Jen Leland

I'm a queer Gen X therapist who has been licensed for 20 years, working at the intersection of deep personal healing and collective liberation. Using Internal Family Systems (IFS) and depth-oriented approaches, I support those with complex trauma get to know the parts of themselves that learned to survive, so they can heal with more compassion, choice, and ease. I especially love working with young adults, organizers, health care workers, creatives, and outsiders who carry a lot for others, feel deeply, and courageously seek support.

My approach is rooted in liberation psychology, deeply relational, and blends IFS, psychodynamic, and specific modalities for complex trauma and grief as well as those who have histories in high-control or coercive relationships and groups. I see your struggles in the context of family, culture, and the systems we live within, and I believe our individual healing ripples outward into our communities. I offer sessions in person in Berkeley and via telehealth throughout California.

Our first session is a chance to slow down and get a feel for each other, with no pressure to tell your whole story or have it all figured out. I'll ask about what's bringing you in and what you're hoping for, and we'll take time to notice what's happening in your body and in the parts of you that showed up today, including the ones that might be nervous or unsure. You're welcome to go at your own pace, ask me anything about how I work, and say what feels right or doesn't. Many people leave a first session feeling a little lighter, more curious about themselves, and clearer about whether we're a good fit to walk together.