Clinician Spotlight - Elise Gower, MSW Student Intern
Four Corners Counseling & Well-Being has skilled, experienced, and compassionate therapists, and we want to share some of what makes them special! Elise specializes in anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, spirituality or existential conflict, relationship with self and others, LGBTQ+ life experiences, identity exploration, stress.
What helps you feel calm in life?
Breathing has become both a tool and a companion in my anxiety journey. I’ve discovered connectedness in my body that has been transformative. I’ve explored different deep breathing techniques and meditations that not only serve me “when needed,” but are part of my daily practice. I’m a big fan of laughing, walking when the world is still asleep, gardening, and filling a room with music.
What is the best vacation you’ve ever had and why?
Travel, generally, excites me! I’m intrigued by the world around us and love exploring new communities. I’m content to try a new restaurant (my favorite thing to do), venture a new neighborhood, discover something new about the diverse landscape of the United States, or travel abroad. My first job was coordinating student international immersion experiences. Some highlights are the connections I formed in Guatemala, Haiti, Thailand, El Salvador, and Tanzania.
What is are three "fun facts" about you?
I started college as an art student. Though it didn’t pan out, I love to be creative.
Being an Auntie is, without a doubt, my most favorite title!
I ran one of the few international marathons that start in one country and end in another – Buffalo, NY to Niagara Falls, Canada.
What brings you joy in your daily life?
I love stories of all kinds – books, podcasts, television, you name it! The best is sitting with loved ones and sharing stories or allowing a story to connect you to a stranger. I believe stories thread relationships, and relationships heal division.
Do you prefer tea or coffee? And what is your favorite food/snack?
I love a slow morning, sipping coffee on my deck. It is such a peaceful, delicious morning ritual. Give me anything crunchy and salty, and I’m in!
What are your hobbies or aspirations outside of being a therapist?
The water is my sacred place. I love kayaking, paddle-boarding, and treading water. I’m a self-taught crocheter. Reading allows me to get lost in my imagination. I dream of someday owning a children’s bookstore.
Where are you from? What is your favorite thing about that place?
I am from a small, square-mile town with no stoplights in northeast Pennsylvania. The name of the town is White Haven. This place has held a lot of complexities for me, many of which the name itself alludes to. I didn’t always love where I was from. I’ve learned, however, to exist in the messiness and the beauty of my roots. White Haven holds both stories of community and false narratives I’ve had to unlearn. I am committed to participating in my neighborhood’s collective growth. When I think of home, I think of a 1.5 mile trail, along the river, that takes you directly to my great-aunt’s house. It’s a beautiful space to experience the changing seasons, and at the end of the trail you are greeted with love and snacks!
Are you a dog or a cat person?
I am a dog person. A BIG dog person. I went from being afraid of dogs to knowing more dog names than human names in our neighborhood. Can I change my answer to the first question? My dog helps me feel calm.
How did you become interested in being a therapist? –
My own therapy experience has been transformative. My first career had various twists and turns, but each led me to a consistent truth: accompanying folks in queer, identity-based, and spiritual journeys is most life-giving to me. I’m especially drawn to the intersections of mental health, LGBTQ+ identity, and spirituality.
What’s your favorite quote or mantra you can’t live without?
Andria Gibson is a queer poet and activist who recently died. They were appointed Colorado’s Poet Laureate in 2023. I get lost in Andria’s writing and spoken word.
“I said to the sun, ‘Tell me about the big bang.’ The sun said, "it hurts to become.”
― Andrea Gibson
Yes, becoming can be painful. And liberating. And an incredible journey!
Learn more about Elise's education and work bio, and schedule a consultation below.