Child & Adolescent Therapist
Lesley
Velasquez
APCC #19583 | Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
Part of a collaborative care team with Desiree McLaughlin, LMFT #105097
"Every child and teen deserves someone in their corner — a safe person who listens without judgment and helps them make sense of what they are feeling."
Hablo Español
Hi, I'm Lesley. I work with children and adolescents who are carrying more than they know how to put into words, and I consider it one of the greatest honors of my work to help them find their way through it.
I use play, creative expression, and trauma-informed approaches because I believe children heal best when therapy meets them where they are, not where we expect them to be. My sessions are warm and unhurried, and I work hard to make sure every child feels genuinely safe and understood from the very first session.
I offer therapy virtually, and for many of the kids and teens I work with, that's actually a good thing. Older children and teens especially tend to open up more easily from a familiar environment — whether that's their bedroom, a quiet corner of the house, or wherever they feel most like themselves. Virtual therapy also means no commute, more scheduling flexibility, and one less barrier between your family and the support you need.
Something I feel strongly about: parents are not on the outside of this process. You are essential to it. I work closely with caregivers to make sure what happens in our sessions connects to real life at home, and I want you to feel informed and supported every step of the way.
I have experience supporting children and teens navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and family transitions. I also work with young adults and families, and I offer all of my services in both English and Spanish.
If you are looking for someone who will genuinely show up for your child and for your family, I would love to connect.
Areas of Focus
How I can help your child
Creating a safe, trauma-informed space to process painful experiences at your own pace, build coping skills, and begin to understand how trauma has shaped your thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Walking alongside you through some of life's most profound losses — whether you are mourning a person, a relationship, an identity, or a chapter of your life that can never return.
Helping clients understand where anxiety and depression come from, and building practical, sustainable skills to manage them — rather than just pushing through alone.
Supporting younger clients through trauma, big emotions, and life transitions using play therapy and expressive approaches that meet them where they are — not where we expect them to be.
Exploring who you are, who you want to become, and how to build genuine confidence — particularly for BIPOC and immigrant clients navigating complex cultural and personal identities.
Helping clients find their footing during major changes — a move, a loss, a shift in family structure, or any season of life that has left you feeling uncertain about what comes next.
Who I Work With
You deserve someone in your corner
My Approach
"I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued — empowered to recognize their own strengths and make meaningful changes at their own pace."
Lesley Velasquez, APCC #19583
Ready to Get Started?
Virtual openings available statewide in California
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. Whether you are reaching out for yourself, your child, or your family, I am here and ready to connect. A free 20-minute consultation gives us a chance to talk about what you are going through and decide together if we are a good fit.
Telehealth available statewide in California • Sessions in English & Spanish
What to Expect
Free 20-min consultation to see if we are the right fit, no commitment required.
Virtual sessions only via secure telehealth — available to all California residents.
Bilingual services offered in English and Spanish.
Insurance accepted: IEHP, Aetna, United Healthcare, and Optum. Private pay also accepted.