Therapist Spotlight: Meet Leslie
Therapist Spotlight: Meet Leslie! Leslie works with individuals and couples, using Family Systems Theory, Emotional Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Get to know a little more about Leslie:
What are you interested in that most people haven’t heard of?
I am thoroughly fascinated with shuffle dancing. I came across this a few years ago and now the algorithm puts it in my feed all the time! If you want to know what I’m talking about, look up shufflemamas.com---doesn’t that look fun? ;-)
What’s the farthest you’ve ever been from home?
I went to Alaska for a mission trip years ago. Still USA but pretty different than my life in PA. Also have been to Haiti, which was a vastly different way of life—so much struggle, so much trauma, yet so much joy in the children we served.
What’s the best way to start your day?
I love to get up early before anyone else and have a slow start to my day—coffee, reading my Bible, journaling at times and often reading a bit of another encouraging book.
Favorite dessert?
Peanut butter pie…preferably with a graham cracker crust and chunks of Reese’s PB cups on top. Next best would be homemade cookies! I love many different kinds, especially my mom’s Christmas cookies or almost any soft and chewy cookies!
What hobby would you get into if time and money weren’t an issue?
If time and money weren’t an issue, I would travel more and visit all the National Parks. Or I would spend more time biking, kayaking, and paddle boarding anywhere and everywhere-----well, not where there are ginormous snakes or alligators.
What risks are worth taking?
I believe being vulnerable in relationships and creating space for people to be known are risks worth taking. Yes, we are hurt in relationships but we can find joy and grow exponentially in healthy relationships. Being willing to be vulnerable opens us up to being hurt by others but it also can set the stage for truly fulfilling life!
What do you like most about your family?
I like that my family can laugh together and keep showing up for each other through all of life’s ups and downs. Also, over the years, we have each prioritized serving and loving others—both inside and outside of our family. I love that!
What do you love most about working with clients?
I love to hear people’s stories of all they have overcome across the span of their lives! People often have such a strong will to keep going through adversity that amazes me. I really love being a part of supporting clients as they take steps necessary to build the lives they want and transform through the healing power of Jesus.
When people come to you for help, what do they usually want help with?
No one comes to me for help with car repair or tech questions…I’m relatively useless in those areas, however, they often come to me when they are struggling with relational issues, for encouragement through life’s struggles, or when they just need someone to listen to them without judgment.
