My Approach to Helping
I have seen how the powerful process of psychotherapy helps people cope with life challenges and find inner strength. Therapy reduces the symptoms of depression, suffering and anxiety and promotes resilience. Additionally it helps improve communication and understanding in relationships. Effective psychotherapy elicits change and guides people toward living more authentically. I realize that people often seek help at their most vulnerable times. I am aware of of this as I guide my clients toward a better understanding of themselves and their inner world, thereby allowing for emotional growth, peace and the attainment of personal goals.
My current practice includes a variety of clientele including adult individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties. I also work with couples, adolescents and children. I have special expertise in working with members of the adoption triad: adoptees, adoptive parents and birth parents. Additionally, as a current Executive Supervisor of the nationally recognized Maple Center's Crisis Response Team, I have extensive experience working with issues of grief, loss and trauma.
Personal therapy is a unique collaboration between the therapist and the client(s). I work from a relational framework, often utilizing mindfulness based approaches in my practice. I consider how individuals are affected by their environments, past and present experiences and the interplay between the mind and the body. I nurture a trusting relationship in my practice where patients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I will contribute my knowledge, skills and the willingness to do my very best. Your commitment to the process will also be an important contributing factor in our work together.
More Info About My Practice
SERVICES OFFERED:
Individual Therapy:
Individual therapy generally takes place once a week for 50 minutes although the frequency and length of session may vary depending on treatment needs. 75 and 100-minute sessions are also available.
Couples Therapy:
Couples therapy sessions generally occur weekly for a 75-minute session. The frequency of meetings may vary depending on treatment needs.
Family, Child and Adolescent Therapy:
Family, child and adolescent therapy generally takes place once a week for a 45-50 minute session depending on the age of the child and treatment needs.
Group Therapy for the Adoption Community:
Group therapy provides a unique dynamic and supportive setting to work through difficult issues alongside others facing similar situations. Group therapy is offered for all members of the adoption triad: adoptees, birthparents and adoptive parents. The groups are offered multiple times during the year and generally meet 2 hours weekly, for 8 weeks.
Parenting Classes:
Individual and group classes are offered. The completed class fulfills court mandated parenting therapy. Frequency and time varies, depending on requirement. The groups are offered multiple times during the year and generally meet 2 hours weekly, for 8 weeks. Parenting from the Inside Out by Dan Siegel and Mary Hartzell is highly suggested reading for all those attending parenting classes.
Consulting Services:
Lesli offers a variety of consulting services for businesses in transition to support employees and prevent work-place anxiety during times of transition. Lesli is also available to consult with newly licensed therapists to help them grow their private practices.
In-Home Sessions:
In-home therapy can be helpful for women suffering from postpartum depression and families acclimating to a new baby in the home. Clients with chronic illnesses that do not allow them mobility to attend weekly office sessions may also benefit from In-home sessions. Additionally, in-home consults can be utilized as an adjunct when working with children and teens to assist with transitions, developmental and school issues.
Phone and Internet Sessions:
Flexible times are available for clients who travel often or are unable to attend regular office sessions. (Phone and Internet sessions are provided only after initial intake information has been gathered in person.)
Clinical Supervision for MFT Interns:
Weekly supervision provided for MFT interns who are working toward their hours.
I offer convenient day and evening appointments in both Beverly Hills and Pasadena locations.
It is easiest to reach me directly by phone at 310.614.1867. I generally am able to return calls within a few hours however will always get back to you within 24 hours. You can also reach me via email at
[email protected]
I have beeper access in the case of emergencies however if clients experience a life-threatening emergency, they should call 911.