I am a licensed clinical therapist with 14 years experience working with adults, children, and families. I earned an associate degree in early childhood education from Delaware Technical and Community College and completed my bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from Salisbury University. I use a humanistic approach and am passionate about connecting with and encouraging others to overcome any issue. I frequently utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy and Eye Movement De-sensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Creating a safe and nonjudgmental space is essential for healing and growth. I seek to ensure each client feels heard, validated and encouraged.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients can anticipate entering an office environment that is warm and welcoming, where they will feel acknowledged, listened to, and validated, fostering a sense of hope. Our initial session will primarily focus on acquainting ourselves with one another and conducting a psychological evaluation. I will explore the reasons you are seeking therapy and discuss any mental health symptoms you might be experiencing. A mental health diagnosis will be determined after a thorough analysis of symptoms, and a personalized treatment plan will be developed.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a therapist include my deep compassion and empathy towards others, my eagerness to assist individuals in their growth and overcoming challenges, my ability to connect with people, bring laughter, and teach clients to embrace themselves as they are.
About Ellen Schwinn
Address
202 East Main Street, Fruitland, MD, USAAppointments
Free consults, virtual & in-person
My treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT has been an extremely effective treatment method which I frequently use to assist clients in changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. I use CBT to help clients by identifying and challenging negative thoughts, teaching coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety, and setting goals for behavior change. I may periodically use homework assignments and role-playing activities to assist clients in new skill development.
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy that helps clients process through traumatic experiences and memories. I use EMDR to help clients by guiding them through bilateral stimulation, such as side to side eye movements or taps, while they are focusing on distressing memories. This helps the brain reprocess traumatic information in an adaptive way, diminishing the emotional charge of the memory and alleviating symptoms. I have seen firsthand the positive impacts EMDR has had on client's ability to overcome painful, traumatic experiences. EMDR is an evidenced based therapy that is effective in treatment of PTSD and other trauma related conditions.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I frequently use Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to emphasize clients’ strengths and resources to create positive change. Unlike traditional therapy, which delves into the root causes of problems, SFBT focuses on present and future goals. SFBT is brief and goal-oriented, lasting up to 5 sessions. SFBT empowers clients to take charge of their growth, spotlighting what you can do versus what you cannot. I enjoy how collaborative this approach aligns with a client's strengths and aspirations.
Humanistic
I enjoy using Humanistic methods in my practice as this approach is non-directive and treats clients an equal partner in their healing journey. I offer empathy and unconditional positive regard to create genuine connection and foster a safe space for self-exploration.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I frequently use Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT) in my practice to promote self-awareness, emotional regulation and well-being. I teach clients how to effectively use techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and movement to motivate clients to be present, compassionate, and resilient, improving their overall well-being.
