Meet Our Experienced Therapists in Vancouver

Meet Our Counsellors

At Leia Shay Counselling, each of our counsellors brings a unique set of skills, training, and lived experiences to provide personalized support to individuals, couples, and families.

We are committed to creating a safe and respectful space where your concerns are heard, and your healing is supported. Get to know our counsellors below, and see how their approach aligns with your needs.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Leia (Lauren) Shay

MSW, RCC, RSW

As the founder of Leia Shay Counselling, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals through the complexities of trauma, relationships, and personal growth. With a Master’s Degree from UBC and advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Narrative Therapy, my practice is deeply rooted in a trauma-informed, client-centred approach. I believe in the importance of a collaborative and respectful therapeutic relationship that empowers you to explore and address the challenges you face. Whether you are seeking help with trauma recovery, relationship issues, heartbreak, or sexual health, I am here to support you with compassion and care.

Areas of practice:

Trauma recovery (including intimate partner violence, childhood abuse and sexual assault)
Relationship counselling (monogamous and non-monogamous), Heartbreak and separation
Sexuality and sexual health concerns

Therapeutic Approaches:

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Somatic Therapy
Narrative Therapy
The Gottman Method
Sex Therapy

ACCEPTING NEW Clients

Alana Pace

Clinical Counselling Intern

Alana is a master’s candidate in Counselling Psychology at Simon Fraser University, working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and the unique dynamics of neurodivergence — including neurodivergent individuals and parents raising neurodivergent children. Her approach is rooted in the belief that each person is the expert in their own experience; healing and growth happen when people feel safe, understood, and met without judgment. Drawing on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT/EFIT), attachment theory, and a trauma-informed lens, Alana helps clients slow down, make sense of their emotional patterns, and build more secure connections — both with themselves and the people they love.

Before entering her graduate program, Alana spent years in psychological research focused on child development and neurodivergence, particularly autism and ADHD. That background gives her a grounded, informed perspective on neurodivergent experience that she brings directly into the therapy room.

Outside of her studies and client work, Alana can usually be found on her yoga mat, walking her border collies, or playing board games with her kids — practices that keep her own nervous system regulated and remind her why connection, presence, and play matter.

Discover the Benefits of Choosing

Leia Shay Counselling

Our counsellors are here to offer professional and compassionate support. We believe in tailoring our approach to meet your individual needs, helping you find clarity and strength. Whether you’re looking for trauma-informed therapy, relationship counselling, or support with sexual diversity, our team is here for you.

Meet Our Experienced Therapists in Vancouver

Meet Our Counsellors

Leia (Lauren) Shay

Alana Pace

Leia Shay Counselling

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