Leah Perkins
(she / her)
LPC, Therapist
Leah’s professional journey reflects a dedicated path in the mental health field, starting with her experience in special education and transitioning to various roles focused on supporting individuals with complex needs. Leah initially worked as a one-on-one Para educator with children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder, which provided her with foundational experience in supporting individuals with special needs. In 2019, Leah began her clinical work at the Oregon State University free clinic, where she gained experience in providing mental health services to a diverse client population. Leah then completed her internship at a residential treatment facility focused on individuals with substance use disorders and dual diagnoses, deepening her understanding of addiction treatment and co-occurring mental health issues. After completing her master’s degree from Oregon State University, Cascades, Leah transitioned to a community mental health agency. Here, she continued to work with individuals with dual diagnoses, gaining further expertise in this specialized area. Prior to coming to the Academy at Sisters, Leah had been working at a semi-private practice setting, where she continued to work with clients who have complex needs.
Leah’s therapeutic approach is client-centered, emphasizing meeting the client where they are at in their journey. She is trained in several evidence-based modalities: EMDR Therapy: Used for trauma reprocessing, DBT Skills (Dialectical Behavior Therapy): Helpful for emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Effective for addressing thought patterns and behaviors and Motivational Interviewing: A technique to evoke motivation for change. Additionally, Leah incorporates creative therapies such as art, music, and writing, allowing clients to express themselves and aid in trauma reprocessing.
Leah’s diverse background and training equip her with skills to address the complex needs of her clients, integrating both traditional therapeutic approaches and creative modalities to foster healing and growth. Her journey reflects a commitment to understanding and supporting individuals with various mental health and developmental challenges.