About Ellen

Meet Ellen Fisher, LCSW (she/her)

Therapist | Trauma-Informed | First Responder & Veteran Specialist

Hi, I’m Ellen, and I offer therapy both in person and online from South Lake Tahoe. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship struggles, grief, and identity concerns. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore who you are, where you’ve been, and where you’d like to go.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent years working with Veterans in California, training mobility service dogs as part of therapeutic interventions across VA mental health programs. That experience opened my eyes to the deep links between trauma, adversity, and recovery and it inspired me to pursue clinical social work.

I’ve since worked in a range of settings, including schools, community-based programs, and private practice. I’ve been vetted by the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA), and I’m especially honored to support first responders and Veterans as they work through the unique challenges of their roles.

In therapy, I use a personalized blend of Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, DBT, CBT, attachment-based approaches, and mindfulness techniques. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I’m here to help you build tools, increase insight, and move toward the kind of life that feels more manageable and meaningful.

For clients who are interested, I also partner with Nando, a calm and intuitive black lab who offers support as a therapy dog during sessions.

Outside of work, you’ll find me outdoors year-round, reading something good, baking, or getting creative with pottery.

If you’re looking for a grounded, thoughtful therapist (and maybe a supportive dog too!), I’d love to meet you. Healing is possible—and you don’t have to do it alone.

Meet Nando!

I am a 5-year-old English black Labrador, trained and placed as a working facility dog through Bergin University of Canine Studies. You might wonder, what is a facility dog? Facility dogs are trained dogs placed with professionals working in health settings whose clientele may benefit from canine interactions. I am trained to do many therapy dog commands as well as other fun commands like opening doors and picking up items. When I’m working, I offer warmth, support, and laughs. Outside of work, I love eating apples and laying in the sun. I look forward to meeting you soon!

CA LCSW # 129226, NV LCSW #12340-C

Offering in person sessions in South Lake Tahoe and telehealth sessions all over California and Nevada.

$150 per session

I contract with a company called Headway to take some insurance. Check your coverage here.

I also accept CalVCB

Depiction of a session, not a real client

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