Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Elizabeth
Liz Cross Bayless is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 13 years of experience in various clinical settings. Her post-graduate work initially involved supporting individuals diagnosed with traumatic brain injury, providing primarily case management support. Liz also worked in a hospital and outpatient primary care clinic setting providing assessment, counseling, and immediate emotional/crisis support to patients within the facility and clinic. Additionally, Liz has experience providing counseling support through private practice and working in care coordination and case management roles.
Liz earned her Master of Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. She utilizes approaches based on client needs that may include emotionally focused counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based techniques.
Liz aims to first understand your concerns, symptoms, and the specific challenges that led you to seek counseling. From there, you will work together to learn new skills, improve communication, and achieve your goals through healing and growth. Schedule your first appointment today!

"Welcome! I offer a peaceful, safe, and non-judgmental space to talk and process your experiences. I want to support you on your healing journey."
Get to know Elizabeth
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I've always been drawn to helping and empowering people to reach the best version of themselves. I'm a person that enjoys listening and getting to know people on a deeper level. I genuinely value connecting with people on a level that fosters support, healing, and growth. My desire to help people led me down the path of becoming a therapist.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I am passionate about working with adults and senior populations. Our working relationship will be collaborative, where we will work together to address and process concerns and experiences. Clients who are willing to put in the effort, invest in our session time, and be open to learning and practicing new things outside of session are always a good fit.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
All adults and senior clients are welcome! I'm most excited to work with a range of clients including those experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, insomnia/sleep concerns, and parenting/relationship concerns.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
It's inevitable that life will bring us through various ups and downs, the need to adapt and change, and oftentimes the need to work through various challenges. Counseling is a safe place to seek out support. You are not weak or flawed if you seek out therapy; instead, therapy will be empowering and you will be taking a courageous first step toward your personal healing and growth.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I currently work in a healthcare setting where I don't have the opportunity to work directly with clients in a therapeutic counseling role. Thriveworks provides the flexibility for me to provide counseling that will work with my schedule. I appreciate the option to work remotely or in person depending on client needs.
What inspires you?
Practicing kindness, selfcare, working with and getting to know various people within my community are all inspiring. I'm equally inspired by music, reading books, learning through new trainings/education and my faith.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
In our first session, we will get to know each other and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about my experience and background as you see fit. We will discuss general expectations of the counseling process and what may be your personal expectations with counseling. We will discuss my approach to counseling and what a typical session will look like. I will provide time for you to ask questions or bring up any concerns you may have about me as a therapist or the counseling process in general. Most importantly, I want our sessions to be a safe supportive space for you to feel open to discussing why your seeking counseling. This process will help determine if we are a good fit.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
The most important thing I want us to accomplish in our first session is establishing a safe, non-judgmental, accepting, kind, respectful, and comfortable space where you feel free to discuss your concerns and why your seeking therapy support.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
As a therapist, I can't fix, change, or resolve things for you. What I can do is provide a space for us to work together to collaboratively address your concerns. It's helpful to think of a therapist as a guide. As a guide, I can help you to navigate through various obstacles and help teach you how to overcome the obstacle(s). Therapy may be uncomfortable at times as you may discuss distressing and challenging topics. This is expected and part of the healing process. The therapy process is different for everyone, some clients may take more time than others to open up and feel comfortable. Being patient with this process is important.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy spending time outdoors, cooking, and time with my family. I am an animal lover and enjoy spending time with my fur babies too! I enjoy reading, music, playing the piano, theatre, and travel.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 13 years
- Graduating institute
- New Mexico Highlands University.
- Graduating degree
- Master of Social Work.
