Julie Leader, PhD

Welcome to the practice of Dr. Julie Leader, a clinical psychologist dedicated to empowering individuals and couples to live more fulfilling lives. Since 2001, Dr. Leader has provided a compassionate and supportive space for clients navigating a wide range of challenges, enabling them to find solutions, build resilience, and achieve lasting change.

Based in Redwood City, California, Dr. Leader brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her practice. Her commitment to evidence-based therapies, coupled with her genuine desire to understand each client's unique journey, sets the stage for a collaborative and transformative therapeutic experience.

Therapeutic Services

Dr. Leader specializes in a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the individual needs of her clients. Her areas of expertise encompass:

• Couples Therapy: Dr. Leader utilizes proven strategies, including Gottman Method Couples Therapy, to help couples strengthen their connection, improve communication, and navigate conflicts constructively.

• Low Self-Esteem: Through personalized treatment plans, Dr. Leader guides clients in identifying and challenging negative self-beliefs, fostering a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence.
• Grief and Loss: Dr. Leader provides a safe and empathetic environment for individuals dealing with the profound impact of loss. Her expertise in Complicated Grief helps clients process their grief, find meaning in their experience, and move forward in a healthy way.
• Life Transitions: Navigating major life changes can be both exhilarating and challenging. Dr. Leader supports clients through these transitions, providing guidance and tools to adapt and thrive in new circumstances.
• Anxiety: Dr. Leader offers specialized treatment for a range of anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, generalized anxiety, specific phobias, panic attacks, and agoraphobia. Her expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) equips clients with strategies to manage their anxiety effectively.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based approach focuses on identifying and modifying thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. Dr. Leader utilizes CBT principles to help clients develop coping mechanisms, challenge negative thought patterns, and ultimately improve their mental well-being.
• Improved Coping: Dr. Leader empowers clients to develop healthy coping skills for managing stress, adversity, and difficult emotions. These skills provide a foundation for resilience and emotional regulation.
• Sub-Clinical and Clinical Depression: Dr. Leader provides compassionate and effective treatment for both sub-clinical and clinical depression, utilizing a combination of CBT, mindfulness techniques, and interpersonal therapy to alleviate symptoms and foster a sense of hope.
• Relationship Building & Communication Skills: Dr. Leader assists individuals and couples in strengthening their relationships by developing effective communication strategies, promoting empathy, and resolving conflicts constructively.

Dr. Leader's therapeutic approach is characterized by warmth, empathy, and a strong client-centered perspective. She believes in partnering with her clients to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals.