Lea D. Hart, MA

Lea Hart decided to pursue graduate studies after experiencing the vast inequity of quality mental health care across the country while growing up in the Midwest. She has accumulated diverse clinical experiences across university health and counseling programs, residential trade programs, community mental health centers and intensive outpatient settings. Additionally, she has conducted comprehensive psychological assessments, including for autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other diagnostic evaluations in rural health care settings.

Her clinical approach is relational, collaborative and grounded in cognitive-behavioral theory with a strong emphasis on cultural and trauma-informed care. She aims to foster resilience in her clients and create a safe, welcoming space that promotes long-term growth. Hart said she believes meaningful change begins with a nonjudgmental exploration of core beliefs and values that shape our lives.

Hart has received two grants for her research on anxiety interventions and group therapy in university settings. Additionally, she has conducted research in supervision models and employee belongingness. She completed and defended her dissertation on The Effectiveness of an Anxiety Intervention on Decreasing State and Trait Anxiety Among University Students.

Outside her studies, Hart enjoys discovering the best local coffee shops, baking sourdough, running and spending time outdoors. 

Professional affiliations

Oregon Psychological Association
American Psychological Association
Christian Association of Psychological Studies