LISA SCHLESINGER: Psychoanalyst, LCSW-C
Let me introduce myself
I practice both Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. Both treatments offer lifelong relief from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, panic disorder, eating disorders, personality problems, self-esteem difficulties, and chronic emptiness and loneliness. I have a private practice in Bethesda, Maryland where I see patients from Bethesda, Rockville, Kensington, Chevy Chase, Northern Virginia, and DC Metro Area. I also offer online therapy for patients who can’t easily get to my office.
Education and Certification
I have been practicing Psychotherapy for over 20 years. I earned a MSW from the University of Maryland in 1992 and have been in practice since 1994. I have completed advanced training at the Washington School of Psychiatry and the Washington Center for Psychoanalysis. At the Washington Center for Psychoanalysis, I completed the modern perspectives program in addition to a year long infant observation. I am currently in study at the Contemporary Freudian Society. Over the last 13 years, I’ve worked alongside several senior analysts and psychotherapists as well as study groups in a continual effort to advance my understanding of theory and technique.
I have training in individuals, families, children and couples. I treat anger, rage, envy, jealousy, sexual abuse,neglect, and trauma. In addition, I am certified in short-term therapies for both depression and anxiety disorders.
I’m a member of NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) and NASW (National Association of Social Workers).
My Philosophy
Psychotherapy is for anyone interested in feeling better. I believe that our difficulties come from early experiences which do not need to define us in the present. My job is to help you understand the reasons for your suffering, whether it is in your relationships or with an internal aspect of yourself. I am here to help you understand what you can change and to learn have more acceptance of what you can’t. Therapy should be an environment where you can speak freely and authentically. It is about learning, recognizing and acknowledging the parts of your mind that were previously dormant yet have been affecting your well being. It’s about having a safe relationship to explore your mind, thoughts, and feelings with freedom and authenticity. As sessions unfold, therapy is a space for you to talk about your life, your longings, your thoughts, and your feelings. Over time the expectation is that you will experience relief from suffering and develop in desired areas. You can expect to feel less fragmented in your thinking and to obtain sustained strength as the prohibited thoughts and feelings can be allowed.
In my experience, true peace of mind and contentment come from connectedness to people and to understanding oneself. There is no substitute for the knowledge, flexibility, and strength gained from an effective psychotherapeutic relationship.
Probably the most important part of the work is your feeling that you can be authentic with me. I do believe that the more times per week you can commit to therapy, the quicker and deeper your growth will be. A combination of factors lead to change: a comfortable relationship with the therapist is instrumental in effecting sustainable change. Another factor is your willingness to describe your thoughts openly and frankly no matter how uncomfortable you may be, knowing that psychotherapy is a contained venue to learn about yourself. Lastly, it is my capacity to listen to you on many levels, interpret my understanding, and to help you be aware of the many levels of your struggle in our therapuetic relationship. We will work together to understand and deal with the issues that are most important to you. Your discontent is most important to me.
FAQ
Do I accept insurance?
I am not a provider for any insurance networks. I see private patients who will pay at the time of service and to whom I will give a statement to submit to insurance.
I might be considered an out-of-network provider for some insurance plans. Check with your insurance plan to see what part of my fees will be covered. I can provide you with statements at the end of the month which can be submitted to your insurance company, if possible. I will give you the proper codes to enable you to speed up the reimbursement process.
You should receive reimbursement when possible and I do offer reduced fees for multiple sessions per week, as well as for a psychoanalysis.
What about medication?
I am not a physician and thus do not prescribe medication. However, I can provide you with the appropriate referral if you would like to discuss your medication options.
In therapy, we can address issues that you may face and that you may be receiving medication for – such as anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders . Psychotherapy in addition to medication is often considered the best intervention for certain mental health problems.