About Lesley

I offer creative writing and mindfulness instruction to people of all ages, in groups and 1-1 sessions in person and via videoconference (e.g., Zoom.)

My work as an instructor spans over 35 years. I’ve taught public school in Los Angeles (LAUSD), creative and expository writing at universities (UMASS, Amherst and UCLA) and am currently the primary writing instructor-in-residence at Skirball Cultural Center. I hold an B.A in English from Reed College, an M.F.A. from UMass, Amherst (English and Creative Writing) and was a Fulbright Scholar to Mexico. I was a longtime member of the Los Angeles Editors and Writers Group.

My practice and study of mindfulness meditation began over 25 years ago. Although my own practice is rooted in Vipassana meditation and Theravada teachings, my classes and workshops are non-secular. I incorporate foundational mindfulness practices with Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) as well as Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness and the teachings that inform James Baraz’s Awakening Joy program. I am a member of the International Mindfulness Teachers Association.

Whether I am leading a writing workshop or a meditation class or a combination program, my approach to teaching and facilitation reflects my core belief that everyone deserves a safe environment where they can experiment, learn, and develop.

For writers and artists: There are stories only you can tell. Poems only you can write. Art only you can make.

For meditators: There is a way in to quieting the mind supported by practices that encourage real kindness to oneself and others.

For everyone: There is a knowing and creative vision that is unique to you, as well as a way of being that fosters an embodied awareness that all living things are connected. We are not alone.

Allow me to offer you new ways of exploring the landscape of your own mind, your own heart, your own imagination.