Leila Bahri-Lucas

Relational Counselor, CI Private Mentor and Independent CI Circle Leader

Like many of us drawn to this work, I lived its lessons long before I learned its theories. For me, Compassionate Inquiry is not just a modality. It became a way of understanding my own history, my patterns of protection, and the impact early experiences have on the way we trust, connect, and feel safe in the world. Before I could support others in presence, I needed to understand the survival strategies that shaped my own development.

As a mentor, I help practitioners deepen their presence and attunement, recognize and work with subtle relational dynamics, and integrate CI into their therapeutic or coaching practice with clarity and confidence. My approach is direct and grounded, with an emphasis on emotional honesty, professional integrity, and developing your own authentic voice as a practitioner.

With a Master of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health from King’s College London, I bring an additional layer of understanding to our work together. We explore CI not only through lived experience and intuition but also through what happens in the mind and body during activation, defense, and moments of connection. This helps practitioners apply CI with more precision and understand why it is so effective.

My own client work centers on relational patterns shaped by early experience. I support individuals and couples navigating family building transitions, including infertility, blended family dynamics, long-term partnership strain, and identity shifts. Whether someone arrives with anxiety, shame, disconnection, or repeating patterns, the work often comes down to understanding what protects them and what keeps them from the closeness they want.

I live in Dubai with my husband and daughter, and I also have a blended family. What guides me in this work is a steady principle: people do better when they feel seen and understood. My intention in mentoring is to help practitioners stay grounded, curious, and connected to themselves so they can offer the same level of presence to the people they sit with.

Email: [email protected]