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- Stress and anxiety
- Trauma and grief
- Goal setting
About Lesley
LMFT in California with 12 years of experience, Lesley Schwam focuses on stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, self esteem, depression, addictions, relationship and family concerns, intimacy-related issues, anger, career changes, coping with life changes, and ADHD. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. Lesley emphasizes practical steps people can use right away and helps them set short and long term goals.
Lesley begins by learning what is most pressing for the person in front of her. She talks through current struggles and daily behaviors that get in the way of goals. Early sessions often include basic self-care and coping skills that can reduce symptoms fast.
After initial coping work, Lesley and the client focus on goal setting and boundary skills. She uses exercises that clarify small, achievable steps toward larger changes. Communication skills and strategies for managing anger and relationship strain are common topics.
For people affected by trauma, grief, or major life shifts, Lesley blends practical behavior changes with solution-focused conversations. This means identifying what is already working and building on it. She also addresses issues such as addictions, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and body image with concrete techniques and problem solving.
Sessions include work on career transitions, blended family issues, family of origin concerns, and rebuilding confidence after losses. Lesley frames progress as measurable steps. She helps people notice changes and adjust plans as needed.
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How CBT and solution-focused work translates to online sessions
Lesley uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT sessions often involve short exercises, tracking patterns between thoughts and actions, and practicing new behaviors between meetings. This approach is commonly used for anxiety, depression, panic, and many stress-related problems.She also uses Solution-Focused Therapy to zero in on practical steps that move a person toward their goals. Those sessions emphasize what is already working, set small measurable targets, and build momentum through short-term changes. This method suits people who want fast, action-oriented strategies for specific life problems.
Choosing an approach is a collaborative process. Lesley will discuss goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t worked before to decide whether CBT, solution-focused work, or a mix fits best. She will adjust methods as progress is reviewed and goals change.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when helpful, and reduce travel time. These practical benefits help people keep consistent work on skills and goals while managing day-to-day demands.
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Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
12+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
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Frequently asked questions
What issues does she address?
She works with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, self esteem, depression, addictions, relationship and family concerns, intimacy issues, anger, career and life transitions, and ADHD.
What methods does she use in sessions?
Her practice uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. Sessions focus on changing daily behaviors and finding practical solutions to move toward goals.
How much experience does she have?
She has 12 years of clinical experience working with a range of concerns including trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensed in California and practices from that state.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with her?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions billed?
Cost varies by location and sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I start working with her?
Begin by selecting the See online therapy options button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and scheduling a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the urgent help numbers.