

Welcome to...
About me
I’m Leigh Apperley of LAVA Counselling Services. I obtained my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and have been practicing as a therapist in Red Deer and Central Alberta since late 2018. I enjoy meeting new clients and building an understanding of their concerns and goals for the future. I am a believer that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their life.
I specialize in the areas of trauma, anger, depression, anxiety, grief, motherhood, attachment and relationships. I use trauma informed, narrative, emotion-focused, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills, and EMDR therapy to support clients.

Services

Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT was designed to help individuals manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthy coping skills. Can be especially helpful for those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, or relationship challenges.

Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR helps individuals process and heal from distressing memories and trauma. This approach is especially effective for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other emotionally charged experiences.

Trauma Informed Therapy
Trauma Informed is an approach that recognizes the deep impact trauma can have on a person’s emotional, physical, and mental well-being. This type of therapy prioritizes safety, trust, choice, and empowerment, creating a supportive space where healing can begin at your own pace.

Adolescent Therapy (13-18)
Adolescent therapy offers a supportive space for teens to explore their thoughts, build coping skills, and navigate challenges in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

Young Adult Therapy (18-25)
The transition into adulthood can be exciting, overwhelming, and filled with uncertainty. Therapy for young adults offers a supportive space to explore identity, build confidence, and navigate life’s challenges.

Adult Therapy (26+)
Adult life can bring a wide range of experiences—both fulfilling and challenging. Therapy provides a space to reflect, heal, and grow through life’s complexities.

Reach Out
lavapsychservices@gmail.com
403-596-2300
Select the button below to book a free 15 minute discovery call to get your therapy journey started today!

"The dark does not destroy the light; it defines it. It's our fear of the dark that casts our joy into the shadows."
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-Brene Brown
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Frequently asked questions
How long is a therapy session?
50-60 minutes. It's best to find natural ending to the session and give time to reschedule.
What is the price for a therapy session?
$200 per session
Do you accept benefit providers?
Some benefits providers like Green Shield, ASEPB, Sunlife, and any using Telus eClaims, can be used. It’s best to check your benefit coverage for Counsellors prior to sessions. Direct billing isn't available for all benefit companies.
Do you take on Families or Couples?
I do not have the space to manage couples or families, however, if you are in need I can provide you with great referrals.
What is the Cancellation Policy?
Clients are allowed one late cancellation without penalty. When late cancellations have become a pattern, they are charged at the rate of 50% of the session fee.
Does everything I say in session stay confidential?
Confidentiality is an ongoing process in any therapeutic relationship. Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association sets practice and ethical guidelines for all Counsellors. One guideline ensures confidentiality of clients information, sessions, and client information, etc. At your first session your therapist should discuss confidentiality and its limits.
