Lesley Shapiro

My Approach & Style

I view therapy as a collaborative, goal-oriented process focused on practical change rather than unstructured or purely supportive sessions. My approach is solution-focused and skills-based. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to address patterns contributing to anxiety, relationship strain, and unhelpful habits, with an emphasis on building effective coping and emotional regulation skills.

Professional Background & Expertise

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California and Virginia, I bring extensive experience in family systems and school-based advocacy. A significant part of my practice involves supporting families navigating special education, including IEPs and 504 plans, with attention to both academic needs and emotional functioning.

What to Expect

Treatment is individualized and aligned with evidence-based standards of care. Work may focus on relationship communication, life transitions, or stress management, using practical strategies that support consistency and day-to-day improvement. Treatment goals are reviewed and adjusted based on progress and clinical need.

My Approach to Therapy

My approach emphasizes structured, collaborative treatment that combines insight with practical skill-building. Work begins by identifying specific patterns in thoughts, relationships, and daily habits that contribute to ongoing distress or feeling stuck.

I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Sessions are active and goal-oriented, with a focus on:

• Identifying underlying patterns: Clarifying factors contributing to stress, conflict, or dysregulation
• Skill development: Learning practical tools to support emotional regulation and effective communication
• Problem-solving: Applying strategies, including DBT-informed decision-making skills, to real-world challenges such as relationship strain or navigating special education systems (IEPs/504s)

Treatment is provided in a neutral, supportive environment, with attention to both validation and forward movement. The goal is steady, meaningful improvement in day-to-day functioning, with treatment goals reviewed and adjusted as needed.

What to Expect: The First Session

The first session is a collaborative intake focused on clarifying concerns and establishing direction for treatment. You can expect a structured, supportive environment with attention to the following areas:

• Understanding your concerns: We will review the specific issues bringing you to therapy, such as relationship difficulties, ongoing stress, or challenges related to special education systems (IEPs/504s).
• Goal setting: We will identify clear, treatment-focused goals and discuss what meaningful progress would look like, allowing therapy to remain purposeful and measurable.
• Initial treatment planning: We will begin outlining an initial approach, including relevant CBT or DBT–informed strategies, to guide next steps and support early engagement in treatment.

The session is designed to balance validation with structure, providing a clear framework for ongoing work and next steps.