Chelsea Ellington

My Story

After more than a decade spent alongside people in moments of profound vulnerability and resilience, my path led me to the field of therapy. My years as a nurse shaped how I think about death and grief, power and advocacy, and the healing potential of a strong therapeutic relationship. I became a therapist to sit with people in the complexity of their experiences and to explore purpose, pain, and the forces that shape our choices.

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Connecticut (2011) and have worked as a bedside nurse for 13 years. I am currently completing my graduate training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lenoir-Rhyne University.

My approach is collaborative and direct. I don’t shy away from tough topics. I welcome clients who are working through deeply personal or culturally complicated questions. I’m especially passionate about working with individuals and families impacted by life-threatening illness, people feeling unsure about having children, and those balancing multiple cultural identities or adjusting to life in a new culture.

When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me riding my bike, diving into a complicated cooking project, or practicing Spanish. These practices keep me grounded, curious, and connected to the world. I hope our work together supports you in discovering what offers that for you.

I specialize in:

• Life transitions

• Life-Threatening Illness, grief, and medical trauma

• Caregiver stress and burnout

• Immigrant and bicultural identity

• Adjusting to a new culture

• Parenthood ambivalence support