Meet Brenda

Hello and thank you for your interest in getting to know a little more about me, my beliefs, and my practice!

I believe we are all worthy and capable of living fulfilling and joyful lives. We sometime just don't know how to do that on our own. I am passionate about helping you figure that out.

My approach is based on collaboration, we are in this together! I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship, anchored in empathy and respect, while providing a space that is safe, inspiring, and healing.

While treatment is tailored to each individual and their unique circumstances and needs, I typically work on two separate but related dimension of therapy. Firstly, we develop coping strategies that work for you, right now. Secondly, we discover more about you, such as; what's important to you? what are you feeling? who are you? and how did you get here? With answers to these questions and many, many more and with tailored coping skills, you will begin to develop greater self-awareness, confidence, and self-empowerment!

Brenda Marie LeShay, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #133786

My Story

Prior to my career as a psychotherapist, I was an early childhood educator. It was within this expansive experience that I developed a desire to have a deeper impact on the lives of others. I decided I wanted to do more than educate, I want to help people attain healthy and fulfilling lives.

After attending the University of Southern California's, Marriage and Family Therapy program, I worked in various mental health settings, while simultaneously starting my private practice. I worked in a community mental health center, in a school as a counselor, and at a drug and alcohol treatment center. While in these agencies and in private practice, I gained experience working with adolescents and adults dealing with trauma, alcohol/drug use, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, eating issues, religious trauma, sexual exploration, phase-of-life transitions, and body image struggles. And with this experience, I realized one of the most effective ways to help is through self-exploration and a deeper understand of the relationship dynamics in our lives.

In addition to my graduate education and experience in community mental health settings, I am trained in Mindfulness meditation, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, Emotion Focused Therapy, and The Gottman Method - Level 1.

As a therapist and former educator, I strive to continue to learn and grow. And I believe as human beings we all grow through our connections with each other. Let's grow together! Call me to see if we are a good fit.