Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone has a story still to write.

Leslie Wiss, MA, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Maryville University. With a strong reputation for advancing trauma-informed care across Missouri, she brings a rare blend of clinical depth, strategic leadership, and compassionate presence to her work with both individuals and organizations.

Over the past decade, Leslie has served as a Senior Director in behavioral health, where she led large-scale initiatives designed to improve outcomes for children, families, and care systems. Her work includes overseeing agency wide certifications, shaping clinical policies and training, and guiding multidisciplinary projects that elevate quality and accountability. Despite her leadership role, Leslie has remained deeply connected to direct client care—believing that hands-on therapeutic work is essential to staying grounded, effective, and empathic.

But beyond credentials and titles is a personal journey that deeply informs her approach. Leslie experienced profound loss early in life and grew up navigating the realities of grief, trauma, and instability. As the oldest of three and a first-generation college student, she set out to break cycles of poverty, substance use, and insecure attachment—laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to healing work. Her path has been shaped equally by hardship and growth, giving her a grounded, relatable lens through which she supports others.

Leslie believes that healing is always possible, and that transformation begins with safety, trust, and connection. Her approach integrates neuroscience, attachment theory, trauma-informed principles, and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience. Whether working one-on-one with clients or guiding systems through meaningful change, she is known for her steady presence, clear insight, and unwavering commitment to sustainable impact. She especially finds purpose in helping family units strengthen their connection—supporting parents and children as they build trust, resilience, and meaningful relationships that endure.

Outside of her professional life, Leslie enjoys staying active through cycling and volleyball, nurturing her houseplants, and traveling to experience new cultures. She is a proud and engaged aunt—recently coaching her niece’s first tee ball team—and continues to find joy in the simple, grounding rituals of everyday life.