Lesley Schmaltz

Lesley Schmaltz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 16 years of experience. She brings a calm, approachable presence and focuses on building a trusting relationship with each person she meets.

She has worked in hospice care supporting terminally ill patients and their families, and in schools with elementary through high school students. She has also provided virtual psychotherapy for concerns such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, ADHD, and relationship and family issues.

Her practice draws on several therapeutic methods to match what each person needs. She uses Client-Centered approaches to listen and reflect what matters most to the client. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to help people identify unhelpful thinking and try new behaviors. Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and attachment-based ideas are used when emotions and relationship patterns are central concerns.

Lesley emphasizes working together to create a clear, simple treatment plan. Sessions focus on practical skills, supportive conversations, and gradual steps toward goals like coping better with stress, managing mood, or addressing grief. The tone in sessions is warm, accepting, and rooted in respect.

She received a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville in 2005. Lesley practices in Indiana and holds LCSW licensure in Indiana and Kentucky. She offers care in English and does not accept international clients at this time.

How these approaches can work online

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice unhelpful thoughts and commit to actions that match their values. It can be useful for anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes. Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on how early relationships shape patterns today and can help when connection and relationship patterns are causing pain. Client-Centered Therapy centers the person’s experience, giving space for them to lead while the therapist offers reflection and support.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful. Together they will try methods and adjust the plan based on what actually helps in day-to-day life.

Confirm current session options before booking, as formats are not listed here. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow brief check-ins when a full in-person visit would be difficult. It also makes it simpler to continue work after an intense event like a hospitalization or during caregiving periods. Ask about session length and scheduling when you complete the matching questionnaire so you can pick times that best fit your routine.