Leisa Watkins, LMFT — Therapist in Idaho

Hi there, I'm Leisa!

I am a trauma-informed therapist who believes that trauma does not define a person; it determines our behavioral responses. Trauma can be healed, and our responses can be altered to become healthier and more productive, leading to success in relationships and in life.

My focus

I enjoy working with couples dealing with past trauma, trust issues, communication strains, and parenting challenges. I also work with individuals and couples experiencing dissociation, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, and life changes.

My approach

I combine EMDR with couples work and individual therapy to treat anxiety and depression. I utilize Family Systems, Structural, and Strategic therapies with couples and Ego State and Integrated Family Systems with individuals. My approach helps clients process trauma and develop healthier patterns.

My communication style

I am nonjudgmental, willing to sit with big emotions, open in communication, and validating. When desired, I challenge negative cognitions. I believe that connection is the primary requirement for a healthy and productive therapeutic alliance with my clients.

My journey to mental healthcare

I found complete healing from my own trauma and decided I had a calling to help others overcome their challenges so they could live their best lives and find joy. I continue this work because I love helping others create a new healthy paradigm for themselves.

My goals for you

Goals are personal to each individual. If I am setting your goals, you have no investment in them. I want to help you verbalize your goals and then assist you in developing the tools and skills to meet those goals.

Our first session

My first sessions are all about building rapport. If you aren't comfortable with your clinician after the first session, you will struggle to build a solid working relationship with them. My goal is to develop an environment of acceptance and comfort.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

Dissociative Disorders

+ 18 more

Treatment approaches

EMDR

Christian Counseling

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Compassion Focused

Dialectical (DBT)

+ 5 more

Focus populations

Military/Veterans

Single Mother

Cancer

Educators

Immune-Disorders

+ 5 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy
Couples Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Arlo

+ 31 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Science in Psychology, Forensic Psychology from Argosy University and a Master of Science in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Leisa Watkins