Leandra Stewart

"I wish I could show you, when you are lonely or in darkness, The Astonishing Light of your own Being" - Hafiz Approach My approach to therapy is rooted in evidenced-based practices while also honoring the humanness of the therapeutic relationship. I enter into the relational space with a nonjudgmental, curious, and authentic stance in an effort to build a safe foundation from which people can gently step into spaces of honest self-reflection and vulnerability. I meet clients “where they are” in regard to readiness for change and develop a collaborative treatment plan. I draw from cognitive, behavioral, and strengths-based approaches while also weaving in somatic practices to compliment the "thinking" work. I strive to gently challenge clients to approach discomfort, break out of “autopilot,” and live a life with meaning, connection, and in great alignment with personal values. Areas of Specialty I have a special interest in working with adults who identify as neurodivergent (and those curious if they are). I am passionate about helping people experience a deep understanding of who they are and how they operate in a neurotypical world. I adapt traditional approaches to be neurodivergent-affirming, and offer education and personalized exploration of the neurodivergent framework. I also have expertise in helping people change their relationship with alcohol or other drug use. Often people find themselves in an unhelpful pattern of relying on substances for coping, comfort, or to feel connected to something yet face a stigma associated with seeking support. I take a nonjudgmental stance, utilizing evidence-based principles of CBT, ACT, and harm reduction to help people create the type of relationship with substances that works best for them. Along with these areas, I enjoy supporting people experiencing anxiety, perfectionism, overwhelm, life transitions (e.g., retirement, marriage, divorce, new baby, career changes, loss, etc.), and problems with self-esteem. Diagnostic Assessment I offer diagnostic evaluations for ADHD and Autism for adults. I follow best-practice guidelines which include a thorough clinical interview/developmental history, symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales, and gathering collateral information from someone who knows you well (when possible). Training I received my doctorate in clinical psychology from Seattle Pacific University in 2014. I completed a pre-doctoral internship training at the VA Northern California Health Care System and a postdoctoral fellowship through the Center of Excellence in Substance Abuse Training and Education at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, gaining expertise in the treatment of substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. I went on to work as a staff psychologist at the Seattle VA for several years before transitioning into private practice. As a member of PSYPACT, I am authorized to provide telehealth services to clients in the 43 participating states found here: https://psypact.gov/page/psypactmap