Hi, nice to meet you, my name is Lesley. I am a LCSW in Missouri with over a decade experience working as a direct practice social worker with transitional age youth starting as young as 16 years old and adults 18+. I have supported clients with stress and anxiety, career difficulties, interpersonal goals and challenges, and coping with life changes. In addition to individual sessions, I have experience facilitating DBT skills groups for young adults & adults along with DBT skills groups targeted for families and couples. I also completed the training to become a 200 hour Certified Yoga Teacher in 2016 and feel privileged to offer yoga as another tool to my clients during their therapy appointments. I also learned during my yoga journey this practice is truly for EVERYBODY. All you need to do yoga is your breath. Yoga allows us the opportunity to practice mindfulness and focus on being present in the moment with ourselves. Other interesting fact about me – First time dog mom since 2020 to Teddy, a rescue Shihtzu from our local animal rescue organization. Teddy influences our household to continue exploring ways we can live an intentional life and appreciate the here and now. When making a decision to work with a therapist, it is also important to know if your availability aligns with the therapist’s availability in order to benefit the most from therapy. Please know I have a full time profession outside of BetterHelp and here is an idea of what my availability may look like most weeks: I currently offer evening weekday appointments after 6:30 pm CT zone on certain Monday through Thursdays each week, select Saturday morning / daytime slots, and select Sunday evening times after 6:30 pm CT zone. My therapy sessions involve the use of techniques from mindfulness, MBCT, DBT, and ACT. My hope is to guide others to be the best version of themselves daily and recognize their passions that bring purpose to life. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I want to support my clients and colleagues in normalizing conversations about therapy and mental health. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.