Olivia Lesley,
MA, MSc, LAMFT
Sex Therapist and Couples and Family Therapist
Olivia (she/her/hers) holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California and is pursuing her PhD with a focus on sexuality and relationships at Seton Hall University. In Los Angeles, Olivia trained as a trauma counselor to support survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. She furthered her training at Sentio Counseling Center where she gained expertise in family and couples therapy. Her areas of professional interest encompass healing from sexual trauma, sex therapy, couples’ dynamics, family systems, and promoting sustainable wellness for LGBT+ communities.
Olivia specializes in relationship therapy where she fosters intimacy, communication, and positive relational dynamics. Whether she is working with individuals, couples, or families, she is an expert at navigating the intricacies of relationships. No person exists alone and often the most important factors for healing are the relationships in someone’s life. Olivia’s approach is holistic, considering the interconnectedness of family members and the impact of their interactions on each individual’s mental and emotional well-being. Her goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their issues, develop coping strategies, and build stronger, more resilient relationships. Marriage and Family Therapists are particularly effective in dealing with issues such as marital conflict, parenting challenges, and the effects of trauma on family dynamics.
Olivia offers values-focused, trauma-informed therapy to those striving to enhance their relationships, broaden their possibilities, and strengthen their sense of agency. She helps individuals recognize how language, environment, and culture influence self-perception and encourages them to situate their personal narratives within broader contexts. She prides herself on being culturally responsive and integrates her client’s cultural, religious, and/or spiritual identity into their work together. Olivia exemplifies warmth and collaboration, blending Schema Therapy and experiential-relational techniques with postmodern theories, mindfulness, and somatic experiences. Schema therapy is a form of talk therapy designed to enhance mental well-being by transforming unhealthy thought patterns, known as schemas, into more balanced ones. Schemas are mental frameworks individuals use to interpret themselves and their environment, often forming during childhood, particularly when emotional and physical needs are unmet.
Olivia is inclusive of kink, polyamory, and sex work in her practice, creating a safe and affirming environment for clients to explore their authentic selves, address challenges, and cultivate resilience.
Whether conducting couples therapy, organizing workshops, or advocating for inclusive approaches, Olivia remains dedicated to holistic well-being.