Leanna Taliaferro

I believe therapy works best when you feel comfortable, understood, and able to show up as yourself. My approach comes from a background in working within the school system, nonprofits, and hospital.

I frequently incorporate Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailoring my approach to each client’s needs, goals, and experiences. Our work may include identifying unhelpful thought patterns, building greater awareness and acceptance of emotions, strengthening communication, and making meaningful changes that align with your values.

I’m also a big believer in learning beyond the therapy room, so don’t be surprised if I have a book recommendation that connects with something we’re working on. My goal is for therapy to feel supportive, thoughtful, and practical—while still leaving room for curiosity, reflection, and growth.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a space where you can explore difficult thoughts and emotions without judgment while also developing practical skills you can use outside of therapy.

Our first session is centered on curiosity, authenticity, and building trust. I recognize that you know yourself and your experiences better than anyone else. My role is not to make assumptions about who you are, but to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and gather information that helps me better understand you and what brings you to therapy.

During the initial assessment, we’ll explore your current concerns, relevant life experiences, relationships, strengths, and what you hope to gain from therapy. There is no expectation that you share everything at once. Building trust takes time, and I want you to feel comfortable moving at a pace that feels right for you.

Together, we’ll begin identifying goals for therapy and discussing what you would like to see change or feel different in your life. My goal for the first session is for you to leave feeling heard, respected, and with a clearer sense of how we can work together moving forward.