Leslie Weaver

My name is Leslie Weaver (she/her) and I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical addiction counselor in Indianapolis, Indiana. More than that, I am a human who finds meaning and purpose by joining with others on their unique and individual journeys. I have been a social worker and therapist for over twenty years. I am so lucky to have had wonderful opportunities in my life to serve in many different ways. I began my career at the oldest HIV/AIDS organization in Indiana where I developed their Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder program while also providing therapy services. In other work I was responsible for acutely responding to those impacted by sexual assault, domestic violence and other types of trauma at the the largest emergency department in the state. While there I co-founded a novel Rapid HIV Testing program for ER patients. I have served as volunteer and clinical director Indiana's Disaster Mental Health response team. Over the years I spent time working as mental health provider at the Indiana Women’s Prison with individuals who often had a lengthy history of trauma, mental health concerns and substance use disorder. During my tenure I was certified as a Trauma Informed Care and Suicide Prevention Trainer for the Indiana Department of Corrections. I have also worked for the Veteran’s Administration and served as the LGBT Special Emphasis Program Manager of the facility. Most recently, I have worked as a therapist in a clinical Gender Health Program providing affirming therapy to those who are gender diverse. I have completed additional training to gain specialized skills in working with those who have complicated relationships with their bodies and a history of disordered eating. When making the move to private practice it was important to me that my work be visibly open and welcoming to all people. My practice values include the inherent worth and dignity of every person with a commitment to social justice by being anti-racist, sex positive, and LGBTQIA+ competent and affirming. I am also am very passionate about standing against fatphobia. I am HAES-aligned and a member of the Eating Disorders Taskforce of Indiana. As for my personal life, I live with my partner of ten years with our three smushed-face rescue dogs and an anti-social cat. I love to read, learn, and spend time outdoors. I have recently found a love for kayaking and anything done near or by the water is a win to me. I can be a home-body and love my quiet time. I also love this. My passion and purpose: listening deeply to others and empowering them to heal, grow, and live freely in their authenticity. THERAPEUTIC APPROACH: The Integration of Technique and Heart Over the years I have trained in and utilized multiple therapeutic frameworks including Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I’ve had countless hours of continued education in the areas of trauma and PTSD, substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, living with complex health conditions and disability, mindfulness, eating disorders, and the impact of structural oppression. Upon the completion of a thorough assessment, I tailor my approach to best meet the needs of the individual. I use a person-centered approach in order to empower you on the path to your own self discovery. By joining together, the therapeutic relationship allows for a safe environment to address past experiences, learn to manage symptoms of distress, and honor your becoming. A note about the therapeutic relationship: At the core, the most important element in this work is the relationship built between therapist and client. There is healing in this connection. Engaging in a safe, affirming, empathetic and mutually respectful relationship is paramount to all therapeutic work. In life we can become disconnected from ourselves and the world around us. I believe there is healing in connection. My extensive clinical training and experience allow for the integration of technique and heart which allows this healthy alliance to grow. Being fully seen by another human where we openly share our suffering and fear as well as our hopes and dreams is the alchemy of healing. SERVICES -Individual Counseling- Initial Intake Assessment (90 minutes) $150 Follow-Up Sessions (60 minutes) $120/hr -Gender Affirming Surgery Letters- Free Note: You need not be an ongoing client to utilize this service Supervision and Consultation Contact to Discuss