Kurt W Ela Psy.D.

About

Kurt Ela, Psy.D., is an associate professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University School of Medicine. He works with patients throughout the life cycle from children and adolescents to elders. Considered a generalist, Ela assists high-school and college students with academic-related stress; patients with serious mental illness; C-suite executives from various fields; and professional athletes. Other areas of focus include grief and loss, depression, and group therapy, which he teaches at Georgetown.

Ela received his BA from Amherst College and his doctorate from The George Washington University. He completed his internship at the University of Pennsylvania where he worked with pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients.

Recent Posts

What Being an Elite Athlete Taught Me About Life

Being an elite athlete, or the parent of an elite athlete, can be rewarding and exciting. Although most players will not become professionals, the lessons can last a lifetime.

How to Prepare for Navigating Disney World With Kids

For a family trip to Disney World to be a success, preparation is essential—and will be rewarded with special family memories.

In Praise of Anticipation

Waiting is a part of the human experience. While it can be difficult, it is important to realize that anticipation of future events can be a meaningful part of the process.

Let Your Children Be Bored

We dread the experience of our children being bored. We try to entertain them, but in doing so, we deny them the opportunity to tolerate and find creative solutions on their own.

Why Everyone Is Telling You to Be Grateful

If something is relatively easy, can boost positive feeling, potentially improve your physical health, and capture memories of your life, you would do it, right? Enter gratitude.

Not All Goals Are Created Equal

While it is important to have goals, the type of goal can make a huge difference. Some goals may promote well-being while others deter well-being. Which are you focusing on?

Why I Prescribe Nature

An excellent source of health and wellness is right outside our front door. Even in urban settings, it is crucial to find ways to engage in nature as it is protective in many ways.

4 Surprising Conditions Linked to Depression

Sometimes the cause of our depression is not what we think it is. Several conditions have been linked to worsening mood and anxiety.

Your Neighbor May Be a Psychopath. Don’t Lose Sleep Over It

Did you ever wonder whether your neighbor might be a psychopath? The likelihood is higher than you think.

Pain Is Ubiquitous; Suffering Doesn't Have to Be

Many individuals live with chronic pain. This can result in depression, anxiety, and disability. Fortunately, there are some steps we can take to combat its impact.