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 the completion of my studies at UBC Okanagan. For most of my life, I 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 youth, neurodivergent children, and queer communities in both clinical and nonprofit settings — and I’m committed to supporting healing and growth for all.

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Starting at Selkirk College in 2014, I developed a passion for mental health assessment and treatment. While completing two degrees 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 Registered Social Worker (#16623), allowing me to assess and treat complex mental health disorders. Shortly, I will complete my licensing requirements to provide 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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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.