Leigh HallLMFT

I believe that the first step towards change is acceptance; therefore, I strive to create a non-judgmental space, one that views many "symptoms" as coping mechanisms that made sense at some point but have outgrown whatever usefulness they once had. When we can view ourselves with compassion, we can then challenge ourselves to examine thought and behavior patterns that may be keeping us stuck and learn to move beyond them. An important part of this work is getting in touch with our core values and finding ways to remain in alignment with those values as we move towards our goals. When we know what we truly value and can detach from ideas of "right" and "wrong," we often realize that many paths can lead us to fulfillment, and that avoidance of uncomfortable feelings and experiences only keeps us in stasis. In my work, I use mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral approaches, combined with cultural sensitivity and curiosity — as well as a dose of irreverence — to help clients reconnect with themselves and their true values, honor their emotions without being controlled by them, and access their strengths to build resiliency and a sense of purpose.