Leslie O’Neill
You are brave and have the answers you need, but you may want help right now to “tune in” to those answers. Stress, overwhelm, and long-term patterns may be too much right now. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered and empathetic approach, I can help you confront and integrate painful experiences, addressing and healing the root along with the symptoms.
I have been in the field of psychology for over 40 years now, either studying in my field, working in research, counseling in clinical practice, or teaching/leading as a community volunteer.
I specialize in complex trauma, narcissistic abuse, relationship problems and the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and grief that can go along with these problems. I have been in the field of psychology either learning, researching, or providing services for almost 40 years. I have over a decade of experience providing trauma-informed educational services, mental/emotional health therapy, and grief counseling.
First session
Our first session is a time to start to get to know each other, and build trust to co-create a safe, confidential space for you to land, process, and integrate experiences. We will identify any issues you want to work on or discuss during our time together, and I will explain the therapy process as we get to know the style and strategies that work best for you. I encourage clients to ask questions about me, or therapy, or interventions I may discuss. There are no stupid questions in therapy - it is a learning process.
Strengths
I have been in the field of psychology for over 40 years now, either studying in my field, working in research, counseling in clinical practice, or teaching/leading as a community volunteer. I have learned how to listen to others and I've helped many people learn how to listen to themselves. I'm an avid learner in order to help my clients - I participate in trainings to treat the areas I specialize in every year - anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, addiction/codependence/narcissitic recovery, etc. My clients have told me they appreciate my kindness and directness, humor, insight, ability to explain complex problems in understandable ways, teaching of therapeutic tools, use of specialized interventions, such as Brainspotting, and the care I convey. I really do care about the clients I am privileged to work with.
Ideal clients
My clients have often tried a lot of things to help themselves or their loved ones and are at a point where they feel stuck, overwhelmed, and anxious about the difficulties they've been attempting to solve. They are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make their goals a reality. It's ok to not know what you need to help you - that's why you're here. Clients who are willing to learn, use tools and go through the hard but rewarding process of growth do very well with me.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is a wonderful tool for calming/coping strategies and re-framing negative thought patterns for all age groups. Identifying your core beliefs and learning/practicing skills that quiet harsh, intrusive thoughts will help you move through the world and navigate your relationships with confidence and grace.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT can help you manage "uninvited" change or ongoing difficult feelings, thoughts, or behaviors. You are able to align your thoughts, feelings and actions with your deepest values without bypassing real challenges.
Faith based therapy
Faith is a vital part of our existence and how we move within the world. Identify how your beliefs impact your decisions and relationships as you begin to build meaning and purpose in suffering, love, and your personal calling
Trauma Informed Care
I've attended several trainings over the years and believe building relationships with all my clients based on safety, choice, trust, collaboration, and a focus on empowerment is vital!
Brainspotting
Brainspotting is a way of helping your brain and body find where a difficult experience is still “stuck,” and then gently working with that so the intensity can shift. It’s a safe way to approach trauma, including CPTSD, and other mental, physical, spiritual health challenges,
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 100508
- WisconsinLicense 2034 - 124