Grace Leader, MHC-LP, is a compassionate and dedicated mental health counselor with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices and a deep commitment to supporting individuals in their journey toward emotional well-being.
Grace’s clinical experience includes providing individual and couples counseling during her internship at a hospital-affiliated psychiatric outpatient clinic in Albany, NY. There, she worked with a diverse adult population, addressing a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and substance use disorders. She applies a flexible and integrative therapeutic approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs. Her professional journey includes roles in crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, elderly care, and peer support, each contributing to her holistic understanding of mental health. Notable experiences include volunteering as a crisis hotline worker for Middle Earth, providing compassionate support to distressed individuals, and assisting residents at a men’s substance abuse facility. Grace also worked as an activity aide in an elderly rehabilitation facility and as a Resident Assistant at the University at Albany, supporting students navigating the challenges of college life during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Grace’s passion for behavioral health was ignited during the pandemic when she witnessed the profound impact of isolation and uncertainty on mental well-being. This pivotal experience inspired her to pursue a career dedicated to bridging the gap in accessible and culturally competent mental health care, particularly for underserved populations.
Outside of her professional life, Grace enjoys traveling, exploring her South American Guyanese and African American heritage, and staying active through hiking, Pilates, and adventurous activities like zip-lining. She is also learning to play the piano and guitar and finds inspiration in faith-based literature. Grace’s multifaceted interests and empathetic nature enable her to connect deeply with clients from diverse backgrounds, fostering a therapeutic environment that promotes growth, resilience, and healing.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Psychology, with a minor in Law and Philosophy, from the University at Albany in Albany, NY, in May 2023. She is set to graduate with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling, accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC), from the University at Albany in January 2025