Julie Leader, PhD

I am Julie Leader, PhD, a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Redwood City, California. Since 2001, I have dedicated my career to guiding individuals and couples through life's challenges, fostering personal transformations, and creating a path towards more fulfilling lives. My approach is grounded in the belief that everyone possesses inherent strengths and within them lies the potential for growth and healing.

My mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I understand that seeking therapy can be a deeply personal and sometimes vulnerable experience. It takes courage to acknowledge difficulties and reach out for help. My role as a therapist is to offer compassion, understanding, and a collaborative partnership to help you navigate these complexities and achieve your goals.

My Approach to Therapy

At the heart of my therapeutic approach lies a collaborative partnership built on respect, trust, and empathy. Together, we will explore your unique challenges and aspirations, identifying areas where you desire growth and change. I firmly believe that change is not solely a matter of willpower; it requires a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and the surrounding environment.

We will work together to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. My therapeutic interventions draw upon evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Functional Analytic Psychotherapy. These approaches have been proven effective in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and low self-esteem.

Areas of Expertise

My areas of expertise encompass a diverse range of mental health concerns, including:

• Couples Therapy: I specialize in helping couples strengthen their connection, resolve conflicts effectively, and build a more fulfilling and intimate relationship. I utilize the Gottman Method, a research-based approach that focuses on understanding relationship dynamics and improving communication patterns.

• Anxiety: I work with individuals struggling with various forms of anxiety, including social anxiety, generalized anxiety, specific phobias, panic attacks, and agoraphobia. My approach aims to help you understand and manage your anxiety symptoms, develop coping strategies, and gradually confront feared situations.

• Low Self-Esteem: Building self-compassion and a positive self-image is a core aspect of my work. I guide individuals in identifying and challenging negative self-beliefs, cultivating self-acceptance, and developing strategies to enhance their sense of worth.

• Grief and Loss: Navigating the complex emotions associated with loss can be incredibly challenging. I provide a safe space to process grief, honor memories, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to move forward in life.

• Life Transitions: Major life changes, such as job loss, relationship shifts, or the death of a loved one, can be significant sources of stress and upheaval. I help individuals navigate these transitions with resilience, adaptation, and a sense of hope.

• Depression: I offer comprehensive support to individuals experiencing depression, aiming to alleviate symptoms, improve mood, and restore a sense of meaning and purpose.

I encourage you to reach out if you are seeking support or guidance on your journey toward greater well-being.