Leslie "Les" Gura, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
he/him
Are you stuck within a narrative you didn't count on? It may be causing emotional or physical pain, weariness and hopelessness. But narratives are only one piece of a person's overall story. As a lifelong writer and editor, my work after entering the counseling profession became teaming with clients to identify the narratives dominating life and also helping identify alternative, preferred narratives. Together, we figure out how to move toward those preferred narratives. It takes bravery to decide to change a narrative, and I deeply admire people who take the bold step to see a therapist. I'm excited to hear your every part of your story, and would like to work with you to bring insight, planning and action toward the narrative you'd like for your life.
Qualifications |
I arrived in my counseling career late in life, after nearly 30 years as a journalist, where my specialty was narrative storytelling and issues of social justice. I also spent several years in marketing and communications. My master’s degree in counseling from Wake Forest University (2019) was preceded by a master’s degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism (1987), as well as an undergraduate degree from New York University (1981). You see, I’ve lived the concept of changing narratives.
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Background & Specializations |
Before joining Banyan Tree, I was a therapist with CareNet Counseling in Winston-Salem, where I completed a two-year residency in psychotherapy and spirituality. I’m also trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and have a Level Two certification in trauma and resilience. I’m also a national certified counselor (NCC) and a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP). Because of the experience gained in my residency and trainings, I work within several counseling modes—but none is more important that the ability to listen and be present with you.
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Personal Life |
Born and raised in New York City, in the melting pot section of Queens known as Jackson Heights, my love of people and passion for life was instilled largely by my father. His dry cleaning story on the west side of Manhattan was a lively space filled with characters (employees and customers!); the four years I worked for him were a true joy and shaped every part of my life. After moving to Winston-Salem in 2002, I discovered how much I did not miss cold and snow, and how much I did love North Carolina beaches. I also joined a billiards league, and wound up meeting my wife in the pool hall. Today, we live in a quiet subdivision and enjoy our back yard, our two very different cats, our incredibly energetic dog, cooking indoors and outdoors, and most important, finding humor in the absurdities of life and ourselves.
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