Eli Simmons

MA, LMSW

About Eli

Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or you have spent ages trying to find the right fit, everyone is welcome regardless of where they are at in their journey. I am a firm believer in my clients being the experts of their life and my role as a therapist is to provide an affirming, collaborative, and humorous environment for clients to explore and grow. I also believe that the therapeutic alliance we develop together is the foundation in anyone’s recovery journey, that there is no one-shoe-fits-all approach to therapy, and that each client brings their own knowledge and strengths into the therapy space. I take the time to get to know every client outside of their mental health experiences because, at the end of the day, we are all more than our struggles.

I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, focusing my studies in clinical counseling with LGBTQ+ neurodiverse people, people with chronic illness and disabilities, and people with complex trauma and dissociation. As a transgender, neurodiverse person myself, I know how difficult it can be to find someone who understands what it is like navigating gender identity concerns and a spicy brain that makes what seems like a simple task feel impossible to accomplish. Although our experiences are likely different and we may come from different walks of life, I offer a space for clients with similar struggles that is non-judgemental, humorous, and truly gets it on a level that others in your life may not.

In my work, I take an eclectic approach since certain modalities may be a better fit than others depending on your needs and preferences, strengths, and what is bringing you to therapy. I typically utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-based interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy, Strengths-based interventions, Internal Family Systems, and Person-centered Therapy. I also work with clients on developing and strengthening self-advocacy skills, especially when it comes to navigating complex relationships and the medical system. I have received training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, which I incorporate in my work with clients who are wanting to address complex trauma and dissociation. I also complete Letter of Support evaluations for clients seeking gender-affirming medical care.

Outside of my clinical practice, I enjoy playing video games, making pottery, spending time with my wife and our pets, gardening, cooking and baking, and feeding my curiosity by researching random topics that come to mind. I also love working as a part-time barista.