About Elizabeth Polinsky, LCSW
Hi there! I'm a couple and family therapist in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area. I specialize in working with military and veteran families. I believe that no one should face their struggle alone. I enter the room in a warm, honest, supportive, and direct way. I won’t be a distant therapist; I get up close and personal with whatever is going on. I excel at creating safety and comfort in my office so you can take risks, learn about yourself and your loved ones, and grow. You will get the benefit of my whole being—my years of training, laser focus on the issues, as well as my deep empathy and understanding. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I will be thoughtful, creative and work to help you build lasting and loving relationships. I will walk alongside you through your journey; I will help you not feel alone.
I’m trained in several research-based models; this means I’ve learned techniques that really work for people. Discovering new perspectives, exploring new ideas and discussing possibilities is exciting to me. I especially love to talk about theories and the science behind things. In every conversation with a client I learn more about life. I enjoy using humor and metaphors in therapy to help us wrap our heads around life's big questions.
Trauma is my area of expertise, especially relational trauma in couples and families. I’ve spent the past five years working specializing in military related concerns. PTSD is usually associated with soldiers returning from war, yet the vast majority of people who experience it have never been anywhere near a combat zone. One partner can experience severe trauma and the other may experience symptoms too. Things we don’t think of can cause trauma—such as having a serious illness or a difficult birth, being in a verbally abusive relationship, loving someone with an addiction, or being abused or neglected as a child.
I know the negative impact trauma can have on your life and how difficult it is to overcome. Feelings of guilt and shame are common when you believe your situation isn’t “serious” enough. It is especially frustrating when difficult emotions and issues resurface after a stressful life event such as moving, career change, a loss or a betrayal. You might feel some anxiety about the idea of starting this work and that’s understandable. We will work together to move at your speed. I can help you enjoy other people’s company again, have the relationships you long for, and feel at peace.
Reaching out and allowing somebody to help you sort through pain can be an intimidating process. It takes courage. Not every therapist is a good match and the most important thing is you. I believe the foundation to the therapy process is building a relationship between myself and my clients. Through this genuine relationship we’ll collaborate to help you live a more meaningful life that fits with your personal values and goals. I have the utmost respect for the bravery of each person that takes the huge step to reach out for help. I offer a free 20-minute consultation to see what it would be like to work together. My goal is to provide a safe space for your story and to help you achieve healthy relationships and self-worth. I would be honored to be part of your healing process.
I’m trained in several research-based models; this means I’ve learned techniques that really work for people. Discovering new perspectives, exploring new ideas and discussing possibilities is exciting to me. I especially love to talk about theories and the science behind things. In every conversation with a client I learn more about life. I enjoy using humor and metaphors in therapy to help us wrap our heads around life's big questions.
Trauma is my area of expertise, especially relational trauma in couples and families. I’ve spent the past five years working specializing in military related concerns. PTSD is usually associated with soldiers returning from war, yet the vast majority of people who experience it have never been anywhere near a combat zone. One partner can experience severe trauma and the other may experience symptoms too. Things we don’t think of can cause trauma—such as having a serious illness or a difficult birth, being in a verbally abusive relationship, loving someone with an addiction, or being abused or neglected as a child.
I know the negative impact trauma can have on your life and how difficult it is to overcome. Feelings of guilt and shame are common when you believe your situation isn’t “serious” enough. It is especially frustrating when difficult emotions and issues resurface after a stressful life event such as moving, career change, a loss or a betrayal. You might feel some anxiety about the idea of starting this work and that’s understandable. We will work together to move at your speed. I can help you enjoy other people’s company again, have the relationships you long for, and feel at peace.
Reaching out and allowing somebody to help you sort through pain can be an intimidating process. It takes courage. Not every therapist is a good match and the most important thing is you. I believe the foundation to the therapy process is building a relationship between myself and my clients. Through this genuine relationship we’ll collaborate to help you live a more meaningful life that fits with your personal values and goals. I have the utmost respect for the bravery of each person that takes the huge step to reach out for help. I offer a free 20-minute consultation to see what it would be like to work together. My goal is to provide a safe space for your story and to help you achieve healthy relationships and self-worth. I would be honored to be part of your healing process.
Experience
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia (#0904011022), South Carolina (#11302), and Arkansas (#7735-C). I am a member of the National Association of Social Workers, and hold a master’s degree from the University of South Carolina. In addition, I have graduate Certificate in Social Work with Military Members, Veterans, and their Families from the University of South Carolina. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy as well. While I am a fully and independently licensed clinical social worker, I am pursuing an additional license as a marriage and family therapist (LMFT). Currently I am licensed as a Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Virginia (#0730000567) under the supervision of Marianne Coad, LCP, LMFT. While I am not yet independently licensed as an LMFT, marriage and family therapy does fall within the scope of practice for clinical social work as well as within my experience and training as a clinical social worker. Along with my educational experiences, I also have extensive training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy; and am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
I have over 6 years experience working as a mental health counselor. I have worked in community mental health; the Veteran's Health Administration; and now private practice. My work in community mental health and the VA required me to deliver comprehensive mental health assessments, facilitate groups, and engage adults in therapy services. Recently, I have primarily served veterans and military members in East Beach, Norfolk. Much of this work revolved around helping couples build a strong emotional connection and communicate more effectively.
My own learning journey continued after graduate school, and has become more rich and focused through my engagement in ongoing training and consultation, where I have refined my skills in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples and Families.
Lastly, my own personal path with therapy adds to my special interest and expertise in helping strengthen relationships. This interest includes support for individuals as they navigate the challenges of ending relationships and recovering from relationship loss.
I have over 6 years experience working as a mental health counselor. I have worked in community mental health; the Veteran's Health Administration; and now private practice. My work in community mental health and the VA required me to deliver comprehensive mental health assessments, facilitate groups, and engage adults in therapy services. Recently, I have primarily served veterans and military members in East Beach, Norfolk. Much of this work revolved around helping couples build a strong emotional connection and communicate more effectively.
My own learning journey continued after graduate school, and has become more rich and focused through my engagement in ongoing training and consultation, where I have refined my skills in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples and Families.
Lastly, my own personal path with therapy adds to my special interest and expertise in helping strengthen relationships. This interest includes support for individuals as they navigate the challenges of ending relationships and recovering from relationship loss.
Outside Therapy
Outside the office I can be found in a yoga class, one of my Ph.D. classes, or swing dancing. While I am often in my office, I also identify as an academic therefore am often involved in research projects as well as the clinical supervision and training of upcoming therapists.
