Therapist in San Francisco, California Emma Leighton, Therapist

Emma Leighton, LMFT, helps individuals and couples across California build healthier relationships with themselves and others through thoughtful, collaborative therapy. As a Marriage & Family Therapist at LifeStance Health, she supports teens, adults, and seniors who navigate anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Emma offers a compassionate and structured space where clients can explore their experiences, gain insight, and develop practical skills that support emotional wellbeing and lasting change. Emma is especially passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring gender identity. She recognizes that identity development, self-acceptance, and navigating societal or family expectations can be deeply personal and sometimes complex experiences. Emma approaches this work with respect, curiosity, and affirmation, helping clients build confidence, strengthen self-understanding, and develop strategies for navigating relationships and life transitions while honoring their authentic selves. In her clinical work, Emma frequently supports individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as couples seeking to strengthen communication and rebuild connections. She incorporates evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and couples counseling techniques to help clients identify patterns, shift unhelpful thinking, and create more fulfilling relationships. Emma works with teens and adults at many stages of life and has experience supporting individuals through transitions such as grief, midlife changes, and later-life adjustments. She also offers additional therapeutic approaches tailored to each client’s needs. Emma believes therapy should be a collaborative process where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow. She strives to create a warm, supportive environment where people can safely explore difficult emotions while building practical tools for resilience and personal growth. Outside of her clinical work, Emma enjoys salsa dancing, yoga, reading, cooking, and exploring new places through travel.