Helping adults heal from trauma, rebuild self-worth, and form secure relationships

Leah Aguirre Barnes, LCSW—Co-Founder, Certified EMDR Therapist

Meet Leah (she/her)

Hi! I’m Leah. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. My passion for this work runs deep—both professionally and personally.

Like many of my clients, I’ve faced my own struggles with anxiety and self-worth. I know what it’s like to be in the thick of it, and I also know the healing that’s possible when you have a safe, supportive space to process and grow. I’m a firm believer that therapists should go to therapy too—because doing our own work helps us show up more fully for others.

I specialize in helping adults heal from childhood and attachment trauma. Whether you're breaking free from emotionally abusive relationships or learning to connect from a place of self-worth and empowerment, I’m here to support you every step of the way. I also help clients build confidence in social situations, feel grounded in their bodies, and embrace all of their quirks and idiosyncrasies as strengths. Together, we’ll work on setting healthy boundaries, deepening self-trust, and creating space for relationships that feel safe and mutual.

Outside of the therapy room, I’m an author of Is This Really Love? and co-author of The Girl’s Guide to Relationship, Sexuality and Consent. Both books reflect my dedication to helping people better understand themselves, their relationships, and their worth.

My goal is to help you feel more empowered, confident, and at home within yourself—because you deserve nothing less.

What it’s Like to Work With Me

In sessions, I draw from EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing. My style is warm, collaborative, and solution-focused. We’ll explore your patterns with curiosity, build on your strengths, and create meaningful change that aligns with who you truly are.

I’d describe myself as professional but relaxed and laid back. I want therapy to feel like a comfortable, welcoming space—so go ahead, kick off your shoes, get cozy, and just be you.

My Specialties include:

The Human Behind the Therapist

My Favorite Things

  • Dogs — petting them, befriending them, all of it!!

  • Reality TV (especially anything on Bravo)

  • Vanilla lattes

  • Weightlifting and staying active

  • Quality time with my family and close friends

  • Standing up for what’s right

  • Early 2000s pop hits

  • Pizza (and basically most carbs)

  • Laughing — a lot

  • Writing about things I’m passionate about

  • Challenging myself to do new and difficult things (like running a half marathon—I will never do that again)

My Quirks

  • I spill something at least once a day.

  • I have a habit of leaving cabinets open (sorry in advance).

  • I tell stories that aren’t really stories — and they usually don’t have a punchline.

  • I try to finish my partner’s sentences… and typically miss the mark.

  • I love bananas (and have one every morning) but don’t like them in things

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Diana Rabban, LCSW