Professionals Who Care

At Safe Harbor Counseling Center our Christian staff personally understands the Christ-centered, biblical values that Christians are living by. However our therapists work with clients from ANY faith or background and would never attempt to impose Christian beliefs on anyone. Safe Harbor Counseling Center is a safe destination for ALL. Our therapists are not only caring but are dedicated to providing you with quality service.

Elaine M. romero, LMFT
owner & clinical DIRECTOR
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST #LMFT38237

951.252.8411 #3001
elaine.romero@shcounseling.org

Elaine is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the Owner/ Clinical Director of Safe Harbor Counseling Center. Elaine has worked as a clinical psychotherapist and professional speaker for over 29 years. Elaine feels blessed to receive referrals and endorsements from pastors, pediatricians, and school administrators all throughout the Inland Valley Empire. She is humbled that Rancho Community Church recognizes her practice Safe Harbor Counseling Center, as a partner ministry. However, Elaine receives referrals and works with clients from many other professionals, schools, doctors and churches in the Inland Valley as well. As a clinical supervisor, Elaine enjoys guiding associates who are striving to become licensed psychotherapists.

Elaine completed her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Family Studies, from the University of Arizona in 1993. She achieved her Masters of Arts degree from the accredited Marriage, and Family Therapy program at the University of San Diego in 1996. She acquired her PPS school counseling credential in 1998. In 1997, Elaine was the founding president of the San Diego chapter of the California Association for Play Therapy. She has been a member of CAMFT, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists for 29 years. Elaine is a graduate of She Speaks training through Proverbs 31 Ministries followed by individual coaching as a speaker with Next Step Speakers Services. Over the years Elaine has trained in a variety of modalities such as but not limited to: Play therapy, Art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Complex Trauma and more.

Elaine enjoys working with all types of clients. She works with individuals, couples, adolescents and children. Elaine’s style is both caring and compassionate. As a believer, Elaine understands the Christ- like model and morals Christians are trying to live by. If requested, she integrates God’s truths and promises with leading research on healthy functioning in marriage, parenting and family relationships. However, Elaine is experienced and willing to work with clients from any faith and background. She would never attempt to impose Christian beliefs onto those who were not open to it. Elaine’s office is equipped with a wide range of toys, books, sand tray materials, and numerous art supplies. Children love Elaine’s office! In fact, two little mice figurines happen to live in her office and children love to hunt for these little guys as they move to new hiding spots each week.

As a professional speaker, Elaine has delivered the keynote seminar in a variety of settings such as marriage retreats, women’s Christmas Teas, MOPS groups, webinars and school functions. On occasion, Elaine has had the honor to deliver a Sunday message at Rancho Community Church as one of their teaching pastors. Elaine is the co-host along with her husband, Abe Romero, of two marriage podcasts, Love is In the Air ( supporting commuter marriages and long distance relationships) and Marriage is a Joke: The FUN Marriage Podcast!

Her speaking and teaching style is energetic and funny, but it also displays her professional expertise in marriage, parenting, and family relationships. Please ask Elaine for a list of her current seminar titles or check out her podcasts on most major podcast platforms. Overall, Elaine feels blessed to help all types of families in our community. She believes it is truly an honor and her calling to equip families to build healthy homes and leave lasting legacies. 

Elaine and her husband Abe have four children together. Elaine has young adults and her husband has adolescent twins. Their blended family life is hectic at times but also full of joy and laughter!