Welcome

Elena Ryabtseva, MS, LMHC, CGT

Psychotherapist, Educator,
Independent Scholar

(She/Her)

I am a somatic Gestalt therapist & Jungian analyst

with 10+ years of clinical experience, and a teaching faculty at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland.

My Approach

I practice a body-oriented, relational, and culturally sensitive approach, specializing in working with survivors of dysfunctional upbringing, acute and chronic trauma, LGBTQIA+ themes, women's themes, spirituality, and psychedelic integration. 

I work holistically, relationally, and symbolically. I integrate embodied awareness, work with the moment-to-moment emergent experience of the relational field, and pay close attention to the unconscious material manifesting in persistent moods, dreams, and repeating life themes over time. Theoretically, I also draw upon a combination of somatic studies, attachment theory, feminist theory, astrology, alchemical studies, energy psychology, and myth & fairy tale narratives. I honor all faith systems, spiritual orientations, and walks of life, and foster curiosity and self-exploration, creating a space free of judgment for you to balance out your inner and outer worlds.

Find out more about my approach by visiting Individual Therapy, Psychedelic Therapy & Integration, and Group Therapy pages.

Training & Education

Clinical Training

Education

  • MS in Mental Health Counseling

  • MS in Applied Mathematics

  • BS in Applied Mathematics

Systemic Approach

My early professional career was centered on studying systems theory, nonlinear dynamics, and conducting mathematical modeling of processes in complex dynamic systems. After making a professional leap into the field of psychotherapy, I received my post-graduate training at Gestalt Associates for Psychotherapy, Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, and Esalen Institute.

I’m currently deepening my understanding of the human condition at the Jungian Psychoanalytic Association. Throughout my career as a psychotherapist, I worked with a range of populations in a number of clinical settings: from Streetwork Project’s drop-in center for homeless and at-risk youth, to a mental health agency serving underprivileged communities of Brooklyn, to a private practice in Manhattan. My clinical experience spans all age categories, socioeconomic and racial backgrounds. 

Embodied Presence

My way of approaching service to my patients is grounded in more than extensive academic training and years of clinical experience. It is my professional belief that a therapist’s capacity for embodied presence is what forms the ground for an effective therapeutic environment. I view my own personal development and embodiment as integral components of my capacity to be present to what emerges for my patients. 

This is why I continue to be in ongoing personal therapy, clinical supervision, and post-graduate training. I actively nurture myself through spiritual practice and daily movement, and balance out years of academic training with experiential learning and insights through my connection to nature. 

“Fear is the cheapest room in the house.
I would like to see you living
In better conditions…”
— Hafiz