Why is faith part of the therapeutic process?

Too often, our faith is kept in a separate box - but what you believe is at the center of who you are. You may have had the experience many of my clients have had - going to a therapist who either completely ignores your faith, or whose advice and tools seem to go against it. When your faith is foundational in your life, it’s important that your therapist works with you to integrate your faith with your mental health.

Do you work with people who are not Christian?

Absolutely. I have worked with people of many different faith backgrounds, and enjoy hearing their stories and their beliefs. I will honor whatever beliefs you come in with, but it is important that you understand that my theory of change is deeply connected to the work that Jesus does as the healing agent in the room.

Where are you located?

My office is in Las Cruces, NM and I work both in person and via telehealth (Zoom) with clients in New Mexico.

What is Story Work?

Clinically known as Narrative Focused Trauma Care, Story Work is a way of looking at your past to heal old wounds and to break the power that lies have over our lives. You can learn more about Story Work by listening to The Place We Find Ourselves podcast by Adam Young (Adam was also trained by The Allender Center).

What is Temperament Counseling?

Temperament Counseling assesses who God made you to be - your strengths and your needs - and we use that information to address the symptoms you may be experiencing. Oftentimes, our uncomfortable symptoms are due to unhealthy ways in which we are trying to meet our temperament needs. Learning how to meet our needs in a healthy way improves relationships, self-awareness, and helps us to make life choices that align with who God made us to be.

Who is Mary Leonard?

I get this question a lot! Mary is my official name, and the name used for all of my official documentation and licensing. My middle name is Kathleen, and I’ve always gone by Katie.