Hi, I’m Lara,

Like many of you, I've navigated multiple career paths throughout my life. For over 20 years, I was a professional photographer specializing in weddings, portraits, interiors/architecture, and travel photography. While I deeply loved capturing those precious moments and working with light and composition, I found myself longing for deeper human connection—a way to help people not just document their lives, but truly transform them.

Following photography, I worked as a patient coordinator for Alberta Health Services. In this role, I witnessed firsthand the gaps in our mental health care system. I spoke with countless patients who needed more support than what was available, especially in terms of mental health care. Many were struggling with the same feelings I had experienced—knowing something needed to change but feeling lost about how to make that change happen. It was through this work that I realized my calling: to provide the mental health support that is so desperately needed for Albertans today.

Understanding Life's Crossroads

Change is never easy, but it's often necessary for growth. Whether you're feeling stuck in a career that no longer serves you, struggling with major life transitions, or simply sensing that something needs to shift, I understand the complexity of these moments. Sometimes the path forward isn't a complete career overhaul—it might be a strategic pivot that honors who you are while opening new possibilities.

As a parent of gifted and 2e (twice-exceptional) children, I've learned invaluable lessons about navigating intense emotions, supporting unique needs, and creating space for different ways of processing the world. Balancing demanding careers while raising children who think and feel deeply taught me about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of honoring both our strengths and our struggles. These experiences shaped my understanding of how overwhelming it can feel when you're trying to support others while also managing your own complex needs.

What You Can Expect In Our Sessions

My approach integrates both my professional skills and my lived experience as someone who has walked through significant life changes. I am a parent navigating the beautiful complexity of raising exceptional children, and I'm in a long-term committed relationship. I ride a motorcycle and love the outdoors—experiences that have taught me about taking calculated risks and finding freedom within structure.

As a photographer, I had the privilege of witnessing people during their most joyful, celebratory moments. As an AHS patient coordinator, I held space for people during their most vulnerable times. Both roles taught me how to be present without judgment, knowing that everyone experiences both light and shadow in their lives. Most importantly, they prepared me to truly see and support my clients through whatever they're facing.

In our first session, we'll begin with a simple conversation about where you are right now. If you're dealing with a specific crisis or challenge, we'll focus on what's happening in the present moment. If you're exploring broader life questions or feeling generally stuck, I'll offer different approaches we can take together. We might explore your current life circumstances, how you're caring for your overall health, and identify areas that might need attention. I take a whole-body approach to mental health, and I may occasionally recommend connecting with your healthcare provider if I notice signs that could indicate underlying health conditions or medication adjustments that might support your mental wellness.

Creative Pathways to Understanding

Sometimes the most important truths don't come through words alone. As an artist, I can offer alternative ways to explore and express what you're experiencing—through photography, paint, chalk, clay, or even poetry if that resonates with you. I've discovered that creativity can unlock insights and healing that traditional talk therapy alone might not reach. It's one of the ways I've been able to merge my love of photography with my passion for helping people connect more deeply with themselves and others.

For Parents and Professionals

If you're a parent struggling to balance your own needs while supporting your children—especially if you're raising gifted or neurodivergent children—I understand the unique challenges you face. The constant advocacy, the emotional intensity, the feeling of being "always on" while trying to maintain your own identity and career can be exhausting.

For professionals feeling stuck or unfulfilled, I want you to know that your struggles don't necessarily mean you need to abandon everything you've built. Sometimes it's about finding ways to pivot within your current path, or discovering how to integrate your values and passions into your existing work. Other times, it might indeed be about having the courage to make a more significant change. Together, we can explore what's right for your unique situation.

Starting Therapy Is An Act Of Trust

As someone who has sought mental health support myself, I understand that reaching out to a therapist can feel daunting. You're not just trusting another person with your vulnerabilities—you're trusting yourself to take this step toward growth and healing.

I know that no therapist is right for everyone, which is why I offer free consultations. This gives you the opportunity to get a sense of whether I'm the right fit for what you need right now. If you're ready to explore what's possible for your life, or if you're simply curious about whether therapy might help, please reach out. You can connect through the contact form at the bottom of my page or through the BOOK NOW button below.

Your story matters. Your struggles are valid. And change—whatever form it takes—is possible.