Mrs. Leslie Taylor
M.S.W., B.S.W., R.S.W
Community Outreach, Group Therapy, Individual therapy, Navigation and Assessments
With over a decade of dedicated experience in the field of disabilities and caregiving, I bring a unique and empathetic perspective to my professional practice. Living with ADHD and being a parent to children with ADHD has enriched my understanding and passion for this specialization. My personal journey with a late ADHD diagnosis, combined with my ongoing training, empowers me to provide insightful and compassionate support to my clients.
My qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Disability Studies, as well as a Master’s in Social Work. I am committed to continuous learning, engaging in ongoing training on various therapeutic modalities and subject matter to stay at the forefront of best practices.
I am a proud member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA), ensuring that my practice adheres to the highest professional standards. My professional experience spans various aspects of addiction and mental health, including specialized training from Problem Gambling and Internet Addiction at Hotel Dieu, as well as substance addiction treatment at Brentwood Recovery Home. Additionally, my training and development at Hospice Leamington have deepened my skills in providing comprehensive and empathetic care when encountering grief.
My expertise extends to working with individuals with both diagnosed and undiagnosed mental illnesses, offering tailored support and strategies to help them navigate their unique challenges. I utilize various therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and positive psychology. Together, we will find the treatment approach that aligns with your unique path and goals.
Whether you are dealing with ADHD, other disabilities, or are a caregiver seeking guidance, I am committed to offering the highest level of support and understanding to help you thrive.
The journey to now
The road to a dream
I was raised in a loving home with strong values and desire to give back to community. My parents separated when I was too young to recall them together, and my mother later remarried a man who filled the paternal role until his passing in my mid-twenties. The man that became my father significantly impacted my life and was the dad that I needed rather than a step father.
Despite my parents' hard work, financial hardships persisted. During my formative years, my mother's illness and subsequent disability led me to assume numerous caregiver responsibilities, prioritizing the welfare of my family. Witnessing addiction and mental illness firsthand from various family members and those I loved profoundly influenced my life direction.
Initially delving into retail management, I cultivated relationships and facilitated growth among my team. Transitioning to a decade-long career in Canada Pension Plan disability, I closely supported clients through their toughest times. Seeking further impact, I pursued higher education while concurrently engaging in Peer Support, eventually leading to roles as a counselor, team lead, and center coordinator.
Amidst these endeavors, a late ADHD diagnosis for myself and my children prompted a deep exploration of its effects on our lives, influencing my academic pursuits. Through hands-on experience, I gained expertise in addiction treatment and end-of-life care, expanding my understanding of mental health and social factors' interconnectedness.
Continuing to view my work through an ADHD lens, both personally and professionally, I persist in broadening my knowledge base. My ultimate goal remains unchanged: to effect positive change in others' lives, whether through advocacy, policy development, or therapeutic intervention. Transitioning to private practice affords me the opportunity to continue this mission, offering vital services and fostering an inclusive, supportive community.
I am a spouse, a parent, and a step-parent, having been married for 18 years and deeply understanding the effort required for a thriving relationship. Inspired by my father's example, I embraced the role of step-parent first, cultivating a close bond with the young adult who was the easiest to welcome into our family. Despite facing infertility challenges and the sorrow of miscarriage, we were blessed to welcome two more children into our lives. Residing in Leamington for the past decade, we have actively engaged with the community through volunteering on committees and coaching a variety of sports.
The journey of life in all its ups and downs have lead me here, to create Attentive Counselling – your haven for growth, validation, and community.
Why I Care
Your well-being is at the heart of everything I do. It’s about providing a space where you feel truly heard and supported.Your journey is unique, and every story matters.