Elizabeth Swift, M.A. LPC: My Journey from DelVal Student to Private Practice Owner
When applying to graduate programs, I was looking for a school that emphasized both academic excellence and real-world application. What stood out to me about DelVal was its commitment to small class sizes, individualized attention, and a strong sense of community. I appreciated that the Counseling Psychology program focused not only on theory but also on practical, hands-on experience, which was essential for developing my clinical skills. Additionally, the faculty’s dedication to student success and the program’s emphasis on a client-centered approach aligned with my own values as a therapist.
My Journey
Since graduating from DelVal, I have achieved a significant career milestone by opening my own private practice, Sage & Bloom Wellness, in 2022. My practice is rooted in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating trauma-informed therapy, nervous system rewiring, and alternative healing modalities to support my clients’ well-being. Additionally, I have expanded my reach by becoming licensed in multiple states, allowing me to work with a broader range of individuals seeking transformative healing.
My professional journey has been one of continuous growth and expansion. Most recently, I integrated nutritional services into my practice by bringing on a nutritionist, allowing me to offer a more comprehensive, whole-person approach to healing. This addition aligns with my belief that mental health is deeply connected to physical well-being, and it has given my clients access to deeper healing through the integration of mind and body. I’m excited to continue evolving my practice in ways that empower clients to heal on every level.
The DelVal Experience
The faculty at DelVal played a pivotal role in my development as a clinician. I had the opportunity to present at the Association for Women in Psychology conference in 2016 with Dr. Audrey Ervin, which deepened my understanding of gender and social justice issues in psychology. I also attended multiple American Counseling Association conferences alongside faculty members, where I engaged with emerging research and best practices in the field.
One of the most influential mentors on my journey is Dr. Mindi Raggi, who not only served as a professor but also as my supervisor for licensure. Her guidance helped shape my career, particularly in the areas of trauma work and supporting individuals from marginalized backgrounds, including sexual minorities and those in alternative lifestyles. Her insight, compassion, and dedication to this field have had a profound impact on me, and I am deeply grateful for her mentorship.
My Current Position
I’m the owner of Sage & Bloom Wellness, the private practice I founded in 2022. In my role, I provide trauma-informed therapy, incorporating modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting.
DelVal played a key role in preparing me for this path by providing a strong foundation in counseling skills, ethics, and client-centered care. The faculty’s support and the hands-on training I received helped me develop the confidence to create a practice aligned with my values.
I truly love what I do. Helping clients heal and transform their lives is incredibly rewarding, and I’m grateful to have built a practice that allows me to approach therapy in a comprehensive and meaningful way.
Internships at DelVal
I completed my practicum and internship at Eagleville Hospital in Eagleville, Pennsylvania, a residential rehabilitation center. During my time there, I gained invaluable experience working with individuals struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. This experience deepened my understanding of the complex relationship between trauma and substance use, reinforcing the importance of trauma-informed care in the healing process.
One of my key takeaways was the importance of addressing the root causes of addiction rather than just the symptoms. I also learned how to create a safe, supportive space for clients to process their experiences, which has greatly influenced my work today. My time at Eagleville shaped my clinical approach and strengthened my passion for helping clients heal on a deeper level.
Advice
For those starting graduate school or seeking advancement in the field of counseling, my biggest advice is to stay curious, open, and committed to your own personal growth. This work isn’t just about learning techniques—it’s about deepening your self-awareness so you can show up fully for your clients.
I also encourage students to seek out diverse experiences, whether that’s through internships, conferences, or additional trainings in specialized modalities. The more you explore, the better you’ll understand what resonates with you as a clinician.
And finally, don’t be afraid to create your own path. Whether you want to work in private practice, community mental health, or a nontraditional setting, there is space for you in this field. Trust your instincts, stay grounded in your values, and remember that your work has the power to change lives—including your own.
