Meet Ellen
Owner & Psychotherapist
Ellen Meystedt (she/her)
MA, NCC, LPC, CCST
Get to know Ellen
Welcome! I’m grateful you found your way here.
If you’re reading this, you’ve likely hit a rough patch. Whether that be you’re trying to figure out how to parent, your child is experiencing challenges, or you/your teen is having difficulties navigating life. Whatever the case may be, you are here because you’re seeking help. I’m truly honored that you’re considering working with me.
My journey in the mental health field began as a client myself. I sought help shortly after the sudden passing of my mother while I was in the midst of completing my Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. I had worked in the hospitality field for several years, and with help from my own therapist, I decided I wanted to make a career change due to the incredible benefits I was experiencing through therapy and my strong desire to help others.
I made the decision to attend St. Edward’s University where I graduated with my Master’s in Counseling. I began my clinical experience working with adults & adolescents struggling with severe, chronic mental illness at Austin State Hospital. After this, I transitioned to working with children, teens, and families at Austin Family Counseling where I quickly found my passion for play therapy and sandtray therapy. Today, my focus continues to be serving children, teens, and families in the Austin, TX, area.
Some of my interests outside of the therapy room include baking, practicing yoga, dancing, spending time with loved ones, cuddling my sweet Yorkie pup, and finding creative outlets. You can usually find me spending free time either watching/reading Harry Potter or engulfed in a comedic show/movie.
Therapy with El
You can expect a warm, welcoming, and curious presence from myself. Once we have established our relationship our work can really begin. The work with my clients may vary based on the goals established, age of the client(s), and the client’s personality and/or interests.
Children (ages 3-12)
Client-centered play therapy & sandtray therapy are consistently utilized for this age group. For older children, more goal-directed activities may be incorporated.
Adolescents / Teens (ages 13-18)
Client-centered therapy, sandtray therapy, internal family systems therapy, mindfulness-based practices, and a strengths-based approach are consistently utilized for this age group. Pieces of other modalities may also be incorporated.
Parents
Client-centered therapy, attachment theory, a strengths-based approach, solution-focused conversation, bibliotherapy, and human growth & development psychoeducation are consistently utilized during parent sessions. Pieces of other modalities may also be incorporated.
Modalities
Attachment Theory
Client-Centered Therapy
Feminist Theory
Internal Family Systems ( AKA parts work)
Mindfulness-Based Practices
Narrative Therapy
Play Therapy
Sandtray Therapy
Solution-Focused Conversation
Strengths-Based Approaches
Relational Therapy
Trauma-Informed Care
Specialities
Anxiety & Depression
ADHD
Behavioral Concerns (i.e., aggression, defiance, school difficulties, potty training, encopresis, etc.)
Grief & Loss
Interpersonal Relationships
Life Transitions (i.e., divorce/separation, moving, new school/grade, etc.)
Perfectionism / People-Pleasing
Self-Esteem & Body Image
Stress Management
Trauma
Advanced Trainings
Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator
Child Psychopharmacology for Play Therapists
Ethical Play Therapy with Children of Divorce
Playing with ADHD: Play Therapy Interventions for Children Diagnosed with ADHD
Sandtray Training Level 1
Basic Tools & Methods for Experiencing Sandtray in Play Therapy
Sandtray Training Level 2
Basic Clinical Skills & Theory in Witnessing Sandtray work in Play Therapy
Sandtray Training Level 3
The Symbolic Integration of Sandtray & Play Therapy Using a Professional Perspective
Sandtray Training Level 4
Advanced Clinical Skills in Sandtray Play Therapy
Sandtray Training Level 6
The Work of Children & Adolescents in Sandtray & Play Therapy
St. Edward’s University Master’s Level Play Therapy Course
Rates
$155 - 50 min session / individual or parent check-ins
$175 - 50 min session / families
I accept credit/debit, check, cash, or HSA.
I offer a limited amount of sliding scale spots to those in need. Contact me to inquire.
At this time, I only accept private pay, however, your insurance may still cover sessions. We can create a superbill for you to submit to your insurance in hopes of getting our sessions covered. Please note, it is up to your insurance company to accept or deny coverage via superbill.
