Hi! I'm Leslie Aguilar, LMFT.


Let’s jump right in! Balance is a concept we frequently hear about and are encouraged to implement. It can be challenging to find “balance” when busyness is interwoven into our day-to-day. I prioritize supporting individuals’ exploration of what “balance” looks like and means to them. Our versions of “balance” fluctuate depending on life circumstances, anxieties, grief, commitments, interpersonal relationships, etc. 

I practice from the belief that the therapeutic relationship is a two-way street, creating room for conversation AND compassionate feedback. Curiosity is important as we make room for self-growth AND self-acceptance to coexist. In the initial phases of therapy, the degree of collaboration will vary from person to person, and I’m all for that! Therapy is nonlinear. We will figure it out together.

My clinical experience stems from working in residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient treatment centers throughout Los Angeles since 2015. Specialties include: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, personality disorders, DBT therapy, relationships and working with high-achieving individuals.

I also specialize in working with the preteen, teen and the young adult populations; themes include academic & career pressures, life transitions, parent conflict, navigating friendships, romantic relationships, managing stress, and the overall exploration of evolving identities, interests and goals.


Ours lives are rooted in connection.
Connection with ourselves.
Connection with others.
Connection with our interests.
Connection with our work.
THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

Treatment modalities

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT and DBT-A)
  • Person-Centered
  • Trauma-Informed
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Strengths-Based
  • Compassion-Focused
  • Integrative & Holistic
  • Family Systems
  • Health at Every Size (HAES)

Areas of focus

  • Addiction
  • Adolescent Development
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment
  • Body Image
  • Boundary setting
  • Codependency
  • Depression
  • Disordered Eating
  • Family Conflict
  • First-Generation College Students
  • Friendships
  • Imposter Syndrome
  • Intergenerational Trauma
  • Perfectionism
  • Personality Disorders
  • Relationships
  • Self-Esteem
  • Substance use
  • Trauma

Trainings

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy Foundational Training
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills for Adolescents & Families (DBT-A)
  • Trauma-Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Random Facts About Me

I was born and raised in Los Angeles! Growing up, the San Fernando Valley was my playground.

As a DBT therapist, friends tease me when I over enunciate the word “and.” IYKYK.

I have a love-hate relationship with social media. Working with teens, I try my best to keep up with the latest trends!

Santa Barbara is one of favorite places. I went to UCSB for undergrad.

Do I watch reality TV? Yes. It’s all about balance!

Let's connect!

Therapy is both an emotional and financial investment. It's important to work with a provider whose values and approach resonates with you.