LPC, 22 years of experience
Frequently rebooked
Hello! Welcome to my site, my name is Ryan Brooks Leslie, licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist. I'm glad you found me here. There are few situations in life which are comparable to being in therapy; A helping relationship based on mutual respect, honesty, humility, educated/objective guidance, and genuine connection, in order for you to better navigate this thing we call "life". Being able to say anything, without fear of judgment, reproach, or rejection can allow you to truly face the obstacles that separate you from happiness and freedom; to be the best and most fulfilled version of yourself. I have spent the better part of 18 years educating myself and honing my counseling skills to people in this endeavor, and I must say I love being a therapist and have great confidence in my therapeutic skills and their benefit to you. I am experienced in addictions, trauma (EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, improving social skills, existential life issues and transitions. I have found that it is often a combination of forces within and without of ourselves that create our unique situations that we need help with. While I have many methods to facilitate processing (talking, art therapy, mindfulness, EMDR), I believe that you are the expert of your unique story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the challenges of your life. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I commend you for your effort and I am here to support, empower and be a fellow traveler on your journey. "The most powerful thing in the world, is an idea whose time has come"- Victor Hugo
In the first few sessions you will get to know me; my specialties, my personality, and the various treatment modalities I gravitate towards. Then we will formulate a plan for addressing your goals and expectations.
Addictions- I have worked in inpatient Substance Abuse Counseling for 5 years, and have worked with those suffering from Substance Use disorder for the previous 6, so 11 years in all with this population. I am also a person in recovery from Substance Use Disorder with 21+ years of sobriety. I am well versed in Addiction as a Disease (medical model and neurobiology of addiction), relapse prevention, 12 Step recovery, mindfulness, and family issues. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)- Trained and have worked with over 100 clients with this specialized trauma treatment method. Art Therapy- Worked extensively with all types of people, treating addiction, depression, anxiety, problem solving, and communication. Mental Health- Psychosis, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety
I love to work with folks who are at a point in their lives where they want to make a change; sometimes because of a life event, sometimes because of discontent, and for people who are ready to confront those obstacles that are preventing them from becoming the best they want to be. Addiction, trauma anxiety, depression, relationship and communication issues, stress, and many others can be the forces holding people back. I utilize Rational Emotive Behavioral therapy (REBT), Acceptance therapy, 12 Step model, Art therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a treatment for traumatic memories which has been shown to quickly and effectively reduce or eliminate the intense emotional reactions people experiences with trauma. I have worked with hundreds of people using this modality, both in person and virtually.
4 ratings with written reviews
May 27, 2025
In my first session with Ryan I have been given confidence that this is the beginning of a fruitful journey. Prior to our session I had a feeling of anxiety, not knowing how things would go but that feeling disappeared a short time into our conversation. I'm excited for the future.
May 5, 2025
I have been working with Ryan for over a year now. In this time, I have made valuable progress on my self-esteem and establishing greater consistency between my intentions, on the one hand, and my actions, on the other hand. I attribute this noticeable progress to Ryan's holistic and solution oriented approach as a therapist. In short, he helps keep me honest on my path towards greater self acceptance and personal growth, and this form of external accountability is appreciated.
March 18, 2025
Very down to earth and relatable. Backround and his personal experiences align with what I am looking for in a therapist.