LCSW, 3 years of experience
New to Grow
My name is Vanessa Leon-Gonzalez, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida specializing in trauma therapy — from childhood and attachment wounds to single traumatic events and everything in between. I utilize IFS, EMDR and Brainspotting to work with individuals and couples. Outside of the therapy room, I’m happiest biking nature trails throughout South Florida, sketching or painting, writing fiction, or enjoying popcorn at the movies with my husband. My 8-year-old Red Fox Hound, Ginger, and my 9-year-old black-and-white spotted cat, Lucy, often keep me company in virtual sessions. I’m also a proud mom and stepmom — my daughter is a pop singer/songwriter in Brooklyn, my son is studying finance in college, and my two energetic stepsons keep me up-to-date on everything from anime to math puzzles. I see our work together as a journey — one where I walk alongside you, helping you reconnect with the steady, wise core that’s always been within you. It's my honor to hold space for you as you find your way back to your own True North.
The first session is a gentle beginning — a chance to slow down, exhale, and be seen. We’ll talk about what brings you here, what you hope to feel more of, and what safety looks like for you. My goal is to help you leave that first hour with a sense of calm, clarity, and hope for what’s possible.
My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own life-changing experience in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy — a deep yet gentle approach that helps us connect with and heal the different “parts” within us. As I uncovered and cared for those parts, I released decades of trauma and began to feel more like the person I was always meant to be. Through this work, I discovered my own True North — a clear, steady sense of direction grounded in authenticity and self-compassion. Today, I help my clients find their True North. I bring the calm, compassionate, and curious “Self” energy of IFS into every session, creating a safe space for you to explore, heal, and grow. My approach integrates IFS, EMDR, and Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR), so we can work in a way that honors your pace and unique needs.
My ideal client is someone who’s ready to look beneath the surface — not because they’re broken, but because they sense there’s more to them waiting to be understood. They may be carrying old patterns of people-pleasing, perfectionism, or emotional responsibility and are longing to feel at ease in their own skin. They’re curious, introspective, and tired of staying small to keep the peace. Together, we work gently and honestly, creating space for all the parts of you to be seen, understood, and cared for. Healing isn’t about fixing yourself — it’s about coming home to yourself.
Level 1 Trained, Level 2 Intimacy From The Inside Out (Couples) Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a unique and transformative approach that views the mind as consisting of multiple parts, each with its own thoughts, feelings, and motivations. The interactions of these parts can sometimes lead to inner conflict and emotional distress. In IFS therapy, I will help you identify and understand these different parts of yourself. Through compassionate exploration and guided introspection, you'll learn to differentiate between these parts and the core Self, which is calm, curious, and compassionate. You'll develop a deeper understanding of your inner dynamics, cultivate self-compassion, and gain insight into the underlying issues driving your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Brainspotting is a powerful, brain-based therapy that helps uncover and heal the roots of trauma, anxiety, and other overwhelming experiences. It works by locating “brainspots” — eye positions connected to where unresolved memories, emotions, and sensations are stored in the body. With my support. you focus gently on these brainspots while staying connected and grounded, allowing your brain and nervous system to process and release what has been stuck.
Using a combination of IFIO (Internal Family Systems for couples) and Gottman Method, we will explore dynamics in your partnership with the goal of greater understanding and love.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly effective and evidence-based therapy approach to help you process and heal from traumatic or distressing experiences. EMDR utilizes bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds, to facilitate your brain's natural healing process. This bilateral stimulation helps activate both hemispheres of your brain, allowing traumatic memories or distressing experiences to be processed and integrated more effectively.