About Katie Leikam, LCSW

banner image

Gender Therapist & LGBTQIA Specialist



Helping People Live Authentically—Your Journey, My Commitment

From the earliest days of my career, I’ve felt a deep‑seated purpose in supporting people to live as their truest selves. My heart belongs to the LGBTQIA community, especially to transgender and gender‑expansive individuals seeking compassionate, knowledgeable care. If you’re looking for a gender‑affirming therapist to accompany you through transition, I’m here to walk beside you.


As a dedicated gender specialist, I invest countless hours in advanced education and continuing‑education opportunities. I regularly attend national gatherings such as the Philadelphia Trans Wellness Conference, Gender Odyssey, and WPATH meetings. I am a WPATH GEI SOC v8 certified professional—a credential that reflects more than 50 hours of intensive study, individualized mentorship, and successful completion of a comprehensive competency exam focused on transgender and gender‑expansive care. In addition to my clinical work, I frequently speak publicly and teach courses on mental wellness within the trans community.



Listening First, Guiding Gently

The cornerstone of my practice is belief in the truth of every client’s self‑identification. When you tell me you are transgender or gender‑expansive, I accept that statement wholeheartedly. My role is not to define you, but to listen deeply and serve as a trusted guide as you explore and affirm your own identity. Your experience is the expertise; I simply help illuminate the path.



Navigating Religious Trauma with Sensitivity

Raised in a Southern religious household, I intimately understand how spiritual teachings can become sources of pain. As a secular therapist, I keep religion out of the therapy room, creating a safe space where we can address the wounds of religious trauma without judgment. My background gives me a nuanced perspective that often resonates with clients who share similar histories.



Living with Chronic Pain or Illness

Drawing from my own lived experience and evidence‑based research, I work with individuals coping with chronic pain or illness to regain a sense of agency. While therapy cannot eliminate physical symptoms, we can collaborate to:

  •  Reduce the emotional toll of flare‑ups
  • Develop coping strategies that empower daily decision‑making
  • Confront medical oppression when it arises

Together we’ll strive for moments where you can breathe freely, fel calmer, and re‑engage with life on your terms.



ADHD, Autism, and Neurodivergence

If attention, focus, or the relentless effort of masking leaves you exhausted, I’m equipped to help. My most valuable training comes from truly hearing the neurodivergent community—understanding the specific frustrations and strengths you bring. Through tailored interventions we can:

  • Build practical organization and time‑management systems
  • Foster self‑acceptance beyond societal expectations
  • Move you closer to a life defined by your values, not by external norms


A Little About Me Outside the Office

When I’m not in the therapy room, you’ll often find me at a live concert, letting the rhythm of the music and the energy of the crowd renew my cup. Music reminds me that people of all backgrounds can come together, share a beat, and feel hopeful for society.

I’m also a proud multiple‑dog‑and‑cat parent. I love asking clients about their pets and don’t mind at all when a wagging tail pops onto the screen or a doorbell triggers a burst of barking. Those light‑hearted moments keep me grounded and remind me how joy can appear in the simplest of interactions—something I bring into therapy whenever appropriate.



What Therapy Looks Like With Me

Therapy is a profoundly personal partnership. My style blends thoughtful inquiry, direct feedback, and educational insight—all aimed at deepening your self‑knowledge. Sessions are:


  • Thought‑provoking: We challenge assumptions and uncover hidden patterns.
  • Empowering: You leave with concrete tools and renewed confidence.
  • Emotionally resonant: Space is always made for vulnerability and growth.


I invite you to begin this journey of self‑exploration. Reach out for an appointment, and let’s create a therapeutic space where you can breathe, be seen, and thrive.


Contact me today to schedule your first session.

I invite you to join in that exploration of self by contacting me and reaching out for an appointment here. 

My Education & Experience

Licenses

  • LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in Georgia
  • LISW-CP (Licensed Independent Social Worker – Clinical Practitioner) in South Carolina
  • LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in North Carolina
  • LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in Texas
  • Registered Telehealth provider in Florida
  • WPATH GEI SOC v8 Certified by the World Professional Association of Transgender Health

Memberships

  • World Professional Association of Transgender Health since 2017 - GEI certified since first inception in 2020
  • Georgia Society for Clinical Social Work 2017- 2024
  • The Secular Therapists Network since 2017
  • Out Georgia Business Alliance 2018 - 2025 Previous Board Member, Membership Chair
  • Atlanta Independent Women’s Networking 2018-2022, Previous Board Member
  • National Association of Social Workers

Education

  • University of Georgia, MSW – Master’s in Social Work
  • Mercer University, MBA – Master’s in Business Administration Marketing Specialization
  • Georgia State University B.S. Psychology
  • Gordon State College A.A. in Psychology

Memberships

Press

Katie Leikam, LCSW, LISW-CP has been quoted in the major news outlets.  
She has also been featured on multiple news outlets including The GA Voice, Bustle, and Rewire.

Featured Press & Podcasts

Reach out to me today!

Please complete the form below to schedule an appointment.
I will try my best to accommodate your request and will be in touch ASAP.

By submitting this form via this web portal, you acknowledge and accept the risks of communicating your health information via this unencrypted email and electronic messaging and wish to continue despite those risks. By clicking "Yes, I want to submit this form" you agree to hold Brighter Vision harmless for unauthorized use, disclosure, or access of your protected health information sent via this electronic means.