Keith Elias, LCSW, LICSW

We already have one thing in common. We are both human beings. Our illnesses or struggles do not define us. Let us explore the cards we have been dealt in an effort to find purpose and meaning in our lives.
*In-person & video sessions- NJ
*Video sessions for IL & MA.

My desire to become a Social Worker began when I was 12 years old. The Counselor at our school was also our basketball coach. He often smiled, appearing to have fun with my peers. During road trips, I had the chance to get to know more about him. Essentially, I decided I wanted to be him one day. However, at the time, I wanted to be a Veterinarian. Unfortunately (or fortunately), Biology did not agree with me to the extent needed! As a result, my love of animals did not give way, but my desire to become a Social Worker gave in. The rest followed. I obtained my Master of Social Work in 2007 from The University of Illinois at Chicago - Jane Addams College of Social Work, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the first time in my home state of IL in 2011, where I maintain an active license. I am also licensed in MA (LICSW), & NJ (LCSW). I like to limit, "therapist lingo," in my sessions in order to accommodate various learning styles and need.

I began my career working at an outpatient mental health clinic in Compton, CA in 2007, and then moved back to IL where I continued as a School Social Worker. Since 2012, I have been working with dialysis patients and those experiencing chronic illness. Issues resulting from medical conditions often include: grief & loss, family conflict, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss of routine and/or job, trauma, loss of identify, & more. In my work with these populations, I processed their feelings regarding the changes, how to incorporate the changes, while working with them to prevent their entire lives from BEING these changes. In 2021 and 2022 I began focusing my studies on trauma, as well as grief and loss.

I am an advocate for those who struggle or were not fortunate enough to have certain life privileges, and believe in doing/saying what is right despite pushback from large corporations or other entities. Social justice issues are important to me. I have no tolerance for hate/discrimination of any kind, or my clients being taken advantage of. Having a heart can go a long way towards making a positive difference in even just one person. I believe in staying true to who you are.

Outside of work, I am a lifelong Chicago Bulls fan, and believe our day will come again! I adopted the LA Clippers while living in Southern California. I love animals (especially dogs), going for walks, watching movies, playing/watching basketball, & I am learning piano!