- 35 years experience
- LMFT in California
- Focus on thoughts
About Elisabeth
Elisabeth VanBuskirk is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with 35 years of clinical experience. She helps people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma and abuse. Elisabeth aims to make the first step toward change feel achievable and supported.
She creates a calm, nonjudgmental space where clients can talk through upsetting thoughts and strong feelings. Conversations focus on practical ways to cope day to day, build confidence, and regain motivation. She also helps people work through grief and loss at a pace that fits them.
Her practice is centered on listening and collaboration. Elisabeth works with each person to set simple, realistic goals and to try small changes that can improve daily routines and thinking patterns. Sessions often include talking through problems, practicing new responses, and reflecting on progress.
Over three decades of experience give her a broad perspective on common life challenges. She draws on methods that are evidence based to address symptoms and habits that interfere with daily life. The focus includes thoughts and everyday habits that keep problems going.
Elisabeth invites clients to bring what matters most to them and to move toward a more satisfying life one step at a time. People who want straightforward, steady support for anxiety, depression, grief, or lasting effects of trauma may find her approach helpful.
She creates a calm, nonjudgmental space where clients can talk through upsetting thoughts and strong feelings. Conversations focus on practical ways to cope day to day, build confidence, and regain motivation. She also helps people work through grief and loss at a pace that fits them.
Her practice is centered on listening and collaboration. Elisabeth works with each person to set simple, realistic goals and to try small changes that can improve daily routines and thinking patterns. Sessions often include talking through problems, practicing new responses, and reflecting on progress.
Over three decades of experience give her a broad perspective on common life challenges. She draws on methods that are evidence based to address symptoms and habits that interfere with daily life. The focus includes thoughts and everyday habits that keep problems going.
Elisabeth invites clients to bring what matters most to them and to move toward a more satisfying life one step at a time. People who want straightforward, steady support for anxiety, depression, grief, or lasting effects of trauma may find her approach helpful.
Areas of expertise
Additional focus areas
AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesBlended family issuesBody imageChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsDependent personalityDissociationDivorce and separationDomestic violenceEating and food-related issuesEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsForgivenessGuilt and shameIsolation / lonelinessMidlife crisisMood disordersObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stressSelf-loveSexual assault and abuseSocial anxiety and phobiaSomatizationWomen's issues
Experience
35+ years
Credentials
California
Languages
English
How evidence-based approaches guide online therapy
Elisabeth uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help people change unhelpful thought patterns and daily habits. One common approach focuses on identifying and testing negative thoughts so they have less power over mood and behavior; this helps with anxiety and depression by teaching clearer ways of thinking. Another approach emphasizes practical skills and small behavior changes to improve routines, reduce stress, and build confidence in everyday life; this often helps with motivation and coping after loss.Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the work. Elisabeth collaborates with each person to choose methods that match their needs, goals, and preferences. She will adjust strategies as progress unfolds so the plan stays practical and relevant.
Confirm current session options before booking, as formats are not specified here. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life by saving travel time and allowing appointments during lunch breaks or between errands. It can also let someone have a shorter check-in when needed or avoid being on camera if that helps them focus. Ask about available formats when scheduling to pick what works best for daily routines and comfort.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does Elisabeth address?
She works with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, self esteem issues, and depression, along with related concerns such as abandonment, attachment issues, chronic illness, and body image.
How would you describe her therapeutic style?
Her style is steady and practical, focused on listening, setting achievable goals, and trying small changes to daily thoughts and habits.
What is her professional background?
She has 35 years of professional work experience helping people with emotional and life challenges.
What credential does she hold and where is she based?
She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT, licensed in California.
Which languages are available for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients schedule with her?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are fees and payment handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What steps do I take to begin working with her?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to therapist availability.