Monica Patricia Lester

Monica Patricia Lester, Ed.D., is a highly regarded Clinical Social Worker with nearly two decades of experience in providing comprehensive mental health services to individuals, children, couples, families, and groups. Throughout her career, she has skillfully addressed a range of issues, including substance abuse, behavioral challenges, mood disorders, anger management, PTSD, neurodevelopmental concerns, anxiety, self-image, stress, suicidal ideation, relationship dynamics, and LGBTQ matters. Monica adopts a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing a ‘wellness’ model that fosters improved well-being rather than solely focusing on illness. Utilizing a strengths-based, person-centered methodology, she encourages clients to identify and leverage their strengths. Her therapeutic goals include empowering clients to take actionable steps in their lives, practicing new skills, and cultivating healthier habits and perspectives. Monica is dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming environment, providing a safe space for healing. She firmly believes that the best predictor of success in therapy is the establishment of a strong rapport characterized by trust and respect, essential for a positive therapeutic alliance.