Prescriber Spotlight: Elinor O'Buckley

Elinor’s journey into mental health wasn’t a straight line—it was shaped by personal struggles, deep curiosity, and a relentless drive to help others.

Having lived in Mexico and Romania growing up, she developed an early appreciation for how different cultures view mental health.

Over time, she saw firsthand how stigma affects people seeking help and made it her mission to create a judgment-free, empathetic space for healing.

Her background spans multiple disciplines—from cultural anthropology to medical massage therapy to nursing—giving her a holistic approach to mental health that prioritizes both mind and body.

Whether you’re new to therapy or have tried multiple treatments without success, Elinor is here to help you find what truly works for you.

What Can You Expect From Working With Elinor?

1. A Mental Health Professional Who Knows the Journey Firsthand

Elinor understands what it’s like to navigate mental health struggles personally.

She has treatment-resistant depression herself and has tried multiple antidepressants over 24 years.

Some treatments worked, some didn’t. But through perseverance, she found what helps her, and she’s committed to helping you do the same.

“Many options may need to be tried and failed before you find the ones that work for you individually. I know firsthand how frustrating and exhausting that process can be—but I also know that healing is possible.”

Her personal experience has taught her that mental health treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all.

She works with patients to explore various evidence-based and holistic approaches, ensuring they feel supported at every step.

2. Creating a Safe, Judgment-Free Space

Elinor also knows what it’s like to experience fear and vulnerability in the face of trauma.

Having survived an abusive relationship, she deeply values the importance of a safe, non-judgmental space where people feel heard and understood.

“The idea of leaving was terrifying and dangerous. It took courage, support, and time. That experience shaped how I practice today—because I know firsthand that healing happens when people feel safe, supported, and never judged.”

3. A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Elinor’s background in anthropology, dance, massage therapy, and nursing has given her a unique perspective on how mental health and physical health are deeply connected.

• She integrates mind-body practices like mindfulness, movement, and hydrotherapy into treatment.

• She advocates for gratitude practices and self-care routines that strengthen emotional resilience.

• She listens first and collaborates with patients to find what works best for their individual needs.

4. A Passion for Stigma Reduction and Mental Health Advocacy

Throughout her career—whether working in hospitals, home healthcare, or behavioral health—Elinor has seen the damaging effects of stigma on people seeking help.

“Stigma keeps people from getting the care they need. It exists in every area of healthcare, and it’s my mission to break those barriers so that people feel safe asking for help.”

She is particularly passionate about how stigma affects treatment outcomes and access to care, and she ensures that every patient feels respected, valued, and empowered.

5. Breaking Barriers in Mental Health Research

Elinor believes there is still so much we don’t know about behavioral health. She’s particularly interested in under-researched areas, including:

• The mechanisms of action behind mental health treatments

• The quantifiable impact of stigma on health outcomes

• The effectiveness of holistic and alternative interventions

She stays up to date with the latest research and ensures her patients have access to both evidence-based treatments and innovative approaches that fit their needs.

6. The Power of Hydrotherapy and Other Unexpected Tools

“I started hydrotherapy as part of a school assignment and kept going because it worked. It reduced my baseline anxiety and helped manage my panic disorder in ways I didn’t expect.”

Elinor is always open to new, effective approaches and helps her patients explore treatments they may not have considered before.

7. Encouraging Mindfulness and Gratitude Practices

If there’s one thing Elinor wishes more people would do, it’s to practice mindfulness and gratitude.

• Mindfulness helps regulate stress, increase focus, and foster self-compassion.

• Gratitude practices shift focus from what’s wrong to what’s working, building resilience.

• Activities that strengthen the mind-body connection can profoundly impact overall well-being.

8. Redefining Success: The Power of Boundaries and Self-Care

Like many people, Elinor used to define success in terms of achievement and productivity. Today, her perspective has shifted.

“I now understand that real success is about setting clear boundaries, taking care of my mental health, and making time for the things that bring me joy.”

For her, that means making time for her family, practicing Pilates, and even binge-watching sci-fi series as a form of self-care!

9. Beyond Work: Passion Projects and Creative Outlets

Elinor believes creativity is an important part of mental wellness.

In her free time, she enjoys fiber arts and is currently working on macramé projects.

Finding joy in creative expression is a mental health tool she encourages her patients to explore.

10. A Book She Recommends to Everyone

Elinor believes that mental health isn’t just about clinical treatment—it’s also about the narratives we tell ourselves.

That’s why she recommends Ferdinand the Bull, a children’s book with profound life lessons.

“Ferdinand teaches us that peace and gentleness are valid choices. You don’t have to fight every battle or live up to other people’s expectations to be strong.”

You Deserve Compassionate, Individualized Care

If you’ve struggled to find a provider who listens, understands, and genuinely cares about your journey, Elinor O’Buckley is here for you.

Whether you’re battling depression, anxiety, trauma, or the weight of stigma, she offers a safe, non-judgmental space to explore healing at your own pace.

Mental health care should never feel intimidating. With Elinor, it’s about collaboration, compassion, and finding the right approach that fits you.

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule an appointment today and start your journey toward healing with a provider who truly gets it.