- Integrative approach
- Evidence-based techniques
- Speaks English Russian
About Elena
Elena Balashova-Shamis is a California psychologist with 23 years of clinical experience. She holds the CA Psychologist license PSY20104 and brings a long career in assessment, teaching, and clinical care. She speaks English and Russian and practices in California.
Her background includes university teaching and academic work, including lecturing at several local medical and graduate programs. That experience informs how she thinks about problems like stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and depression. She also addresses issues such as attachment and abandonment, body image, caregiver stress, and eating concerns.
Elena uses an integrative approach that draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques and psychoanalytic perspectives. She tailors treatment to each person's needs and mixes short- and long-term strategies. Sessions focus on what is most useful in daily life and on patterns that keep problems going.
In sessions she helps people name what is happening, sort out emotions, and try new ways of relating and coping. She pays attention to past experiences that shape current reactions while helping to build practical skills for the present. The aim is steady, manageable change over time.
Elena’s training and academic roles shape her practice style. She combines thoughtful assessment with practical steps people can use between sessions. Before booking, readers should confirm current session options and scheduling details.
Her background includes university teaching and academic work, including lecturing at several local medical and graduate programs. That experience informs how she thinks about problems like stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and depression. She also addresses issues such as attachment and abandonment, body image, caregiver stress, and eating concerns.
Elena uses an integrative approach that draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques and psychoanalytic perspectives. She tailors treatment to each person's needs and mixes short- and long-term strategies. Sessions focus on what is most useful in daily life and on patterns that keep problems going.
In sessions she helps people name what is happening, sort out emotions, and try new ways of relating and coping. She pays attention to past experiences that shape current reactions while helping to build practical skills for the present. The aim is steady, manageable change over time.
Elena’s training and academic roles shape her practice style. She combines thoughtful assessment with practical steps people can use between sessions. Before booking, readers should confirm current session options and scheduling details.
This summary is based on the profile information listed on BetterHelp.