Randall Leonard, MSW

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) is an approach to psychotherapy that places a central focus on emotions and their role in human functioning. In my experience, emotions have been given a particularly bad rap. Many of us have experienced the results of negative emotional interaction, but how many of us have learned what exactly our emotions are? Healthy emotions assist us with setting and holding boundaries, seeing new perspectives, building relationships, and protecting us. Emotions are the radar that alerts us to injustice and have been the passion behind civil rights movements. My mission as a therapist is to help people understand how their core behaviors interact with their emotions. When considering EFT from a decolonized and racial healing justice perspective, the emphasis includes addressing the unique challenges and experiences that individuals from historically marginalized and racialized communities may face. My practice prioritizes the exploration and validation of emotions related to racial and cultural identity, systemic oppression, and the impact of historical trauma. This approach recognizes the influence of colonial histories, power imbalances, and systemic injustices on individuals' emotional well-being.

Racial trauma treatment

I have significant experience with the many ways that complex racial trauma may represent, and I have dedicated my practice to healing, liberating, and empowering individuals from communities that have been historically marginalized and racialized. I actively work against perpetuating oppressive dynamics within the therapeutic relationship and focus on how to support clients in resisting and challenging oppressive structures in their environment. My primary focus is on creating a brave space for clients to express and explore emotions related to racial and cultural identity, acknowledging the impact of racism and discrimination may have had on their mental wellness. I specialize in utilizing therapeutic interventions that aim to empower clients to navigate and resist systemic oppression, fostering a sense of agency in the face of racial trauma. I practice from a perspective recognizing the intersectionality of identities, and how multiple aspects of an individual's identity (race, gender, sexuality, etc.) intersect and contribute to their emotional experiences. Depending on the needs of the client, this may also involve exploring historical traumas and their intergenerational impact, and understanding how past events contribute to present-day emotional struggles. My experience includes learning liberation models with Kindred Wellness and “Decolonizing Therapy for Black Folk” and the Therapy That Liberates network, where I also provide instruction to other therapists unique history and culture of Queer folx. My role as a therapist founded in social work is both to provide individual, relationship, and group therapy to clients on their healing journey, but also to assist with building healing “villages” and networks connecting other racial justice practitioners with a variety of healing practices. This focus beyond individual healing addresses the importance of community and collective healing, and acknowledges the interconnectedness of individuals within broader social contexts.

Gender-affirming therapy

I specialize in the support and care for the diverse experiences and identities within the adult gender spectrum. I have years of experience assisting clients better understand their gender identities and expressions, including those who have transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming identities. I focus on practicing from a perspective of gender euphoria, and I have significant experience supporting gender transition, including discussions about medical interventions if desired. I can provide Masters-level medical intervention letters for insurances and medical consultations in Maryland. My practice acknowledges the intersectionality of identities, considering how factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and disability intersect with gender identity. This allows us to cultivate a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their gender identity and express themselves authentically. I also specialize in empowering clients to advocate for themselves and navigate systems that may not be affirming or supportive of diverse gender identities. If needed, I also provide education to clients about various aspects of gender identity, mental health, and available resources and support networks. I am also involved in advocacy efforts to promote social change, challenging discriminatory policies and practices. I work closely with Trans Maryland and the National Queer and Trans Therapist of Color Network on advocacy and care needs.