About Ericka
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Ericka Leonard, MSW, LCSW-C is an eating disorder therapist in Rockville, Maryland (who works with clients throughout Maryland and Virginia) who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults with eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder, as well as with survivors of trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Before joining the team at The Eating Disorder Center, she worked as the program director of a top residential eating disorder program for adolescents. She also has previous experience working as a therapist in an outpatient therapy practice, a domestic violence shelter, and a forensic interviewer at a child abuse center. Ericka has completed trainings in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Additionally, she has completed trainings in the treatment of anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. She has experience in working with trauma survivors and has done multiple speaking engagements talking about trauma at schools, conferences, and the department of education. Ericka is passionate about helping teens and adults to recover from eating disorders and reclaim their lives following trauma. |
My Approach
I tailor treatment to each individual client; however, I frequently draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a relational approach. I also practice from a Health at Every Size (HAES) informed approach to treatment and believe that all eating disorder treatment should be HAES-aligned.
I enjoy building trusting relationships and meaningful connections with my clients. I am compassionate and warm, yet firm in helping clients to challenge their eating disorders and ultimately to reach full recovery.
Eating disorders are often a symptom of underlying issues that a client may be grappling with. So, in my work with clients I address both the eating disorder thoughts & behaviors, as well as the underlying issues-which may include trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relational struggles.
In my work with trauma survivors, I create a safe space for clients to find healing after the impact of trauma.
I am so grateful to be able to help people to find freedom from eating disorders and heal from the aftermath of trauma-to live a life in alignment with their true values.
*I am taking on a limited number of new therapy clients. If spots are full, I am happy to refer you to another clinician or put you on a wait-list.
I enjoy building trusting relationships and meaningful connections with my clients. I am compassionate and warm, yet firm in helping clients to challenge their eating disorders and ultimately to reach full recovery.
Eating disorders are often a symptom of underlying issues that a client may be grappling with. So, in my work with clients I address both the eating disorder thoughts & behaviors, as well as the underlying issues-which may include trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relational struggles.
In my work with trauma survivors, I create a safe space for clients to find healing after the impact of trauma.
I am so grateful to be able to help people to find freedom from eating disorders and heal from the aftermath of trauma-to live a life in alignment with their true values.
*I am taking on a limited number of new therapy clients. If spots are full, I am happy to refer you to another clinician or put you on a wait-list.
'I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ericka for three years. From my 10 + years of working in the mental health field, she is one of the top therapists. Ericka’s clients thrive in part to her expertise, skill and passion when providing a high standard of care in each therapy session.
Ericka is one of the top experts in providing therapy for those struggling with eating disorders, trauma and childhood trauma. She keeps abreast of current research and evidenced-based treatments to assure clients are receiving the best treatment. Ericka is also gifted in providing excellent training to new or experienced therapists and provides supervision for those wanting to further their practice
As a therapist in the field, I always recommend clients to her and know they will be in good hands. She is one of the best out there and the field of Social Work and Counseling is lucky to have her."
Ericka is one of the top experts in providing therapy for those struggling with eating disorders, trauma and childhood trauma. She keeps abreast of current research and evidenced-based treatments to assure clients are receiving the best treatment. Ericka is also gifted in providing excellent training to new or experienced therapists and provides supervision for those wanting to further their practice
As a therapist in the field, I always recommend clients to her and know they will be in good hands. She is one of the best out there and the field of Social Work and Counseling is lucky to have her."