I have been in the field for twenty five years and have learned to adjust to what the client is presenting in the session to achieve a sense of safety. I work with what the client is presenting and focus on how to guide the client to work through their presenting problem. I have had a history of working with a variety of clients and cultures. I started working in a therapeutic community with at risk adolescents. I later worked with court referred gang members. From there I worked with the homeless and the LGBTQ Community on addictions. I opened a private practice in a more suburban environment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences.
In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.
I hold compassion for those who struggle with OCD: The persistent, unwanted, unpleasant thoughts, the sometimes paralyzing anxiety, the compulsive actions, rituals, ruminations, avoidances meant to neutralize the thoughts. I also have an understanding of how often OCD can be misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and the shame and stigma sufferers sometimes feel. Most of my work involves helping people gain control over their OCD and process traumas including interpersonal abuse from friends, family and coworkers (sometimes related to OCD, unfortunately), adverse childhood experiences, and bullying -- past or present. I also work issues related to OCD, such as body dysmorphia, eating disorders that intersect with their OCD, emetophobia, social anxiety, generalized anxiety.
I am currently licensed in Florida (MT 4081) and in California (MFC 103044) and accept telehealth clients through a secure HIPAA compliant video platform. In addition to OCD and anxiety treatment I provide support to people coping with chronic illness such as cancer and autoimmune disease, self esteem issues, grief and loss.
I welcome neurodivergent people -- many of my clients are autistic or have tic disorders or ADHD diagnoses in addition to some of the other issues detailed above.
Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and the elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments.
She teaches at five local universities, including UCLA’s medical school. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising. She also works with family and criminal law courts as an expert witness.