We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Basso and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Balance has definitely evolved over time. Early on, I thought success meant doing everything and doing it perfectly — which left me drained. Now, I focus on aligning my energy with what truly matters, carving out time for rest, reflection, and connection. I see balance as dynamic: it shifts depending on work, life, and priorities, and that flexibility helps me show up fully in both.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I founded Elevé Therapy & Co to create a space where high achievers, perfectionists, and people pleasers can find balance, clarity, and resilience without sacrificing their ambition. While we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of mental health care, we have always leaned on authenticity first. We truly believe that rapport and the therapeutic relationship are among the biggest predictors of our clients’ success, and we will never sacrifice these core principles — even in an industry increasingly influenced by venture-backed therapy companies.

I’m most proud of the team culture we’ve built — therapists who share a dedication to humanistic, values-driven care and who support each other as much as we support our clients. Seeing clients gain clarity, build resilience, and reclaim their lives is what excites me most.

Building a practice outside the VC model wasn’t easy. It required patience, persistence, and learning to navigate everything from insurance and compliance to marketing — all while staying aligned with my core values: clarity, balance, and authenticity. Mentors, colleagues, and reflective practice guided me through challenges.

The lessons I’ve learned: success isn’t just output or growth; it’s about impact, integrity, and connection. My hope is that Elevé Therapy & Co stands as proof that therapy can optimize life, cultivate presence, and help people thrive — all while staying true to your values.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Moving to San Diego from LA County 2 years ago, I still can’t believe I get to live in such a beautiful city! If my best friend was visiting for a week, we’d start with some beach days — Windansea is a must for its gorgeous coastline and surf vibes. Then we’d head over to El Pescador Fish Market in La Jolla for the freshest seafood; the calamari steak and grilled octopus are my favorites.

San Diego’s fitness culture is amazing, so we’d fit in a few fun workouts — maybe a yoga or pilates class — and explore La Jolla Coastal Trail. For nights out, I love exploring Little Italy for dinner and drinks.

We’d also check out the local coffee spots, farmers markets, and hidden scenic viewpoints around the city. San Diego has this perfect balance of outdoor adventure, wellness, and great food, so I’d make sure my friend experienced a little bit of everything — sun, surf, movement, and of course, some amazing eats.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m so grateful to have had amazing, influential supervisors and mentors over the years who helped me develop my authentic way of being a therapist. They taught me to trust the art of therapy and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. Their guidance shaped who I am as a clinician and instilled values like clarity, balance, presence, and empathy – lessons I now carry forward as a supportive supervisor for my pre-licensed therapists.

I’m also inspired by my colleagues at Elevé Therapy & Co, whose dedication to helping high achievers find balance motivates me daily. And, of course, my clients – their courage and commitment to doing the hard inner work continually remind me why I love this work.

Website: https://www.elevetherapyco.com

Instagram: @elevetherapyco

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericabasso/

Image Credits
Jean Biele

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