FAQs

How long does each therapy session take?

Sessions are usually 45-50 minutes. Longer sessions are billed at a higher rate. 
Initial intake assessments are 60 minutes.

What technique do you use? Do you prescribe medication?

Leslie uses a variety of modalities, treating each client individually for their needs. Leslie is heavily trained in ACT, CBT, and DBT and tends to draw from these practices. Leslie also incorporates mindfulness skills and places emphasis on individual values. Leslie does not prescribe medication as this is out of her scope.

Can you diagnose? What's the difference between a Clinical Social Worker, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist?

Yes - though it is important to know that there is no singular "treatment" for a diagnosis; rather the treatment is tailored to individual clients. A diagnosis can be helpful, but treatment of the symptoms and how they interfere with life functioning is the main focus.
Leslie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, which means she studied mental health and holds a masters degree and state license to practice.
A psychologist also has educational background in mental health and they may do psychotherapy as well as psychological testing.
A psychiatrist holds a medical degree and is typically referred to for medication management and not counseling or therapy services.

How should I prepare for my first session?

Before your first session, you will have completed your consent forms and assessment questionnaire. Please bring any questions about the consent forms, including billing questions. 
Please have a think about goals for therapy before your first session. Ask yourself what you might want life to look and feel like if therapy were to be "successful." Reflect on what matters most to you and what you might be missing out on. These are all areas of focus that Leslie will discuss with you in the first few sessions.