Jacob Leonardi LCSW

PTSD is my focus and specialization. The impact that trauma has on our emotional tolerance, thought processes, and physiological senses makes its treatment highly critical. More importantly, when clients begin to heal from trauma, the change in their daily life is highly observable and profound. With modalities like EMDR, we are able to treat trauma and its complexities with a high degree of effectiveness.

Attachment theory is incredibly important to explore, as our attachment styles impact our abilities to regulate our feelings, establish self-esteem, and engage in relationships in healthy ways. Attachment is also relevant in those that experience trauma. If someone experiences trauma from a family member or caregiver, this almost always leads to damaging one's attachment style.

Anxiety is pervasive in our society, with our ambitious, individualistic expectations. Anxiety is also highly noticeable physically, which makes it hard to break from once it is there. Lastly, anxiety has a strong impact on our perceptions and thought processes. Body engagement becomes essential to treating anxiety but can be hard to master. Fortunately, with dedicated practice, anxiety can be quite manageable and be eliminated altogether.

I have over 3 years of experience utilizing EMDR as a primary treatment modality. I have advanced training in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have treated complex PTSD as well as addiction with this modality, and have seen more growth and positive change using EMDR than almost any other modality.

Having co-facilitated DBT group therapy, I have extensive knowledge of this modality and its modules. The skills derived from DBT are fundamental to my approach, as I believe all clients can benefit from this modality. From emotion regulation to mindfulness, I use simple, straightforward approaches to building these skills.

CBT is the modality I use in every session with every client. I have extensive knowledge of its concepts, skills, and techniques that I deliver in a way that is easy to understand and implement.