Ellen earned her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from U.C.L.A. and her
Master's Degree in Social Work at San Diego State University. With
over 35 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Ellen
has a vast amount of experience working in the mental health
field in many different capacities.
While spending several years working full time in the public sector with
emotionally disturbed children and their families, Ellen also developed
and maintained a part time private practice. After several years of
developing professional relationships with numerous physicians, therapists
and school personnel, Ellen decided to expand her practice to full time
beginning in January 2000.
Beginning in April 2014, Ellen and her colleague, April De Higes, LMFT, formed Valencia Relationship Institute and their group practice is very well respected in both the Santa Clarita Valley and Burbank areas. Valencia Relationship Institute
Valencia Relationship Institute (VRI) is a supportive, interactive and solution-focused group practice with 15 licensed and pre-licensed clinicians who provide warm, compassionate and professional therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. Their therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal and professional life challenges. VRI integrates complementary methods and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, the team of clinically sound therapists works with each individual, couple or family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.