Abby Leefer, LCSW-R - Perspectives Counseling of LI
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW-R
In-Person in Port Jefferson, NY 11777
Online in New York
Life can be messy, unpredictable, and overwhelming—and it’s normal to feel unsure about what to do sometimes. Our therapists have been there, and understand what it’s like to navigate life’s ups and downs. We use humanistic, client-centered approaches alongside evidence-based practices, to focus on you as a whole person, listen without judgment, and work together to help you find clarity and understand your life better, while offering support and practical guidance.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Family, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Children, Senior, Teen, Young Adult
Treatment Approach
- Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Helps people accept difficult thoughts and feelings instead of fighting them, while committing to actions that reflect their values. It blends mindfulness with practical behavior strategies.
- Behavioral Therapy Uses learning techniques like reinforcement and practice to change unwanted behaviors. It is often applied to phobias, anxiety, and habits.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Focuses on strengthening emotional bonds in couples or families. It helps people identify negative cycles and create more secure connections.
- Existential / Humanistic Therapy Encourages people to explore meaning, freedom, and authenticity in their lives. It focuses on personal growth and living in alignment with one’s values.
- Family Systems Therapy Looks at problems within the context of the family as a whole. It aims to improve communication and balance in family relationships.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) Helps clients heal by working with different ‘parts’ of themselves, like inner critics or wounded children. It fosters harmony within the self.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) A collaborative, client-centered approach that strengthens motivation for change. It is especially effective for addictions and health behaviors.
- Psychodynamic Therapy Explores unconscious thoughts and patterns that influence current behavior. It builds insight into how the past impacts the present.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Affordable sliding scale therapy: apply if you may be eligible.
- Sliding scale options available
- Accepts Insurance
- 1199 SEIU, Northwell Direct, Optum, UnitedHealthcare (UHC), United Medical Resources (UMR,) Blue Cross Blue Shield (includes Anthem and Excellus), Aetna, NYSHIP, Emblem Health - GHI, Cigna, Healthfirst, Oxford, Tricare EAST, Medicare
Education & Credentials
Abby Leefer, LCSW-R - Perspectives Counseling of LI LCSW-R
- Female
- License # 042715
- Licensed in New York
- Practicing Since 2004
Abby Leefer, LCSW-R - Perspectives Counseling of LI Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Port Jefferson, NY 11777
- Available Online for residents of New York
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly on edge—and not sure how to change it? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
At Perspectives Counseling of Long Island, we specialize in helping adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, stress, emotional overwhelm, and relationship challenges. Many of our clients come to us feeling frustrated with themselves—wanting to feel better, communicate better, and show up differently in their lives, but not knowing how to get there. Our practice was founded by Abby Leefer, LCSW-R, an experienced clinician with decades of work supporting individuals, couples, and families. Abby built PCLI on the belief that therapy should never be one-size-fits-all. Every person brings a unique story, and your therapy should reflect that. Our team takes a warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth approach. We actively help you understand what’s going on beneath the surface and give you tools you can actually use in your everyday life.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, or difficulties at home or in relationships, our team of therapists meet you where you are and help you move forward. We draw from evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and family systems work, but more importantly, we tailor everything to you—your goals, your personality, and what actually works in your life. Above all, we are committed to creating a space where you feel comfortable being honest—without fear of judgment. Therapy should feel like a place where you can exhale, gain clarity, and start making real, meaningful changes.
If you’re ready to feel more in control, more confident, and more like yourself again, we’re here to help.