- Stress and anxiety
- Family of origin issues
- Coping with life changes
About Larissa
Larissa Lau is an AASW accredited social worker with ten years' experience based in Australia. She works with adults who are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and life changes. Lara also supports people facing relationship strain, grief and issues connected to the family they grew up in.
Lara uses practical, evidence-based methods in sessions. She helps people identify patterns that started in childhood and how those patterns still affect daily life. Conversations are focused on specific skills and small steps that can be tried between sessions.
Her approach includes talking through thoughts and behaviours, learning ways to calm the body when anxiety spikes, and looking at parts of the self that hold conflicting feelings. She also uses brief techniques for emotional regulation and grounding when panic or intense emotions arise.
Lara draws on a range of clinical tools such as cognitive behaviour approaches, acceptance and commitment ideas, somatic experiencing and ego state work. She explains each method plainly and helps people choose what fits their situation and goals.
People who come for help often want clearer boundaries, fewer automatic reactions, or relief from ongoing shame and guilt. Lara aims to make sessions direct and practical so people can try different strategies and notice what changes in their day-to-day life.
How evidence-based approaches translate to online sessions
Two of the main approaches Lara uses are cognitive behaviour therapy and acceptance and commitment ideas. Cognitive behaviour work looks at thoughts and behaviours and teaches practical skills to shift unhelpful patterns. ACT-style methods focus on values and taking small actions that matter, which can help with low mood, anxiety and life changes.She also draws on somatic experiencing to notice how tension and stress show up in the body. That work uses gentle body awareness and grounding techniques to reduce the intensity of panic and anxiety episodes. Each approach is described in simple terms so people can pick what feels most useful for them.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss options and agree on a plan that matches a person's goals and preferences. This is a collaborative process and choices can change as needs evolve.
Session formats are not listed in the supplied profile, so confirm current options before booking. The main practical benefit of remote sessions is fitting therapy into a busy life - they can make it easier to schedule appointments around work, caregiving or travel. Remote sessions can also allow for shorter check-ins or phone conversations when that suits someone's routine.
Areas of expertise
Additional focus areas
Experience
10+ years
Listed in
Australia
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
Which concerns does she work with?
She works with stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and life transitions. The profile also lists related concerns such as family of origin issues, attachment problems and panic.
What is her therapeutic style?
Sessions are practical and evidence-based. Lara focuses on skills, body-based calming and exploring patterns that come from early family relationships.
How much experience does she have?
She has ten years of clinical experience as an AASW accredited social worker practising in Australia.
What credential and location does she hold?
She is an AASW accredited social worker based in Australia.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English only.
Can people outside Australia work with her?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I get started?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Looking for someone else? Find them by surname.