Meet Dr. Leslie Celis | Clinical Psychologist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Leslie Celis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Leslie, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“we have been taught to fear the very things that have the potential to set us free” ― Alok Vaid-Menon

As a mental health professional and fellow human being, I think it’s important to remember that aspects of identity and emotional sensitivity are often frowned upon in the name of presenting with a curated socially acceptable demeanor. One of the common ways people tend to end up pursuing services from my business is because over intellectualizing, demonizing, and judging themselves is no longer motivating. And it’s not their fault, it’s something that can become socialized and internalized from a very young age through generations because we live in a very shame-based society. Being an embodied human requires us to check in with ourselves holistically, by being in our bodies, honoring our feelings and accepting all the things that make us who we are. When we can embrace ourselves and others, that is liberation.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a first-generation, bilingual, queer, Latinx clinical psychologist in private practice. What sets my practice apart, is that I focus on providing services to those that have been underserved historically. Oppressed groups have always needed support and adequate healthcare, 2023 is no different. What makes me excited about this particular point in history is that more people of color are pursuing the health services that they deserve and through all kinds of avenues.

I have had to make some tough decisions to be where I am professionally. We live in a society that overworks and often exploits folx for their labor. Founding my business has given me enough freedom to do the work that I love while investing in other parts of myself at the same time.

I want people to know that it is possible to live a meaningful life and that work is only a small piece of that puzzle. I hope my story inspires others to honor themselves more.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I come from a family that is obsessed with Disney so if a friend was visiting in town, I’d probably take them to the Disney parks in Anaheim which aren’t necessarily local. For local LA exploring, I’d take them to the Science Center or the Natural History Museum which has a lovely rose garden. I love watching outdoor movies at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery during the summer and listening to live music at the Hollywood Bowl. Some of my favorite places to eat would be in areas like Silver Lake, DTLA arts district, or the Boyle Heights’ taco row. Mario’s Peruvian & Seafood in Hollywood and desserts in k-town are a must. The great thing about LA is that there are so many options.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, my family and friends deserve the biggest shout out of the century. Without them, I wouldn’t be who I am today personally and professionally. They are all such unique and special people that inspire me to be my most unique and special self. In my work, I have been influenced by a number of black and brown writers, healers, organizers and artists. Some of which include, Bell Hooks, Gabes Torres, Dr. Jennifer Mullan, Dr. Manuel Zamarripa, Alok Vaid-Menon, Prentis Hemphill, Jerry Tello, Leah Garza and Sonya Rene Taylor. Their works have helped me stay grounded and connected to the communities I am a part of and those that I service.

Website: www.drlesliecelis.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlesliecelis/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-celis-psy-d-88a492a6/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlesliecelis/

Other: https://mytherapistfriends.buzzsprout.com

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