THERAPY LG
Welcome
My name is Leonidas "Leo" Gkimisis, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #4064, CA).
Leo is an experienced psychotherapist who is LGBTQ-affirmative (proud member of the LGBTQ+ community) and specializes in substance abuse counseling. Leo provides a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their concerns and work towards healing. Leo is committed to helping clients achieve psychological flexibility and live their best lives. With their personalized approach, you can trust that you'll receive the care and support you need to thrive.
Credentials
Education
Experience
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, having obtained my licensure in 2017. My journey in this field began with a deep-rooted passion for supporting individuals through their challenges.
Education and Experience:
My academic journey led me to San Francisco State University, where I graduated in 2015 with a degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. This program not only provided me with foundational knowledge but also shaped my approach to holistic healing.
I embarked on my counseling experience in 2012, starting with the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. This early experience was integral in shaping my understanding of the diverse needs and resilience of my clients. Following this, I completed two enriching internships - one at the Ohlhoff Recovery Programs Henry Ohlhoff House and another with the California Department of Rehabilitation. These experiences deepened my expertise in addiction recovery and vocational rehabilitation, equipping me to support individuals through a variety of life transitions and challenges.
My Clinical Focus - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
In my practice, I lean heavily on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This modern, evidence-based approach is more than just a set of techniques; it's a transformative way of interacting with your thoughts and emotions.
ACT centers around two core processes:
1. **Acceptance:** Learning to embrace your thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling overwhelmed by them.
2. **Commitment:** Working towards living a life that aligns with your values, even in the face of difficult or painful experiences.
By integrating ACT into our sessions, we can work together to:
- Develop psychological flexibility, enabling you to adapt to various situations with mindfulness and openness.
- Identify and pursue what truly matters to you, leading to a more fulfilling and values-driven life.
- Cultivate skills to effectively manage anxiety, depression, and stress.
Whether you are navigating complex emotions, life transitions, or seeking to enhance your overall well-being, I am here to guide you on this journey. Together, we can explore pathways to not just 'get unstuck', but to thrive.