Diana Elstad, LMHC
Washington LMHC with 35 years experience
- Addictions and recovery
- Trauma and relationships
- Geriatric mental health
About Diana Elstad
Diana Elstad is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and substance use disorder professional practicing in Washington, bringing 35 years of experience in community clinics, treatment centers, hospitals, and private practice. As a geriatric mental health specialist, she has supported hundreds of people facing a wide range of concerns, including addiction and recovery, depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress management, family systems, codependency, self-esteem, relationships, grief and loss, and trauma-related issues.
Diana approaches each person with warmth, kindness, and respect, prioritizing attentive listening and an effort to notice the unspoken feelings that often underlie words. Her style is eclectic, drawing from multiple schools of therapy to tailor care to each individual. She aims to be fully present and to meet clients where they are, adjusting methods to fit their unique circumstances and goals.
With extensive experience across settings and populations, Diana combines clinical knowledge with a practical focus on recovery and coping. Prospective clients can expect a collaborative atmosphere in which the therapist partners with them to navigate life transitions, heal from past wounds, and build strategies for healthier relationships and daily functioning. Diana welcomes the opportunity to work together and support meaningful change.
Diana approaches each person with warmth, kindness, and respect, prioritizing attentive listening and an effort to notice the unspoken feelings that often underlie words. Her style is eclectic, drawing from multiple schools of therapy to tailor care to each individual. She aims to be fully present and to meet clients where they are, adjusting methods to fit their unique circumstances and goals.
With extensive experience across settings and populations, Diana combines clinical knowledge with a practical focus on recovery and coping. Prospective clients can expect a collaborative atmosphere in which the therapist partners with them to navigate life transitions, heal from past wounds, and build strategies for healthier relationships and daily functioning. Diana welcomes the opportunity to work together and support meaningful change.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersSleeping disordersParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepression
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesBody imageCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCommunication problemsControl issuesDissociationDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionEating and food-related issuesEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHoardingHospice and end-of-life counselingImmigration issuesImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsNarcissismPanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issues
Therapeutic Approach
Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Diana Elstad have?
Diana Elstad has 35 years of experience working in mental health and substance use settings.
Is Diana Elstad a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credential LMHC, which stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor. License details are WA LMHC LH 00003771.
In which languages does Diana Elstad provide therapy?
Diana provides therapy in English.
Where is Diana Elstad located?
Diana is located in Washington.
How can I work with Diana Elstad as my therapist?
You can work with Diana Elstad through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Diana Elstad work with international clients?
Diana Elstad does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Diana Elstad cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic approaches and online care for lasting change
Diana draws from client-centered therapy to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where the client’s own goals and experiences guide the work. This approach helps people clarify values, explore feelings, and build confidence in making changes. She also uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; CBT is practical and often useful for anxiety, depression, and coping with stressful life situations. In addition, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills are incorporated when needed to teach emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and improved interpersonal effectiveness, which can be especially helpful for intense emotions and relationship challenges.Diana treats the selection of methods as a collaborative process. She will work with each client to determine which approaches fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds so therapy stays aligned with what matters most to the client.
Online therapy with Diana is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility and access from home or work. These options make it easier to schedule sessions, maintain continuity during life transitions, and engage in regular work toward recovery and growth with a licensed professional.