Elle (Danielle) Winterwood, MSW, LICSW
Founder, Clinician
She/They

More than anything, I believe in our innate ability to nurture ourselves as well as our great ability to accept the support we need during our most challenging times. This is proven to me over and over again as I see folks learn how to tune in to their needs and bravely contact the parts of themselves that most need held, seen, touched and often healed. 

Good therapy should be tailored to fit you and your needs. You shouldn’t need to fit the therapy. Many of the people I work with are outliers and need a therapy experience as unique as they are. My approach is eclectic and intuitive. I draw on a number of therapies and theories including EMDR, feminist therapy, and functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP), based on your needs. If the tool doesn’t fit, we just find one that does.

I specialize. For me to know I’m doing my best work, I limit the folks I work with to those whom I can best help. Some areas I specialize in include:

  • LGBTQIA+ adults

  • Parents of LGBTQIA+ individuals

  • Gender affirming care

  • Gifted and highly sensitive

  • Disability and chronic illness

  • Grief and loss

  • Therapy for therapists

  • Childhood trauma, especially children of borderline or narcissistic parents

Education: I received my Master of Social Work in 2009 from the University of Washington and completed my Bachelor of Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University in 2008. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker.

Background: Prior to private practice, I worked with executives and staff in a patient education program at Fred Hutch to improve patient services, staff resiliency and organizational functioning using social justice, anti-racist and vicarious trauma lenses. 

Beyond Therapy: Outside of work I enjoy the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life alongside my beloved family of humans and animals. I like to listen to podcasts, attempt new recipes, make music and write. I’m known for heading out the door with my shirt (unintentionally) inside out while meditating on the bigger questions this world has to offer us. I am driven by the intensity of learning new things and crave watching the world around me unfold. I am regularly inspired by the cycles and resiliency of nature.

** While I am continuing short-term work with parents of LGBTQIA individuals (especially young kids!) and adjunct EMDR cases, I am not taking on new long term clients at this time through Whole Valley. **

Credential: LW60922280