Hey there, I'm Leiora!

I believe one of the bravest things we can do is begin to understand our stories. Our minds and bodies react to trauma in a defensive way. The human mind is uniquely designed to defend against the memories of scary events, yet sometimes those defense mechanisms end up causing ongoing pain unnecessarily. Feelings of anger, shame, anxiety and depression can keep one stuck in an endless loop of suffering. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to stay that way. Together, we can approach your journey toward healing, empowering you to engage in your life and self-care. I have been in practice for many years and have seen the benefit of this healing journey.

At times, ongoing pain resulting from traumatic experiences may inhibit our sexual functioning and identity. I am a licensed AASECT Sex Therapist, which is a specialty that helps people work through sexual issues in a safe, supportive setting. Some people are confused by the term sex therapist; I want to reassure you that this is a type of talk therapy and doesn’t involve crossing boundaries or touching in any way. My treatment modalities include evidence-based interventions such as DBT, CBT, ACT and Mindfulness. CBT and Mindfulness practices are effective interventions for female sexual (interest/arousal) disorders; these interventions can have a healthy impact on sexual wellness and functioning.


Education & Experience

Professional Organizations:

  • American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT)
  • National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Professional Credentials:

  • AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST)
  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II: Complex Trauma (CCTP-II)

Education

Widener University 
Master’s in Social Work
Master’s in Human Sexuality Education 

Albright College
B.A. Psychology

Professional Social Work Experience:

Psychotherapist
Kaiser Permanente

Outpatient Therapist
Providence Psychiatry Clinic East

Psychotherapist
The Counseling and Wellness Center

Senior Primary Therapist: Women’s Specialized Trauma Program
Princeton House Behavioral Health: Partial Hospitalization/Intensive Outpatient

Senior Primary Therapist
Jersey City Medical Center: Adult Outpatient

MSW Intern
Psychiatric Medical Care Unit
Hahnemann University Hospital