Leslie is a full-time contracted therapist at Ryan Counseling, specializing in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. As a Resident in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, she brings a warm, relational, and systems-focused approach to supporting young people and their caregivers.

Leslie especially enjoys working with clients navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, and family or school-related stressors, as well as .

Leslie focuses on building strong therapeutic relationships and incorporates systemic, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused methods to support meaningful change. She prioritizes creating a safe, welcoming environment where children and teens feel understood and parents feel supported. Leslie is passionate about helping families strengthen communication, build healthier patterns, and develop practical tools they can use at home, in school, and in daily life.

Before beginning her residency in Virginia, Leslie lived and worked overseas for many years. Her international experience shaped her empathy, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity, which enriches her work with youth and families at Ryan Counseling.

When she isn’t in session, Leslie enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, exploring new communities, and attending various sporting events.

Education

· Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, University of San Diego

· Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara

Experience

· Marriage and Family Therapy Intern, Harmonium Inc., San Diego, CA

· Child Development Counselor, San Diego Center for Children

· Social Worker, ANGELS Foster Family Agency

· Special Education Consultant, Eco Kids – Amman, Jordan

· Special Education Consultant, Amadeus International School – Vienna, Austria

Licensures & Certifications

· COMING SOON - Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, supervised by Vasilios A. Gacis, LMFT, LPC (LIC# 0717001059)

· Member, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)

Trainings

· Family Systems Approaches

· ADHD-Informed Counseling Strategies

· Trauma-Informed Care