About Leah

I have spent 20 years in the mental health field, not only as a helping professional, but also as someone who understands firsthand what it means to heal.

My passion for this work grew out of my own journey. For many years, I felt stuck in almost all areas of life. I was especially struggling with my physical health and energy levels. Like many of the people I work with today, I spent years searching for answers. I explored therapy, medications, diets, supplements, alternative healing approaches, and countless other paths, always hoping to find the missing piece.

What ultimately changed everything was nervous system regulation.

For the first time, I understood why I had been stuck and why so many of my efforts hadn't created the lasting change I was seeking. As I began working with my nervous system, things started to shift. The changes were slow and subtle at first, but they were real, sustainable, and unlike anything I had experienced before. I wasn't simply managing symptoms. I was addressing the root.

That experience transformed the way I understand healing and continues to shape the work I do today.

Over the past four years, I have been part of Trauma Healing Accelerated, guiding and mentoring thousands of participants through virtual healing programs. Today, I am excited to bring this work to individuals and groups in the La Crosse area and beyond.

My approach is rooted in nervous system regulation and somatic parts work. I begin with the nervous system because healing happens when the body experiences greater safety and capacity. From there, somatic parts work helps people understand and relate to the different parts of themselves with greater awareness, compassion, and choice. Together, these approaches create a foundation for deep and lasting change.

People who work with me often describe me as compassionate, grounded, and authentic. I strive to create an environment where people feel safe enough to explore, heal, and reconnect with themselves.

Perhaps the greatest gift I bring to this work is my commitment to my own ongoing healing. I know how vulnerable this journey can be because I have walked it myself. That experience allows me to meet others with genuine empathy, curiosity, and respect for wherever they are in the process.

Healing is possible. I'm honored to walk alongside those who feel ready for a different approach.

Professional Background and Training

My work is informed by both professional training and ongoing personal practice. I continue to deepen my understanding of nervous system regulation, trauma healing, attachment, and somatic approaches through advanced training and study.

Education

  • Master's Degree in Counseling

Professional Experience

  • 20 years working in the mental health field
  • Four years with Trauma Healing Accelerated, guiding participants through nervous system regulation, trauma healing, and somatic parts work programs 
  • One year providing individual sessions and facilitating groups in the La Crosse area through partnerships with St. Clare Health Mission, Franciscan Spirituality Center, and Unity House.

Specialized Training

Nervous System Regulation & Trauma

  • Biology of Trauma Training, Dr. Aimie Apigian
  • Trauma Healing Accelerated Mentor Training Program, Dr. Aimie Apigian
  • Navigating Your Nervous System, Sarah Baldwin

Somatic Healing, Attachment & Parts Work

  • Somatic Attachment Therapy and Inner Relationship Focusing Certificate, The Embody Lab
  • You Make Sense: Somatic Healing and Parts Work, Sarah Baldwin
  • Securing and Thriving: Attachment and Nervous System Regulation, Sarah Baldwin
  • NeuroAffective Touch Training (in progress)

Yoga & Body-Based Healing

  • 230-Hour Holistic Yoga Teacher Training and Personal Transformation Program
  • Applied Polyvagal Theory in Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma Recovery, Dr. Arielle Schwartz

"I found Leah's guidance in our sessions to be gentle and easy going, and I am continuously surprised with how much of an effect even a short bit of work together has had on my sense of life and vitality."

A grateful client, La Crosse, Wisconsin