Simone Leavell-Bruce, Psy.D.

Licensed Psychologist

Dr. Simone Leavell-Bruce is a psychologist at the Behavioral Wellness Clinic, who has worked closely with Dr. Monnica Williams for many years. She earned her doctorate from Spalding University in Louisville, KY. She completed her predoctoral internship at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC-C), where she has also completed a postdoctoral fellowship. She is licensed in North Carolina.

Dr. Leavell-Bruce holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Spalding University and a Master of Science from Capella University. She also conducted mental health research and completed several graduate courses at the University of Louisville. She received her BA degree in Psychology from the University of Kentucky in Lexington.

Treatment Tailored to Each Client

Dr. Leavell-Bruce has expert knowledge in the assessment and treatment of all types of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related anxiety disorders, and she provides training and supervision to other clinicians for OCD. Other clinical areas of specialty include hoarding disorder, health/illness anxiety, adjustment disorders, and social anxiety. Dr. Leavell-Bruce has received extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and utilizes the gold-standard, evidence-based modality to treat OCD, Exposure and Ritual Prevention (ExRP). She also utilizes mindfulness practices and aspects of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in her work.

Dr. Leavell-Bruce is highly knowledgable of mental health issues related to racism and discrimination, having completed her dissertation on "The psychological and physical association of race-based trauma among racial justice activists of color." She practices from a social justice-oriented lens and is passionate about recognizing the impact of race-related stress and trauma on Black and Brown communities. Dr. Bruce has facilitated talks and contributed to the psychological literature on topics including OCD, hoarding disorder, and race-based trauma. She views the therapeutic relationship has a primary mechanism of change and promotes a collaborative and person-centered approach. She also recognizes the importance of culture and identity pieces and strives to practice from a culturally responsive framework that prioritizes diversity and multicultural differences.

In her spare time, Dr. Leavell-Bruce enjoys spending time with her family and exploring all that North Carolina has to offer.

Dr. Simone Leavell-Bruce in the Media

Dr. Joseph Ravenell. (2022, April 11). OCD and the Black community, featuring Dr. Simone Leavell-Bruce. Health Equity Now. SiriusXm Doctor Radio (Channel 110).

Laurence, E. (June 30, 2020). Experiences of Racism and PTSD Go Hand in Hand—Here’s How To Support Yourself During This Particularly Intense Time. Well + Good.

Mazu, A. (2020. July 13). Woman speaks out about alleged anti-Black racism at Kingston military organization. Global News.

Nutritious Life. (2020). Why Self-Care is Crucial For People of Color (and Especially Activists). Nurture Yourself, Nutritious Life.

Hartman, Chad. (2020, July 25). Dr. Bruce on the Radio. Polite "Foxy" Racism WCCO, Minneapolis, MN.