A fulfilled, vibrant life
is possible after trauma.

From one survivor to another, I wholeheartedly believe that every person has the innate ability to make the shift toward healing.

Book a free consult
Trauma-informed Survivor-led Somatic Experiencing Quesnel, BC & online Trauma-informed Survivor-led Somatic Experiencing Quesnel, BC & online

Every person has the innate ability to make the shift toward healing.

Lejla lying outdoors on the grass, smiling, holding her dog
Heal through Reconnection
Meet your counsellor

Hello, I'm Lejla.

I've had an extraordinary and, at times, extraordinarily difficult life. Through my own life struggles, I've been led to where I am now, holding a safe space for so many extraordinary humans, little and big. I feel lucky to do what I love, to use the life experience and wisdom combined with training and education, to support you while you navigate your own journey of becoming your authentic self.

Learn more about me

Qualifications

What is Somatic
Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing symbol

SE emphasizes the role of our nervous system and the body's innate ability to heal itself by recognizing and processing stored trauma through awareness of physiological experiences. In doing so, SE teaches patients to identify internal and external resources that offer new ways to cope with stress and trauma responses.

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A hand reaching gently toward fruit on a tree branch
Who I walk alongside

Five doors in, one steady approach.

Every person who sits across from me gets the same grounded, unhurried presence. These are the places I've built the deepest expertise.

Individual counselling

One-on-one space to work through trauma, anxiety, grief, or whatever you're carrying right now.

All ages

Couples

Working through the patterns that keep two people circling the same argument.

In-person & online

LGBTQ2S+ & gender diverse

An affirming space, no explaining required. You get to just be a person here.

Affirming practice

Autism & neurodivergence

Therapy shaped around how your mind actually works, not the other way around.

Neurodiversity-affirming

Trauma & the nervous system

Somatic Experiencing work for when the body is still holding what the mind has moved past.

SEP
Common questions

Frequently asked questions

What does a first session look like? +
The first session is mostly me listening. We'll talk about what brought you in, what you've already tried, and what you're hoping for. There's no intake form to fill out on the spot, just a conversation at whatever pace feels right.
How long does therapy usually take? +
It depends entirely on what you're working through. Some people find meaningful shifts in 8–12 sessions. Others choose to work together for a year or more.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person? +
For most of what I do, yes. The somatic work we do together translates well online. Your body is still in the room, even if we're on a screen.
Are you accepting new clients? +
Yes! I'm currently taking new clients for online sessions across BC.
Credentials & training

The paper behind the presence.

Education +
  • M.A., Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University (2023)
  • Bachelor of Education, University of Northern British Columbia (2020)
  • Elementary Teacher Credential, University of Sarajevo (1998)
  • Educational Assistant for Children with Exceptionalities Program (2009)
Clinical training +
  • Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP)
  • Currently assisting in beginning-level Somatic Experiencing trainings across North America and Europe
  • Janina Fisher's Trauma Treatment Certification (CCTP): The Latest Advances and Proven Techniques to Resolve Deeply Held Trauma
  • Trauma & Grief Dual Certification Course: Expert Treatment of Loss, Acute and Complex Trauma, and Co-Occurring Issues
  • Moving Past the Trauma of Betrayal and Infidelity
  • Resentment Support for Couples Post-Infidelity
  • EFT for Couples
  • Autism Training, POPARD (Provincial Outreach Program for Autism and Related Disorders)
Registration & standing +
  • Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
  • Registered Professional Teacher, British Columbia
  • Licensed by the Province of British Columbia (#21307)
Specialized populations +
  • Individual counselling
  • Couples & relational therapy
  • LGBTQ2S+ affirming practice
  • Autism & neurodivergence-affirming approach
Find her elsewhere +