Larissa Leiser

About Larissa

A thoughtful, relational approach to counselling

I have always been deeply interested in people’s stories and in what sits beneath the surface of what we show to the world. Before training as a therapist, I worked as a lawyer, supporting both corporate and individual clients through a wide range of challenges. Listening carefully, with attention and sensitivity, was a central part of that work.

Today, I offer counselling for adults facing experiences such as bereavement and loss, life transitions, anxiety, low self-esteem, and the challenges of parenting. My approach is integrative and relational, which means I draw from different ideas and ways of working depending on your needs, while placing real importance on the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship. I work with clients from a wide range of cultural and professional backgrounds, and sessions are available in English and French.

Why Counselling Matters

What continues to draw me to counselling is the belief that people are not meant to carry everything alone.

Often, when we are given the space to speak honestly and be met with care, attention, and understanding, something begins to shift. Even when life feels painful, uncertain, or stuck, there can be value in slowing down and listening more closely to what is happening beneath the surface.

For me, counselling is not about fixing people. It is about creating a space where your story can be explored safely, where patterns can be understood more clearly, and where change can begin in a way that feels thoughtful, grounded, and genuinely your own.

My approach

Integrative and relational counselling, explained simply

My training is integrative and relational. In practice, that means I do not believe there is a single fixed way to support every person.

Instead, I draw from different ideas and approaches depending on your needs, your experiences, and what feels most helpful for you.

At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship itself.

I believe that when counselling feels safe, respectful, and grounded in trust, it becomes easier to explore difficult thoughts, feelings, and patterns with honesty.

From there, change can begin in a way that feels meaningful and manageable.

Integrative

I draw from a range of ideas and therapeutic approaches, rather than relying on just one model, so that the work can be shaped around you.

Relational

I place real importance on creating a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship, because feeling heard and understood can be a powerful part of change and growth.

Training and background

My work is grounded in professional training, ongoing learning, and a commitment to offering thoughtful support that is responsive to each client’s needs.

Core Training

BA (Hons) in Integrative-Relational Counselling

Additional training

Training in Grief Counselling
Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling
Certificate in Walking Therapy
Certificate in EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Levels 1 & 2
Certificate in the Rewind Technique
Certificate in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

EMDR Level One

I also work with an international and multicultural client base, and offer sessions in English and French.

Who I work with

A young woman with dark hair, wrapped in a bun and wearing a brown beanie and orange sweater, is sitting on the floor with her back against a gray upholstered couch. She is reading or looking at a book or tablet, and her legs are crossed with her bare feet on the floor. A guitar leans against the wall in the background, and the room has a window with blinds and plain light-colored walls.

Support for a wide range of life experiences

I work with adults facing many different experiences, including bereavement and loss, life transitions, anxiety, low self-esteem, and the challenges of parenting. I also work with clients from a wide range of cultural and professional backgrounds, and I value creating a space that feels thoughtful, respectful, and open to difference.

If you feel my approach may be right for you, you are very welcome to get in touch. A first conversation can be a simple way to ask questions, find out more, and explore whether working together feels like the right fit.