hey there!
Meet Elissa.
Elissa Shaw, LCSW, is the founder of Sanctuary Psychotherapy, PLLC. where she helps individuals and couples create meaningful lives grounded in an understanding that healing happens in relationship, not in isolation. Elissa is a seasoned psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience. Clients describe her as compassionate, warm, and relatable. Her approach blends Relational Life Therapy (RLT), mindfulness, parts work, attachment-based therapy, and coaching. It is anchored in the belief that healing occurs through witnessing each person’s unique experience and holding space for change to unfold in a safe environment. Therapy with Elissa is tailored to your unique needs and designed to help cultivate awareness, shift unhelpful patterns, and live with greater clarity and authenticity.
In addition, Elissa has training in yoga, dance and acting and brings body-based practices into her work. She aspires to create an atmosphere of healing that helps people uncover their strengths, heal old wounds, and find meaning and purpose in their lives.
My Approach
My approach is grounded in compassionate witnessing of your experience. It is informed by years of experience sitting with others as they navigate the ups and downs of life. I work with the parts of you that keep repeating painful patterns and support you in creating new ones.
I help you slow down and be present with your experience as it unfolds. I walk with all the parts of you that may never have felt safe to express themselves before, and I guide you with care, honesty, and humility as we navigate the path forward together.
Background& Services
Background & Education : I obtained my advanced clinical license in 2010 after graduating from UT Austin with an MSSW in 2006. Throughout my early career I worked in community mental health clinics, hospitals, and schools before opening my private practice in 2016. I also hold an M.Ed. in Educational Psychology from the University of Arizona and a BA in Anthropology and Environmental Studies. In addition, I’ve studied both Dance and Acting in college and beyond.
Certifications: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, in Texas and a certified coach in Relational Life Therapy through the Relational Life Institute. To learn more about RLT, you can explore www.relationallife.com.
Continuing Education: Through advanced training in attachment, parts work, experiential approaches, yoga and mindfulness, I am able to infuse my practice with up-to-date knowledge.
Specialties & Expertise
I specialize in working with both individuals and couples, and with those experiencing the lasting effects of early relational wounds, highly sensitive persons, and individuals experiencing stress, burnout, or life transitions. My work also includes supporting clients navigating depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In addition, I provide consultation for therapists and social workers who want to deepen their practice.
Get to Know Me
Haruki Murakami
Finch & Ronin
Creativity
happy places
Gazing at turquoise blue water and exploring coral reefs
Dance
Fav Author
The Boys
pick me up
Matcha
Out In Nature
Ready for a change?
If something about Elissa’s approach has resonated, you can reach out to her through the Austin Integrative Therapy Collective contact page or visit www.elissashaw.com to learn more. Elissa is located in South Central Austin and online.