Hello wonderful humans! Welcome to another week. My name is Eliza, and I am a therapist here at Pacifica Counseling in Peachtree Corners. A few things about me: I am originally from Alabama (ROLLL TIDE!), and I love exploring, music, purple, and therapy! When I am not working, you will probably find me reading a thriller book, writing music, exploring with friends, or thrift shopping-which is my (not so) guilty pleasure! I joined Pacifica Counseling because I believe in therapy, I believe that people deserve to give back to themselves, and I believe in my wonderful team.
To talk about my therapeutic background, I must first talk about my parents. I was raised by a family that loves therapy and the community around them. *Side note: Yes, I grew up with TWO therapists as parents. Yes, it was probably an experience just like in your head (HA!). As a child, I would huff and puff about my parents “therapizing me” (as I like to call it), but as I have grown, I have realized how thankful I am for their guidance in learning these skills from a young age.* I grew up with many non-biological sisters, due to my parents fostering homeless and pregnant teenagers. When I was in middle school, my parents began services for Intellectually Disabled adults to help the community have the freedom and privileges they deserve. Soon after, my parents became a safe house for the Department of Human Resources.
Growing up, it makes sense why my heart led me to therapy! In college, I worked for two semesters in the Spain Rehab Inpatient Unit at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where I was able to conduct music therapy with the residents, as well as learn the ins and outs of medical treatment. Upon moving to Atlanta in 2020, I began working in a residential unit for eating disorders, where I provided group therapy and personalized care. In 2022, I completed my clinical internship at Emory-Wesley Woods Hospital in their Outpatient transitions program, where I was able to provide group therapy and individual therapy to all outpatient needs. After graduating in May with my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I officially began work as an Eating Disorder Clinician, as well as joined this amazing practice a few weeks later.
In sessions, my goal is to provide a safe, catered, and humorous space to allow clients to explore the questions “What do I need?” and “What do I want?”. In this fast paced and at times, perfectionistic society we live in, I want to remind you that being you is more than okay! You deserve this time, space, and everything in between. On my computer I have a sticker that says, “Remember WHY you started.” It is a constant reminder to keep going, keep growing, and keep glowing! To those who struggle with perfectionism, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or need a step down from treatment, please contact me. I would love to go on this journey with you! And remember: Do something nice for yourself this week! You deserve it!
