Meet the Founder
Alisa Farina
Registered Clinical Counsellor · RCC · BCACC
EMDR Certified · ADHD-CCSP · 30+ years experience
What if finding peace didn’t have to feel so hard? What if you could finally talk to someone who understands and truly listens, without judgment or pretense?
My Approach
A space where the noise quiets.
My clients tell me they find this: a safe, welcoming space where the noise quiets and real clarity begins to take shape.
I’ve spent over 30 years helping people find their way, in classrooms, youth programs, communities, and now through counselling.
My approach is simple.
Genuine connection
Meaningful conversations
Real progress
Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, draw on your strengths, and build practical solutions that help you move forward confidently and calmly.
This isn’t one-size-fits-all therapy. It’s a personalized journey, tailored to you, rooted in compassion and focused on change that lasts.
Growth doesn’t happen by accident. It happens in moments of courage. Moments of honesty. Moments when you finally decide to take that first step.
And I’d be honoured to walk that path with you.
Who Alisa Works With
Support across a wide range of experiences.
Alisa works with youth and adults across a wide range of experiences, with particular depth in trauma, neurodivergence, and EMDR. Wherever you are starting from, you are welcome here.
Education & Training
Decades of training, in your corner.
Education
- MA, Counselling PsychologyYorkville University · Graduation with Distinction
- BA, Child & Youth CareDouglas College · Dean’s List
- Community Support Worker DiplomaDouglas College · Dean’s List
Certifications & Training
- ADHD-Certified Clinical Service ProviderEvergreen Certifications
- EMDRIA-Approved EMDR Basic TrainingEnvision Counselling & Consulting
- Mental Health First Aid FacilitatorMental Health Commission of Canada
- San’yas Indigenous Cultural TrainingProvincial Health Services Authority
- Collaborative Model of Dispute ResolutionBC Collaborative Roster Society
- Introduction to MediationBC Collaborative Roster Society
- Understanding Firefighter Culture & TraumaFirst Responder Health
- Understanding Emergency Worker TraumaFirst Responder Health
- Restorative Justice TrainingJustice Institute of BC
Ready to take that first step?
Book a free 20-minute consultation with Alisa. No pressure, no commitment. Just a chance to see how counselling at Growing Minds fits for you.