Leonie Lerner, PsyD

Hi! I’m Leonie Lerner, a postdoctoral psychologist at Bryant West Psychology. I provide in-person and virtual therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples in NYC and across the state. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress, identity concerns, and trauma, with expertise in complex, childhood, combat-related, sexual, and racial trauma. I also have a special passion for working with neurodivergent individuals (ADHD and autism), especially adults navigating a late diagnosis. Additionally, I’m trained in psychodiagnostic and neurodevelopmental testing to help provide answers you may be looking for.

I believe great care starts with advocacy, inclusion, and understanding each individual’s lived experience. I am dedicated to serving the LGBTQ+ community and supporting those navigating gender, sexuality, and identity concerns. I also work with those coping with chronic pain, illness, and disability. Additionally, I enjoy supporting students through the unique academic and emotional pressures of school and early career challenges.

While I draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches, my work is primarily grounded in Psychodynamic developmental approaches and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together, we'll explore how your past experiences and early relationships continue to shape your present while building the mindfulness, self-compassion, and flexibility needed to navigate difficult thoughts and emotions. When appropriate, I also incorporate skills from CBT and DBT to help you identify unhelpful thought patterns, manage intense emotions, and build healthier relationships and boundaries.

I believe change happens when you feel both supported and gently challenged. My goal is to build a warm, trusting relationship where you feel safe exploring difficult experiences while feeling empowered to grow. We’ll approach your patterns with curiosity and kindness, deepening your self-understanding to create lasting change both in and out of the therapy room.

I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of La Verne in California. My background includes training in VA medical systems, private practice, and specialized services supporting college students. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan, providing therapy, psychological assessments, and executive functioning skills training for individuals with ADHD and autism.

If you think we might be a good fit, I’d be delighted to hear from you. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey!