Lesa Breding

Lesa Breding (208) 996-0404

lesabreding@gmail.com

Lesa Breding, MSW, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and group therapy for adults. She draws upon deep and broad experience including non-profit work, and oncology and lifestyle medicine in major healthcare settings. Lesa specializes in supporting people through life’s challenges with compassion, practical tools, and evidence-based care.

Services

Areas of Focus

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• Chronic illness
• Caregiver support
• Adjustment to new medical diagnosis
• Cancer; prevention, treatment, post-treatment, incurable disease, legacy work
• Life transitions; family system changes, career, aging, menopause, retirement, relocation

People come to therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes it’s to have a confidential space where they can feel truly seen and heard. Therapy also provides:

• A safe place to process big feelings, grieve a loss, heal wounds, or build resilience
• Support during life changes, problem-solving, or creating new habits
• Skills, tools, and accountability for personal growth
• A place to mentally or emotionally rest when life feels overwhelming

Research shows that one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy is the client-therapist relationship. When compatibility, trust, and safety are present, therapy works best. Combine that connection with Lesa’s clinical expertise, your own strengths and readiness for change, and a willingness to be open—and together you can create a path toward less suffering and more joy, even in the face of hard things.

Treatment Approach

Lesa’s practice is trauma-informed and integrates evidence-based models, including:

• Mind-Body Medicine (breathwork, guided imagery, mindfulness, meditation, expressive arts, movement)
• Lifestyle Medicine (physical activity, nutrition, sleep, stress management, connectivity, and avoiding risky substance use)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Motivational Interviewing
• Positive Psychology

Speaking Engagements

• Lesa is available for workshops, trainings, and community presentations on topics such as:
  • Stress Management
  • Lifestyle Mental Health
  • Mind-Body Medicine
  • Coping with Cancer
  • Coping with Chronic Illness
  • Mindful Eating

  Lesa tailors presentations to audiences ranging from healthcare providers to community groups.

Education

• Master of Social Work, Boise State University, 1996
• Bachelor of Psychology, Boise State University, 1992

Advanced Training

• The Center for Mind-Body Medicine: Professional Training Program (2024)
• City of Hope: Cognitive Behavioral and Related Interventions in Cancer Supportive Care (2020)
• Children’s Treehouse Foundation: CLIMB Program Facilitator (2012)
• Wellcoaches International: Wellness Coaching (2011)
• Am I Hungry?: Mindful Eating Program Facilitator (2011)

Licenses

• Idaho LCSW, 34641
• Oregon LCSW, L16125

Professional Memberships

• National Association of Social Workers
• Idaho Society of Clinical Social Work