Leonard Burns , LMFT

Leonard Burns is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California who brings a broad clinical background and years of experience to his therapeutic work. He trained in family systems and psychodynamic approaches and has also worked with EMDR techniques, blending these influences into a practical, relationship-focused practice that prioritizes honest connection as the foundation for change.

Over decades of work he has supported people confronting complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship and family challenges, cancer survivorship, and struggles around identity and nontraditional lifestyles. His technical skills have been honed through long-term practice with individuals and families from many walks of life, enabling him to tailor interventions to the shape of each person’s experience.

Leonard emphasizes the central role of a strong, transparent therapeutic relationship - a trustworthy bond he views as the essential platform from which healing and growth can proceed. He acknowledges that change can be difficult and sometimes frightening, and he offers steady, collaborative support for those ready to engage in that work. As a licensed clinician, he pairs clinical training with lived experience to help clients move toward greater resilience and clarity.

Approaches That Translate Well to Online Therapy

Leonard often integrates Attachment-Based Therapy, which focuses on how early relational patterns shape current relationships and emotional responses; this approach can help people working through intimacy, abandonment, or communication difficulties by exploring patterns and developing new ways of connecting. He also uses Client-Centered Therapy, a person-focused method that emphasizes empathy, acceptance, and listening to help clients find their own solutions and build self-awareness and confidence. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is another tool in his repertoire - it teaches practical skills for accepting difficult thoughts and feelings while clarifying personal values and taking meaningful action, useful for issues such as anxiety, stress, and coping with life changes.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey. Leonard approaches that decision collaboratively, assessing each person’s needs, goals, and preferences and adapting methods over time to find what fits best. He frames therapy as a partnership in which the selected techniques serve the client’s aims rather than dictating a single path.

Online sessions - whether by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging - make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life. These options provide scheduling flexibility, reduce travel time, and allow people to engage in care from different settings, supporting continuity and accessibility while working toward their goals with a licensed professional.