Staff Spotlight: Leah Weingast
Leah Weingast, LMSW, is an admissions counselor at Skyland Trail. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience & Behavior, with a minor in Anthropology, from Vassar College, a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University, and a Master of Social Work from Kennesaw State University.
How would you describe your role at Skyland?
I’m an admissions counselor, and I started as a DBT intern! I also volunteered in the art room for ceramics groups before working at Skyland. I assess potential clients to see if Skyland is the best fit for their mental health recovery needs and if so, I help determine their treatment track recommendation and level of care. I love that I get to help folks feel more comfortable in the process of preparing for admission day, and help guide them and their families through the process of entering treatment. On the day of admission, I do safety and risk assessments, mental health symptom assessments, and guide them through the logistics of entering treatment.
My favorite part of admission day is asking new clients what their protective factors are — I’ve heard everything from wanting to get a cat one day, to being there for family, to going on to college and their dream career. It is inspiring to me to see that even in moments when new clients feel at their lowest, they are still able to name what keeps them going.
What genre of music is your favorite? Who is your favorite Artist?
I love a mix of indie folk, singer-songwriter, and pop. My favorite artists are Maggie Rogers, Jose Gonzales, Still Woozy, Fleetwood Mac, Faye Webster, and Norah Jones
What do you do when you’re not at work? Favorite hobbies etc?
I love taking my cat on backpack walks in Piedmont Park, cooking and hosting dinner parties, swimming, and exploring new coffee shops and restaurants around the city.
What is one place in Atlanta you think everyone should visit? Restaurant, park, museum, etc.
I love exploring parks and restaurants! One of my favorite spots in Atlanta is the Lake Claire Land Trust — there’s a pond with turtles, nature trails, and gardens. Lately, I’ve been loving Madre Selva — which is a Peruvian restaurant — and Gingko Bakery in Duluth which has amazing Matcha.
What’s something you would tell your younger self?
One day you will get to listen to and help folks through some of their toughest moments, and it will feel like what you’re meant to do!