Mind Health.
Supervised by Whitney McFadden, MD, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, CA Medical License #A176428
Counseling services are provided within the scope of APCC registration under California law. Elleanor Smith is not a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Psychologist, or Marriage and Family Therapist.
Naturopathic medical services and counseling services are distinct professional services governed by separate licenses, scopes of practice, and professional standards.
Professional Disclosure
FAQs
-
My approach to counseling is relational, person-centered, and integrative. I focus on creating a supportive and collaborative space where you can better understand your experiences, emotions, and patterns in a way that feels grounded and non-judgmental.
I draw from evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches and tailor sessions to each individual’s needs. This may include talk therapy, mindfulness-based strategies, psychoeducation, and tools that support nervous system regulation and emotional awareness.
-
The first session is an opportunity for us to explore what brings you to counseling, discuss your goals and concerns, and create a collaborative treatment plan based on your unique needs. You are welcome to share as much or as little as feels comfortable.
-
Yes. I offer a complimentary discovery call for individuals who would like to learn more about counseling services and determine whether working together may feel aligned for their unique needs and goals.
-
Yes. Counseling services and naturopathic medical services are distinct professional services governed by separate licenses, scopes of practice, documentation requirements, and professional standards.
Counseling services are provided under the practice of Dr. Whitney McFadden at Willow Mind Health, within my role as a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) under clinical supervision.
-
Not yet. I am a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC #22491) in California and provide counseling services under clinical supervision.
Supervised by Whitney McFadden, MD, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, CA Medical License #A176428
-
Counseling sessions are available both virtually and in person, depending on availability and clinical appropriateness.
In the heart of Sorrento Valley, California
-
6170 Cornerstone Court East
Unit 100
San Diego, CA 92037
-
Monday: 3:30pm-7:00pm
Tuesday: 3:30pm-7:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am-12:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-12:00pm