Meet Julie Lenhardt, LCSW | THERAPIST BASED IN SAN RAFAEL

Together, we can reach your goals and help you get unstuck.

Let’s tap into your unique talents, gifts, and personality to help you find peace and contentment. 

I believe therapy should be
effective. customized. inspirational. safe. affirming. empowering. healing.

I understand that what you’re going through right now is anything but simple. You may feel exhausted from wearing a mask that hides your true self and your pain, always prioritizing everyone else’s needs. Whether you’re dealing with the overwhelming weight of anxiety, navigating the emotional turmoil of a breakup or divorce, or seeking healing that lasts, it’s normal to feel like you’re managing a lot while your heart feels heavy. You don’t have to carry this alone; I’m here to support you as you find your way back to yourself. 

You don’t have to keep feeling this way. Not anymore.

It’s time for a fulfilling, meaningful life where you embrace your true identity, heal both your heart and mind, and build the deep, authentic connections you deserve.

MY APPROACH

I offer a safe place to land: somewhere to explore everything you’re feeling without judgment or shame.

In our time together, I strive to be intuitive, listening not only to what you say but also to what might be left unsaid—those deeper feelings or beliefs that can often go unnoticed. I find it helpful to start our sessions with a clear explanation of what to expect, which can ease any anxiety and set a positive tone. I incorporate a structured approach with a predictable beginning, middle, and end, allowing you to see how routine can help your mind relax. Many clients appreciate the transparency I bring to treatment plans, as I believe it’s important to outline a clear, actionable path rather than leaving you in the dark.

My approach is rooted in community and connection, valuing the diverse perspectives each client brings.

I recognize that there are many unique struggles—especially within the LGBTQ+ community—and I’m here to understand, explore, and navigate those challenges together. We’ll work together to explore your values and how your individual choices can align with your ideals, leveraging your unique gifts and talents in service of your higher goals and the life you envision. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that honors your needs and aspirations, no matter what you’re facing. I’m direct and open about the therapeutic process because I want you to feel informed and empowered every step of the way. Plus, my adorable co-therapist (my dog, Arrow) is always around to add a little extra warmth to our sessions.

With training in a variety of modalities, I’ll always adapt my approach to fit your unique needs, drawing from different techniques without being rigidly attached to any one method. This is a collaborative process—together, we’ll explore and select elements that will resonate with you. My goal is to provide a space of connection and healing, where you feel empowered to tackle your challenges and discover meaningful, lasting solutions.

Meet Arrow

Arrow is my lovable, personality-packed Cocker Spaniel with an amazing intuition for sensing when someone needs a little extra support.

With his gentle presence, he’s there in tough moments and difficult emotions, bringing comfort and warmth when you need it.

WHAT TO EXPECT

When you come to therapy, I want you to feel at ease and know what to expect. This initial agenda helps to create a sense of safety and predictability for you.

In each session, you can expect:

  • We’ll follow a clear beginning, middle, and end. This structure not only helps you feel more secure but also supports your brain in relaxing and engaging with the therapy process.

  • Your goals are the priority. We’ll work together to establish what you’d like to focus on during our time together.

  • I believe in being open about your treatment plan so you know what’s on the path ahead of us. It’s important to me that you feel confident in the direction we’re headed, and we can always re-route if necessary.

Some of the methods I use include…

  • EMDR helps you process painful memories, making it easier to cope with traumatic experiences, including the emotional aftermath of divorce and breakups. By reprocessing these memories, you can find relief and regain a sense of control in your life.

  • ACT helps you accept your thoughts and feelings instead of avoiding them. It encourages you to identify your core values and take committed actions aligned with those values, even when you’re facing emotional challenges.

  • CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns that can arise during stressful times like breakups or moments of anxiety. By identifying and challenging these thoughts, you can develop healthier coping strategies and a more positive outlook for the future.

  • DBT teaches skills to manage intense emotions and improve relationships, making it a great fit for those navigating the emotional ups and downs of divorce or identity challenges. It allows you to communicate more effectively and find balance in your life.

  • Mindfulness encourages you to stay present, helping to reduce anxiety and stress related to life changes. By practicing mindfulness, you can cultivate a sense of calm and clarity, making it easier to navigate your feelings and decisions.

  • Narrative therapy allows you to explore and reshape the stories you tell yourself about your identity and experiences, especially during difficult life transitions. By redefining your narrative, you can feel empowered to create a brighter future where you’re the one in control.

MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE

My Training & Education

Education & Licensure

  • M.S. Social Work, Columbia University

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (California LCSW116302 & Nevada. 11942-C)

Trainings & Certifications

  • Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)

You are worthy of it all

Claim your peace, your happiness, and your freedom—you are worthy of it all.

Convenient online sessions based in San Rafael and across CA.