About

Elva "Julia" Garafola is a licensed clinical social worker with twelve years of practice supporting people through complex emotional and relational challenges. Licensed in both Texas and Missouri, she works with individuals facing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, sleep concerns, and a range of relationship and family issues. Her practice also addresses specialized topics such as adoption and foster care, caregiver stress, chronic illness, attachment concerns, and compassion fatigue.

Her clinical work draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy. Those approaches inform practical skill building, emotion-focused exploration, and attention to relational patterns while honoring each person’s goals and values.

She aims to collaborate with clients grappling with parenting questions, blended family dynamics, identity and body image concerns, or career and life transitions. Elva focuses on helping clients identify meaningful changes, stabilize intense emotions, and develop day-to-day coping strategies that align with their priorities and responsibilities.
Location:
Missouri, United States
Years Experience:
12
Gender:
Female
Languages Spoken:
English
Therapist of Color:
No
Communication Options:
Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging

Specialties

Primary area of focus:Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Other areas of experience: LGBT, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Compassion fatigue, Abandonment, Attachment issues, Blended family issues, Body image, Codependency, Commitment issues, Communication problems, Control issues, Divorce and separation, Domestic violence, Eating and food-related issues, Family of origin issues, Forgiveness, Gender dysphoria, HIV / AIDS, Hoarding, Impulsivity, Infidelity, Isolation / loneliness, Jealousy, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Mood disorders, Multicultural concerns, Narcissism, Postpartum depression, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Sexual dysfunction, Sexuality, Workplace issues, Young adult issues
Therapeutic approach:Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy

Credentials & Verification

  • Credentials: TX LCSW 56813, MO LCSW 2024038145
  • NPI Number: 1790247864
  • License: LCSW (Texas), LCSW (Missouri)

Online sessions and therapeutic approaches



Elva uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients clarify what matters most to them and to practice small, values-based actions. In accessible terms, ACT supports noticing difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, and then choosing behavior that reflects personal priorities. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is used to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns through structured exercises and skill practice.

Attachment-Based therapy and Emotionally-Focused elements guide work on relationship patterns and core emotional needs. In collaboration with clients, Elva explores how early and current attachment experiences influence present relationships and develops strategies to strengthen connection and emotional regulation. Client-Centered principles shape a respectful, collaborative process that prioritizes each person’s pace and goals.

Elva offers remote options including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These formats can be used to practice skills, review progress, and maintain regular contact according to the client’s needs and preferences.

What is Elva Julia Garafola's clinical experience?

She has twelve years of experience providing clinical social work services.

What credentials and licenses does she hold?

Elva holds the LCSW credential. Her licenses include TX LCSW 56813 and MO LCSW 2024038145.

Which languages does she use in sessions?

She conducts therapy in English.

Where is she based?

Her practice is based in Missouri.

How can clients work with her remotely?

Clients can connect via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does she accept international clients?

This profile indicates she is not accepting international clients.

How much do sessions cost?

Cost varies by location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.

What are the steps to get started?

Begin by using the Start Therapy button and completing a short matching questionnaire to initiate care.