Larissa a Registered Social Worker in B.C., specializing in counselling therapy. Her practice is carried out in the spirit of Dignity, Respect, Social Justice, Creativity, and Curiosity. Stories are sacred. She asks lots of thought-provoking questions that seek out the storylines that bring forth fresh perspectives, greater possibilities, and liberation. Nature provides sacred space, grounding, rich metaphors where profound healing can take place. There are many paths to healing, Sessions are offered remotely, outdoors on the Unceded Traditional Territory of the K’ómoks First Nation (Comox Valley) or on the unceded territory of the Ligwiłda’xw people; the We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum, Kwiakah First Nations (Campbell River), or at her Comox office. She gives gratitude to the land and the people who have been caretakers of the land since time immemorial. Larissa is a registered provider with FNHA, CVAP, and Veterans Affairs.
In 2019 Larissa graduated from the Master’s of Social Work Program, Clinical Specialization, at the University of Calgary. She has worked as a clinical counsellor in non-profits providing trauma counselling and as a social worker with Island Health supporting folks who experience psychological distress and substance use. She received advanced training in Narrative Therapy at the Calgary Narrative Collective where she studied the art of writing therapeutic documents. Currently she is working on her Level 3 certification in Response-Based Practice, which upholds dignity and the brilliant ways people resist violence and oppression. Prior to becoming a Social Worker, Larissa supported individuals living with brain injuries and diverse abilities. She is inspired by activists, artists, mad studies, harm-reduction, feminist theory, indigenous ways of knowing, and time in the wilderness. Her dog Midnight works alongside her and brings a gentle presence. He’s a bit shy at first, but after getting to know people, he loves to give Midnight hugs (leans) to those that welcome it.
Larissa is a Certified Nature-Based Therapist, Level 1.