Thank you guys. I prefer to play as healer so I just start giving her presents. Is diplomacy (i need it for my biochem skill) the good way to get gifts?

Hello, So I've just started playing male Commando healer and I have one question about Elara. Is she useful for helaer? Because i really really want have a love affair with her and lvling with companion is the best way to unlock romance option am I right?