​​Ellen is a mother, therapist and educator. Her children range in age from 22 to 37. She received her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Michigan. For over thirty years, Ellen´s professional work has focused on developing helping communities, supporting the psychological and social needs of families from diverse socioeconomic and geographical settings, and on mental health issues of girls and women. She has taught graduate courses in family therapy and social work and developed mental health programs for community organizations. Her breadth of knowledge augmented by her empathic therapeutic style, have earned her recognition and respect in the field of family therapy. She was recently honored as Clinical Social Worker of the Year in San Diego. Presently, in addition to her private practice work, Ellen does supervision and training of professionals. She loves reading, artwork and dancing.​