About Heidi Elias
My Professional Experience Deeply Informs My Work
For more than 30 years, I have worked with adults facing a wide range of emotional and life challenges. My professional experience includes private practice, work in New York City shelters, and many years with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where I served in administrative roles helping to ensure that people living with mental health challenges received high-quality care and services.
I’ve been inspired by the resilience of the people I’ve had the privilege of working with. Their capacity to adapt, move forward, and grow continues to inform how I work today.
My Professional Background
EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
Master of Social Work, Hunter College (Silberman) School of Social Work
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) New York, New Jersey, Florida, Connecticut
Certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP)
MEMBERSHIPS
National Association of Social Workers, Member
New York State Society for Clinical Social Work, Member and Mentor
Somatic Experiencing International, Member
New York City Association of Trauma Therapists
A Personal Understanding of Healing
My interest in healing did not begin with my professional training. It began with my own desire to understand negative experiences that had shaped me, and create something different for myself.
Growing up in an environment where emotional safety was difficult to come by, I developed many of the same struggles I now help clients overcome, including self-doubt, harsh self-criticism, and difficulty speaking up for myself. These adaptations made sense at the time, but they no longer served me as an adult.
Applying this work in my own life has deepened my appreciation for the courage it takes to keep going and the hope that meaningful change is possible.
Get to know me better
What It’s Like to Work With Me
Most people are surprised by how easy it is to talk with me and how quickly they begin to feel at ease. I bring curiosity, compassion, and genuine interest to our conversations, creating a space where you can explore whatever is on your mind.
Rather than telling you what I think or pushing my opinions onto you, I ask thoughtful questions that help you discover truths, insights, and possibilities that have been difficult to see on your own. I believe meaningful change is more powerful when insights arise from within rather than being imposed by me.
My goal is not for you to rely on me. It’s for you to trust yourself, rely on your own judgment, and be on your own side.
Curious how other clients have experienced therapy with me?
Beyond the Therapy Room
Outside of therapy, I enjoy creating art, attending musical theater, spending time with friends and family, and relaxing with my cat.
I have a longstanding interest in social justice and believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
I work hard, laugh often, and make time for the people and activities that matter most to me.
Whether through creativity, meaningful conversations, or giving back to my community, I believe curiosity, humor, and connection make life richer.
Let’s Start With a Conversation
Beginning therapy takes courage.
If you’re considering taking that step, let’s start with a brief phone conversation to answer your questions, get to know one another, and see whether we’re a good fit.
I look forward to hearing your story.