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About Genine Leighton, LMFT

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in private practice in Santa Cruz, California. I believe that healing is an active process and as a therapist, I am honored to be a part of that journey. Through my work, I have witnessed clients’ relationships, family life, personal happiness and professional lives improve as they heal from traumas from their past and/or current life challenges. 

If you have found me as you are navigating through a pregnancy, difficult birth, a loss, a NICU experience, fertility challenges and/or some part of all of these, this is a safe place to land. Processing through the many stages of pregnancy, birth, postpartum and infertility are vital for health. I specialize in reproductive mental health for you and your partner. This journey can be a challenging one, and having a support system as you navigate these waters, is a valuable part of healing. 

As a therapist, I work collaboratively and draw from a full range of life experiences adding depth to my work. I am a mother (human and dog), wife, friend, daughter, business professional, a happy runner, and an aspiring yogi. I was raised around the globe as the daughter of a Marine and State Department Diplomat. My love for maternal mental health began early. One of my most vivid memories is that of my youngest sister being born in Paris, France in a hospital room lit by candlelight surrounded by a nurturing care team. What a profound difference to my own first birth. Living and experiencing different cultures set a powerful base for my life’s work in maternal mental health. Now I call beautiful Santa Cruz home where I have lived for the past 20 years with my husband, kids and dogs.

I love to cook and believe an amazing meal shared with friends is a great antidote to a tough day. I value humor and know it is imperative to balance the hardships in life. I believe that being outdoors is soul soothing. And, that travel breathes life into our bones and invites us to view ourselves and others through new lenses. I believe in your innate ability to heal yourself, and I will help you access the tools so you can lead a healthier more joyful life.

License, Certifications & Memberships

  • California License Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC43460)

  • Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PSI)

  • Member of Postpartum Support International

  • Member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT)

    • Local and state chapter

  • Member Birth Network-Santa Cruz

  • Member of The Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health (APPPAH)

  • Completed Nursing Mothers Counsel training and volunteer 

My Approach

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been working with individual, couples and groups since 1997. I have provided mental health services for a wide range of clients in clinics, schools, hospitals, agencies, the foster care system and private practice.

  • I work collaboratively and believe in an active and dynamic therapeutic relationship.

  • I work in the here and now yet incorporate one’s past experiences in the development of current perspectives and behaviors.

  • I am a Perinatal Specialist and work with mothers and fathers, struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety, traumatic birth experiences and adjustment to parenthood.

  • I work with the entire range of reproductive experiences 

  • I have extensive experience working with trauma and trauma recovery.

  • I continue to train in couple’s counseling with Esther Perel, the Couple’s Institute and the Gottman Institute. I am constantly seeking education to better support healthy relationships.

  • I have special interest and training in mindfulness, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), neuroscience and attachment, Internal Family Systems, nutrition and impact on our mental health, sexuality and intimacy.

  • I work with the whole person, incorporating all the aspects of you and your life experiences into your therapeutic process.

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor in Child Development, San Diego State University

  • Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, San Diego State University

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