Meet Leo Garcia Pimentel Carral

Registered Social Worker

Hello! My name is Leo, and I am happy you are here! Seeking support can be challenging, so congratulations on this big step! 

I am a Registered Social Worker, who works primarily with youth (12+) and adults navigating trauma, dissociation, burnout, autism, conflict, systemic barriers, and relationship difficulties. As an openly transgender and Mexican therapist, I hold the deep belief that all people deserve care and support while building a life that feels fulfilling to live. My support often involves asking you questions, providing a safe space to explore important parts of yourself, your relationships and experiences, and understanding and preventing stigma in the therapy room. Supporting folks overcoming difficult mental health experiences, histories of trauma, adversity, and discrimination is something very close to my heart. 

I take a person-centred approach to therapy, meaning I support you in identifying goals and values you have. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy in my counselling approaches. The feedback I often receive on these evidence-based approaches is that people tend to feel validated, understood, with increased skills, in less internal conflict, and less overwhelmed by things that were previously more overwhelming. 

I hold a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University. I am also a lifelong learner, continually educating myself on the best ways to support people.  I have certifications in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and attended trainings on Internal Family Systems.

When I am not at work, you can find me giving Kittiana (cat) a treat, reading or hearing about the world, making art, or spending time with my community.