Elizabeth Kanhai, ACSW
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
Associate therapists have completed their academic training for a masters degree and have worked with children and families for several years. In order to sit for their licensing exam, they have to be supervised for approximately 3000 hours after getting their degree. They are currently being supervised by one of our licensed clinicians to obtain these hours and complete this training. Supervision is a collaborative process and your child will have the support of two very capable clinicians.
2 years of clinical experience
GENERAL AVAILABILITY:
Mondays & Tuesdays 9:30AM - 6:30PM
Fridays 11:30AM - 2:30PM
These hours are a general scope of availability, and do not constitute a guarantee of availability. Additionally, these hours are subject to change.
In Elizabeth’s therapeutic sessions, she uses a blend of many different modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, and a few other strength based approaches. Her process is collaborative and client-centered—she begins by creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable sharing, followed by an assessment to understand each client’s goals, needs, and strengths. Together, she will develop a treatment plan that feels meaningful and attainable, allowing clients to build skills, increase self-awareness, and navigate challenges with greater confidence. Clients can expect sessions that are supportive, reflective, and structured, while still offering space to explore whatever feels most present for them. Elizabeth works to create a space with compassion and cultural humility, ensuring clients feel heard, validated, and empowered. Whether in moments of crisis, growth, or transition, her intention is to provide a safe environment where clients can reconnect with themselves and experience real, sustainable change.
Inspired By
What drives Elizabeth as a therapist is the understanding that while full of beautiful moments, life is also made up of difficult challenges - a universal experience for all. She chose this path to help people feel seen, supported, and capable of healing, especially during times when they may feel most alone or overwhelmed. Throughout Elizabeth’s experiences working with students, families, and diverse communities, she witnessed how powerful it can be when someone has a safe space to process their emotions and feel genuinely understood. Mental health is just as important as physical health and she considers it a privilege to be able to support others' growth towards fuller versions of themselves.
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Emotional Regulation
Stress Management
Anxiety
Boundaries
Attachment Issues
Self-Esteem
Work/Life Balance
Children, Teenagers, & Young Adults
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Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Play Therapy Techniques
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
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Bachelors of Science in Health Science with a Minor in Psychology from California State University, East Bay
Master of Social Work with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Family from California State University, East Bay
Tell Me More!
What gets Elizabeth out of bed in the morning is the opportunity to make a positive difference, even in the smallest way. She believes that connection, compassion, and curiosity can create powerful change, both for self and for the people around us. Elizabeth values routines that ground her, connections that inspire her, and moments of learning that challenge her and allow her to continue growing personally and professionally. Ultimately, Elizabeth is driven by the hope that her efforts contribute to a world that feels a little more supportive, stable, and empathetic.
Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. Whether they are enjoying a movie or sharing a meal, she loves any moment that allows them to laugh and have fun together. Though she has lived in the Bay Area her entire life, Elizabeth is still always discovering something new to explore and enjoy. She also has a passion for traveling, binge watching tv shows, reading, listening to music, and following soccer.
Background
As the oldest sibling, Elizabeth naturally developed a strong sense of compassion, empathy, and commitment to supporting others. From a young age, she knew she was drawn to therapeutic work, yet she also wanted a career that offered versatility and room to grow. This combination led her to the field of social work—a profession that allows her to engage in direct clinical care while also exploring diverse roles. Elizabeth earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a minor in Psychology in 2023, followed by her Master of Social Work with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Family in 2025, both from California State University, East Bay. With the blend of personal experience and rigorous academic training, Elizabeth is dedicated to showing up as a dependable, knowledgeable, and compassionate resource for those seeking support.