Chas Elmer, LMSW
Verified background check
Message from Chas
My main motive in joining the field of mental health stems from my purpose of empowering clients by providing them with the appropriate tools to gain an understanding of emotional processes and the ability to heal. I pride myself in expressing empathy, compassion and respect for all individuals in their most vulnerable times. I enjoy improving the quality of life for adults by utilizing evidence-based practices. The types of therapy and modalities I use in my areas of specialty include ACT, CBT, DBT, PTSD relief, psychodynamic theory, solution-focused brief therapy, action oriented therapy, motivational interviewing, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation to name a few. Grief and bereavement counseling is an immense passion of mine as loss comes in various forms. I believe there is no cookie cutter approach to therapy. I choose to formulate a tailored treatment plan by utilizing evidence based practices that are the most relevant and effective for each individual depending on their unique, presenting problem.
About Chas's practice
Weekdays 9am - 5pm
Weekdays Before 9am
Weekends 9am - 5pm
Weekends After 5pm
Weekdays After 5pm
$$
Sliding scale
Directive
Reflective
Body-based
In-person available: No
Virtual available: Yes
Intrusive Thoughts
Romantic Life
Codependency
Trauma
Grief and Bereavement
Existential Crisis or Transition
Depression
Anxiety
Evernorth Behavioral Health
Blue Cross Blue Shield BCBS
Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
United / Oxford
Cigna
Aetna
Anthem
MVP
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield
Fidelis
Oscar
MetroPlus
GHI
UMR
Magnacare
NY
Why state matters
Get to Know Chas
"Chas allowed me to look at life through a totally reframed lens. My depression was debilitating after losing someone very close to me. I am very thankful for her guidance and support."
BH, Client
"After moving across the country and losing a job while also starting a new career path, Chas offered me a safe space and the support needed to transition into these difficult phases of life. The coping skills I learned from her will stay with me forever. "
AT, Client
"I was reluctant to start therapy to deal with my anxiety and depression after my breakup. Chas made me feel heard and understood right away. She helped this very intimidating process go much smoother than I ever imagined. I felt so safe and comfortable with her."
EP, Client
"Chas helped me not only overcome my grief from my friend’s unexpected passing, she also provided me with the tools to get excited about my life again. She helped me to explore and overcome this trauma with respect and complete compassion."
GT, Client
How should I prepare for my first session with you?
For someone who is reluctant to begin therapy, I would like to share that I admire your bravery in even considering a pathway to improve your well being. Beginning therapy is a very vulnerable feeling for most, but also is one of the most courageous acts of self love one can exhibit. When first meeting a client I prioritize actively listening to them in order to gain an adequate understanding of their past experiences, present issues and future goals while building an initial foundation of trust.
How can you tell if I am benefiting from working with you?
Consistent assessments of your objectives and goals are done to ensure actions are being followed and substantial progress is being made by completing treatment plans.
How will our relationship be different than relationships I have with friends/loved ones?
I am able to offer a professional, unbiased opinion of your encounters, experiences and situations in general. I will be a safe space to discuss anything and everything without the fear of judgement or relationship repercussions.
Are there any philosophies or values that inform your work that I should know about?
The main philosophies and values that inform my work include my utmost commitment to allow clients to reach their highest quality of life and relationships in the most accessible and obtainable ways possible.
From your perspective, what is therapy?
To me, therapy is the pathway to internal understanding of thoughts and emotions which leads to external improvements in behavior and actions. My goal is for each client to achieve the best quality of life possible by means of evidence based practices and support. I hope every client takes away enlightenment of their own resilience and self worth after working with me.
What led you to become a mental healthcare practitioner?
My main motive in joining the field of mental health stems from my purpose of empowering clients by providing them with the appropriate tools to gain an understanding of their emotional processes and their ability to heal while progressing. I pride myself in possessing and expressing empathy, compassion and respect for all individuals in their most vulnerable times.
What is the best part of the work for you?
The best part of being a therapist is to see my clients flourish in their self progression through acknowledging and utilizing their resilience with the appropriate tools and support provided by me.