Elizabeth Forbes

Hello! I’m Libby (Elizabeth) Forbes. At the outset, please know that you are so brave to take this step to take care of you! You matter, you qualify, and you are worthy! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). My philosophy is: “If each of us is better, then all of us are better.” I have always embraced and enjoyed helping others. I work to meet you right where you are. From there, we work together to explore where you want to go.

My approach

First, I create a client-centered space that is safe, open, and supportive and that encourages collaboration. From there, I rely on a combination of several theories (e.g., Systems, Social Learning, Developmental, Conflict, and Psychodynamic) to help each of my clients develop their awareness and understanding of self and the world around self. Using a biopsychosocial approach, I explore my clients’ goals, objectives, and interventions, which can lead to client empowerment—that is, a strengthening in one’s own abilities to take charge of, and even create, their own positive outcomes. Through this partnership, my goal is for each of my clients to build (or repair) their own sense of self, including developing and improving their self-esteem and self-confidence.

My focus

As a Telehealth Therapist, it is my privilege to work with teens, teens transitioning into adults, adults, families, and elders in various areas including Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Adolescent Challenges, Relationships, Parent-Child Relationships, Life Transitions and Events, Aging, Postpartum, and Death and Dying. Some commonly used interventions include but are not limited to Interpersonal Skills Development, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Problem-Solving, Solution-Focused, Relationship Strengthening and Building, and Grief / Bereavement. We’ll work together to find the right focus for you.

My communication style

I have a naturally calm, gentle, and empathetic demeanor. But because every person is unique, and some people communicate differently than others, I engage with clients on an individual level using a flexible style that adapts to my clients’ needs. Since participating in counseling and therapy can be a vulnerable and anxiety-inducing experience, it is important to me to create a working relationship and to build rapport with clients in a manner that is consistently genuine, earnest, safe, and trustworthy.

My journey to mental healthcare

I became a therapist after leaving an abusive relationship and then suffering a tragic loss as a single parent. I felt so sad and shattered. I felt like I would never be happy again and like I was going to die. With the support of a wonderful therapist, my family, and other special people, I was able to rebuild and heal. But I wondered how many other people felt like I did? I was inspired to help others climb out of their own dark and lonely places. Today, I feel that surviving my own experience helps me empathize with and support those who may be experiencing sadness, pain, or other battles. If you are wondering if you can recover, or even just feel better, you can! And I would be thrilled to help you. It is okay to take care of you! If you would like to take the next step, please reach out for a free 15-minute consultation. I wish you hope, peace, and happiness!

My goals for you

Goal setting is a critical exercise because your goals are the foundation of our working relationship. Sometimes it can be hard to identify a goal, but like any ability, it is a skill you’ll improve with guidance, practice, and time. Accomplishing a goal, and the journey to do so, answers questions and strengthens resolve for clients who are hoping, searching, and working towards improvement. But it is not for me to say, “these are your goals.” Indeed, goals can be modified, adjusted, or even deleted, depending on your development. My hope is that we’ll work together to identify (or reevaluate) your goals, explore the steps we can take to accomplish them, and monitor your progress along the way.

My first session with you

It is very common and natural to feel nervous or anxious during an initial session. It can seem awkward to try to get to know each other while at the same time dealing with formalities like intake forms, scheduling, etc. Recognizing this, I first try to make you feel welcome and comfortable. Then, I try to weave the formalities into our initial session so that they do not feel as jarring or out of place. We will work on sharing where you are and exploring where you want to go. We will also discuss expectations and planning. I want you to leave feeling hopeful!