Meet Elinor Bawnik | Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Head Therapist and Supervisor)

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

Hi Elinor, what matters most to you?
Connection, in all its forms, is my highest value. I thrive on fostering meaningful relationships—whether it’s matching clients with the right therapist, deepening my connections with clients, colleagues, friends, and family, or simply being present for those who need support. I feel energized by the exchange of ideas, emotions, and experiences, and I consider it a profound privilege to be invited into someone’s personal world. It is an honor to be the person others turn to in moments of hardship, celebration, or self-discovery. This deep commitment to connection is why I run my practice in a way that extends beyond traditional boundaries—whether that means going beyond the allotted session time when necessary, offering phone coaching, or diving into additional research to better support my clients. Connection isn’t just part of my work; it’s my purpose.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been in the mental health field for over 13 years, working in diverse settings, including psychiatric hospitals, high schools, homeless services, case management, and PHP/IOP mental health programs. I was also a program manager at a residential facility. I have worked with teens, adults, families, and couples, gaining firsthand experience with a wide range of challenges and therapeutic needs. Beyond my clinical work, I have lived in different countries with vastly opposing cultural norms and traveled the world in pursuit of a broader, more anthropological perspective on human behavior.
Finding my niche wasn’t easy—I wanted to do everything and help everyone. But through time and experience, I had to navigate the difficult process of managing expectations. These diverse experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the many ways people think, live, and make sense of the world. Today, I primarily work with couples and individuals, specializing in OCD, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. I have a strong interest in relationship dynamics, including boundaries, cultural differences, sex positivity, and kink-aware therapy.
I also have the pleasure of supervising the amazing Megan Adamson, who brings a strong focus to her work with adult couples and individuals navigating relationship challenges, OCD, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. Megan is particularly skilled in supporting clients as they re-enter society following structured environments such as college, incarceration, rehab, or military service.

It’s a joy to support her as she grows her practice. Megan stands out for her deep curiosity and her ability to think creatively and compassionately, guiding clients toward resilience and meaningful self-exploration.

Many therapists, from a place of care, may push clients toward their goals or potential. However, I believe in truly meeting clients where they are—working within their current perspectives, limitations, and strengths to help them carve out their own unique path. This is why my approach is deeply collaborative and personal.
Like anyone, I’ve done my own internal work—examining my past, my self-judgment, and the external pressures that shape us (because, hey, I’m human too). That journey has solidified my belief that therapy should be tailored to the client, adapting to their needs, language, and worldview. I don’t believe in “resistant” or “difficult” clients—only clinicians who need to pause, adjust, and pivot. I know I won’t “fix” anyone, but I can stand beside my clients as they learn about themselves and create change aligned with their values and goals.
I’m also deeply passionate about passing this perspective on to my associates and learning from them in return. I want to help shape better therapists—clinicians I can trust, who I know will provide thoughtful, effective care to those who need it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love this question! After living in LA for 10 years, I’ve developed a deep love for this city and the incredible diversity it offers. When my best friend visits, I’d want to spend time by a pool, catch up with friends, and explore different parts of the city.
We might start with a trip to the beaches in Malibu, stroll through Abbot Kinney or Little Tokyo, and stop by the Korean Cultural Center on Wilshire. I love visiting the Larchmont Farmers Market, having a picnic at the old Griffith Park Zoo, or heading out for live music at spots like Black Rabbit Rose, The Dresden, Zula Den, Golddiggers, or Seven Grand. Zula Den, owned by friends of mine, is a special place offering live music, creative classes, and holistic healing experiences like yoga, sound baths, and jewelry-making.
For nightlife, I enjoy speakeasy bars and breweries such as All Season Brewery, R Bar, Sunset & Vinyl, Death & Co, Roger Room, and if I’m in the mood to dance, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang or Break Room 86. Barcades like Blipsy Bar and rooftops like Desert 5 are also favorites.
Brunch is a must—some of my go-to spots are Met Her at a Bar, Sqirl, Laurel Tavern, Sycamore Kitchen, and Republique. For restaurants, I love Tatsu Ramen, Sushi by Scratch, Iki Nori, Wirtshaus, Jitlada, Mizlala, Dr. Sandwich, Tu Madre, and Pho Show. If time allows, we might take a weekend trip to Joshua Tree or a day trip to Ojai.
Exploring the Arts District is always a great idea, especially with its galleries and amazing food at places like Bavel and Manuela. For something a little different, I’d consider axe throwing at Swordplay LA, archery, or visiting the Thai market at Wat Thai.
There’s always something new and exciting to do in LA—the possibilities never end!

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 want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible clinicians who have shaped me into the therapist I am today. My supervisor, Lila Galustian, instilled in me a deep understanding of DBT and the complexities of working with more challenging populations. Samantha Wakach expanded my perspective on couples and family therapy, teaching me to embrace my direct nature as a strength in the therapy room. Christopher Mulligan introduced me to ACT, shifting both my therapeutic approach and the way I see the world.
I’m also immensely grateful for my PCH crew—colleagues who have become like family. And, not to be cliché, but I truly admire Esther Perel. Her work constantly inspires me, whether through her innovative use of language or her bold, irreverent interventions.
There have been far too many colleagues and friends to name who have influenced me and helped shape my approach to therapy, and I am beyond grateful for all of them. And of course, a huge shoutout to my clients—I learn from them every single day. The work we do together continues to challenge and inspire me in ways I could never have imagined.

Website: https://www.eb-flowtherapy.com

Instagram: ElinorLMFT

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elinor-b-12814b75/

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