The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek. -Joseph Campbell
It is my belief and guiding principle, that we heal in relationship. We are wired for connection, and this fundamental aspect of being human is a significant part of why therapy works.
My style is relational and attuned—I am actively present, warm, and engaged. I aim to provide a safe therapeutic relationship that fosters increased self-awareness and agency, so that you can explore your story, emotions, and patterns in a non-judgmental space.
My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by years of supporting others in roles such as health educator, EMT, Peer counselor, and outreach worker, guided by the principles of harm reduction. In each of these roles, I witnessed the profound impact that connection and trust can have in creating meaningful change. My own therapeutic journey allowed me to experience the transformative potential of a genuine healing relationship. These experiences inspired me to become a licensed mental health provider and offer the healing and growth I found so life changing.
Grounded by values of curiosity, compassion, and collaboration, my approach seeks to cultivate authentic connection and holistic healing.
I am Foundational Trained in DBT from Behavioral Tech Institute and EMDR trained through emdria approved Thrive Training & Publications.
I have a BA is from Humboldt State University and my MA is from John F. Kennedy University. I became licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008, lmft466556.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar challenges, trauma, invalidation, and relational struggles. Specializing in working with those navigating active substance use. I hold space for the complexity, fear, and hope that come with releasing old habits and creating new ones.
By focusing on your unique needs and honoring your personal history, I strive to facilitate true healing and renewed clarity. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey and free from judgement, one in which we partner to uncover core issues, strengthen coping skills, and foster self-compassion. Together, we’ll create a healing path that feels safe, meaningful, and aligned with your goals.
I actively include and welcome all your layers: BIPOC/ LGBTQ, neurodivergent, ADHD, and those on the autism spectrum.
Furthermore, my theoretical approach provides structure in the following ways: To meet your unique needs, I draw on attachment-informed psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed parts work.
My goal is to create a therapeutic process that feels safe, supportive, and meaningful, helping you navigate challenges, connect with your strengths, and move toward your life worth living goals.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy approach designed to help you process distressing memories in a way that feels safer and more manageable. When we experience trauma or overwhelming life events, the brain can store those memories in a way that keeps them active, causing ongoing distress. With EMDR, you’ll briefly revisit these difficult experiences while engaging in gentle, bilateral stimulation—often through guided eye movements or tapping. This process supports your brain’s natural ability to integrate and heal, reducing the emotional charge tied to past events.
By using EMDR in our work together, we aim to help you find relief from the symptoms associated with these troubling memories—symptoms that can manifest as anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, or feelings of being “stuck.” The goal is not to erase your experiences, but rather to reframe and reprocess them so they no longer hold power over your present. Through EMDR, you can discover greater resilience, emotional balance, and the freedom to move forward with a new sense of empowerment.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, that combines mindfulness with cognitive-behavioral strategies to promote emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. By focusing on balance and acceptance, DBT helps individuals manage intense emotions, build coping skills, and foster greater resilience in everyday life.
Virtual appointments on Thursdays and Fridays. In person appointments on Fridays.
2411 Santa Clara Avenue, Alameda, California 94501
(510) 224-4464 sage@sageleitson.com Accepted Insurance: Aetna, Quest Behavioral Health, Carelon Behavioral Health, Magellan, Blue Shield of California, and Anthem Blue Cross California through Headway. <<https://headway.co/providers/sage-leitson?utm<<
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