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Meet Tara-Leigh

Hi, my name is Tara-Leigh. I am a therapist, social worker, post secondary instructor and the principal owner of SISU Treatment & Consulting Services.

 

Throughout my career, I have been called to "the gap," where people and groupings' voices have been silenced by oppression. I desire to see people's stories marred by silence and shame released through speaking their stories aloud, unearthing their resilience, and stepping into their purpose without shame.

I bring my personal and professional experience to the table when addressing difficult issues that are frequently silenced. I empathically hold space for those prepared to reckon with those issues and narratives of violence, abuse, sexuality, betrayal, and the trauma that results from systematic abuse within both secular organizations and faith-based contexts.

 

In my over 30 years of work within the criminal justice system, I have gained experience in a wide variety of areas, including corrections, forensic psychiatry, health, mental health, post-secondary instruction, and the provision of treatment and support to victims and survivors of sexual violence. In addition, my background in the church has provided me with a unique and diverse landscape, giving me lived experience, insight, and the ability to confront complex issues.

 

I have spoken at various events, such as the Women's Speaker Collective on sexual offending and domestic violence within the Evangelical church and the Red Deer College's Psychology Symposium on sexual violence and issues related to men's mental health.

 

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Trinity Western University, a Bachelor of Social Work (Distinction) and a Master of Social Work both from the University of Calgary, and a Masters in Leadership and Management (summa cum laude) from Briercrest Seminary.

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I recently acquired my Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) status and my Approved Clinical Supervisor status with the Alberta College of Social Workers.

 

Through our conversations, you will leave asking questions you haven't asked before, reflecting on your relationship to the issue, and be empowered with hope and resilience.

 

I look forward to working with you.

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Associations

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