Lesley Allen

B.S.W., M.S.W., R.S.W

Meet Lesley, a seasoned therapist practicing at Riverside Counselling and Psychotherapy. With over 20 years of dedicated experience, Lesley has supported countless individuals and families facing diverse life challenges. Lesley is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Western Ontario and a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Windsor. What Lesley values even more than her experience and degrees is her level of compassion and non-judgemental attitude, offering you a safe place to tell your story.

Her therapeutic approach is characterized by a relaxed, authentic style, allowing clients to lead while gently encouraging growth without pressure. Drawing from decades of professional experience and a rich personal journey, Lesley’s ethos is rooted in a commitment to non-judgment and acceptance.

Employing various therapeutic modalities, Lesley tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Her most used modality, given its evidence based success, is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); however, she holds certifications in Clinical Trauma and Resilience Practice and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Additionally, Lesley is trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family System Model (IFS), Mindfulness Practice, and Somatic Practice. She operates within a trauma-informed, strength-based framework, recognizing the importance of building a comfortable and trusting relationship with her clients.