Kootenay Virtual Clinic
Est. 2025
Kootenay Virtual Clinical Services LTD. was founded in early 2025 following our CEO’s educational journey in the Okanagan. During this time, it became clear that while mental health services exist in the Kootenays, many residents still face challenges accessing affordable and locally informed care. Born from a long-standing commitment to supporting mental health in rural and underserved communities, our CEO decided to put their experience in building community-based programs to use in their home community. Thus, Kootenay Virtual Clinical Services Ltd., was born.
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We deeply value the important work already being done by clinics and professionals in our region. Our goal is to complement these efforts by focusing on affordability, accessibility, and community connection. At Kootenay Virtual Clinic, we partner with local non-profits and small businesses to expand options for residents and ensure care feels rooted in the Kootenays.
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We prioritize hiring counsellors who understand the unique aspects of rural life and the sense of belonging that comes from growing up here. Based out of Fruitvale, our team includes counsellors from Fruitvale, Nelson, and Fernie—bringing local insight and commitment to every session.
Clinicial Director/CEO
Lia Kay (King)
BSc., MSc., MSW. RSW (#16623)
Hello! I'm Lia Kay, Clinical Director/CEO of Kootenay Virtual Clinic. I'm thrilled to be back in the Kootenays with my family following 9-years of post-secondary studies at UBC Okanagan focused on mental health. For most of my life, I've lived in the Beaver Valley, graduating from J.L. Crowe, and playing sports throughout the region.
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As a Therapist, I specialize in Complex and Childhood Trauma, Anxiety/Mood disorders, Neurodivergence, and 2SLBGTQIA+ Mental Health. I’ve worked with Indigenous, neurodivergent, and queer communities in both clinical and nonprofit settings — and I’m committed to supporting healing and growth for all.
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I started Kootenay Virtual Clinic with one simple mission: to provide high-quality, affordable, and accessible mental health services to community members throughout the Kootenay Boundary.
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Starting at Selkirk College in 2014, I developed a passion for mental health assessment and treatment. While completing two degrees (BSc. & MSc.) focused on Neurobiology, Clinical Psychology, and Positive Psychology in Children & Youth at UBC Okanagan (2016 - 2021), I became recognized as a Top Indigenous Researcher in Health and Mental Health, receiving prestigious awards such as BC’s Graduate Scholarship and the Irving K. Barber Indigenous Master's Studies Award.
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In 2021, I entered the Master of Clinical Social Work program while working as a counsellor at the Okanagan Indian Band. This furthered my specialization in mental health assessment and treatment in rural communities. Since then, I have become a Master-Level Registered Social Worker (#16623), allowing me to assess and treat complex mental health disorders. Shortly, I will complete my licensing requirements to be classified as a Clinical Social Worker, allowing me to provide legal DSM-5 Diagnoses.
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Today, my passion lies in developing mental health programs and services for rural communities while continuing my clinical practice. I believe we all deserve access to high-quality, affordable mental health programs and services, regardless of where we live.
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