Angela Leavens B. SC., M. Ed., COMS
In the picture above, I'm the one in the red sweatshirt that proudly reads "Canada". With me are my two sons, my partner and my parents. Mom is holding her cane and standing next to her is my dad.
I am very proud of my unique upbringing. Both of my parents are blind so I've had a lifetime of learning the impact that vision loss can have on daily living. As a family we did all the same things as others but some things were just done differently in our household. There are challenges in raising a family, work and fulfilling dreams whether you have full vision or not. My parents have always found ways to accommodate for their vision loss. My parents lead by example and achieve what others might think is impossible for people with vision loss.
Knowing that there is a great need for services to help people who have lost their vision regain confidence and develop independence, I established Leavens Vision Loss Rehabilitation.
Deanne Elsner MSW, RSW
Deanne has been a therapist for over 15 years and in that time has worked with adolescents, young adults, adults, families and couples. She received a Masters of Social Work (MSW) with Clinical Specialization in 2005 and is a registered Social Worker with The Alberta College of Social Work (ACSW).
Deanne has training in a variety of therapeutic approaches and creates a unique plan with each client to meet their specific needs and goals. She has advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). She also has training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which uses eye movements to help process trauma.
The foundation of Deanne’s work is built on creating a strong therapeutic relationship with each client, in which they feel understood and cared for. From this place, Deanne works with clients to identify the thoughts, feelings and situations that hook them and pull them away from living their best life. She helps clients to expand their psychological flexibility by learning skills to help them to unhook by become more present, opening up and to doing what matters.
Deanne has a background in mental health and can screen for specific mental health problems and make recommendations for further assessment if needed.
Jen Pierce-Ager B. A., B. Ed., M. A., COMS
Teacher for the Visually Impaired (TVI)
Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS)
My work as a TVI began in 2015 and was quickly followed by registering with ACVREP as a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS). I have supported children and youth from 2.5 years old to post Grade 12.
I enjoy working with people of all ages to improve upon their independent living skills and always strive to implement fun into my lessons. Helping individuals and their families understand how the visually impaired can experience success in their travels is very rewarding.
Angela Leavens B. Sc., M. Ed., COMS
Teacher for the Visually Impaired (TVI)
Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS)
My professional experience includes 18 years working with students K-12 as a TVI (Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments). I am a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) registered with ACVREP and am registered with the Vocational Rehabilitation Association of Canada.
Angela likes to learn new things and keeps up-to-date on new technology. She likes to incorporate iOS apps and Braillenote Touch+ into her lessons.