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Dr. Leigha Ward is a Licensed Psychologist and sex therapist in Austin, Texas. She works primarily with adult and adolescent clients who would like to feel empowered to improve their mental health and relationships. In addition to general mental health care for presentations such as anxiety and depression, Dr. Ward specializes in sex therapy and reproductive psychology, assisting clients presenting with challenges in their sex lives, relationships, and pregnancy- or fertility-related concerns. In addition to her psychological training, Dr. Ward practiced as a labor and delivery nurse for 20 years, providing her with unique medical knowledge and insight into birth complications and trauma.
Dr. Ward is trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which assists clients in identifying the origins of emotional challenges and processing these challenges with empathic insight through a new lens. In session, Dr. Ward focuses on helping clients to utilize self-compassion as they navigate difficulties with their mental health and relationship concerns, empowering them to find strength and healing in learning about their desires for their own lives, work, and relationships. This approach supports clients to believe in their ability to accept their limitations and thrive using their unique gifts and strengths.
Dr. Ward utilizes humor and storytelling to help clients to feel comfortable and "normal." Clients will find that they can absolutely navigate their lives with newfound strength, hope and acceptance. Dr. Ward strives to provide a relaxed atmosphere of collaboration and a therapeutic relationship that allows clients to feel comfortable and safe.
Dr. Ward received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Argosy University - San Francisco Bay Area Campus, and she received predoctoral training in community mental health and postdoctoral experience in the private practice setting. Her nursing and therapy backgrounds combine to provide a unique therapy experience for her clients.
Years of Experience: 10 years
Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)
LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics - Exploring topics of sexuality, gender, and identity; coping with discrimination and oppression; navigating relationship, family, and cultural challenges
Pregnancy, perinatal, postpartum mental health - Addressing issues specific to women and families during the pregnancy and postpartum period, including postpartum depression and anxiety
Relationship issues - Understanding one’s wants and needs in relationships; exploring patterns of interaction, addressing concerns, and strengthening satisfaction in relationships and dating
Sexual health & dysfunction - Addressing emotional, physical, and biological concerns related to sexual intimacy and functioning; education and skill building around topics such as erectile dysfunction, orgasms, low libido, shame, and history of abuse; improving communication to realize a fulfilling sex life
Nonmonogamy, polyamory, and kink - Exploring one’s values in and beliefs about relationships; practicing boundary-setting, conflict resolution, and romantic or sexual relationship bonding with partners
Beginning April 1, 2024, Dr. Ward will move to a completely virtual practice model. In-person sessions may be possible twice a month upon request, but these sessions will likely fill up quickly.
This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:
Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.