Leslie Libutti, LCSW

Leslie Libutti is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in California with 20 years of professional experience. She supports adults facing stress, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, motivation struggles, and challenges with self-esteem and confidence. Leslie approaches therapy as a collaborative journey - she helps clients clarify goals, identify strengths, and strengthen coping skills so they can move forward with greater clarity and agency.

Her work often involves gentle, focused listening and guided reflection that sheds light on the internal obstacles people place in their own paths. Through careful conversation and exploration those obstacles frequently become clearer and more manageable, and clients can begin to notice shifts in how they relate to themselves and their circumstances. Leslie acknowledges that change can be difficult and sometimes brings frustration, fear, or pain, but she also emphasizes the moments of joy, humor, and authenticity that arise in the process.

In some cases Leslie incorporates poetry therapy to deepen emotional insight and foster self-understanding. She frames therapy as a partnership in which the client is central, and she encourages people to recognize their own worth and capacity for growth.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Leslie uses Client-Centered Therapy to create a respectful, empathetic space where the client’s priorities and strengths guide the work. This approach emphasizes active listening and collaboration so clients can define their goals and build confidence in their own solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify and gently challenge unhelpful thought patterns and to develop practical coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and depression. Existential Therapy helps clients explore questions of meaning, values, and life purpose, which can be particularly helpful when coping with grief, life transitions, or feelings of isolation.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Leslie works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adjusts the approach as the work evolves. Clients are invited to experiment with techniques and reflect on what feels most helpful.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can happen by video call, over the phone, via live chat, or through text-based messaging to suit different schedules and comfort levels. For many people this range of options makes it easier to maintain continuity of care and to access support without major disruptions to daily life, while still working with licensed professionals and therapists focused on meaningful change.