About Carissa Cochrane

Counselling grounded in connection, curiosity, and understanding.

As a counsellor in Calgary, I support children, teens, adults, parents, and families through a warm, relational approach that makes space for each person’s individual needs and experiences.


I believe meaningful change begins when we feel safe enough to be understood—not judged, rushed, or expected to fit into a particular mould. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in connection, with space for curiosity, creativity, and even laughter along the way.

Carissa Cochrane, Canadian Certified Counsellor at Panthera Counselling in Calgary

What It’s Like to Work With Me

Therapy doesn’t have to feel formal or intimidating. I aim to create a space where you can show up as you are, talk about what matters, and move at a pace that feels manageable.

Warm & Relational

Connection is at the heart of how I work. I want you to feel heard, respected, and comfortable enough to be yourself—even when the things we’re talking about are hard.

Collaborative & Curious

I don’t believe therapy is about me having all the answers. We’ll get curious together about what’s happening, what you need, and what might help things feel different.

Flexible & Creative

There isn’t one “right” way to do therapy. Depending on your age, needs, and preferences, our work might include conversation, play, creativity, practical strategies, reflection—or a combination of these.

Experience & Professional Background.

What Shapes My Work:

My work with children, teens, adults, and families has taught me that meaningful change rarely comes from a one-size-fits-all approach. I bring together professional training, practical strategies, and a strong understanding of relationships, development, and the experiences that shape how we cope and connect.

My Approach Is Informed By:

  • Attachment and relationship-based approaches
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Play and creative approaches
  • Emotion regulation and coping skills
  • Parenting and family support
  • Developmentally responsive care

Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) & Counselling Therapist (CT)

Trainings & Certifications:

  • Gottman Method – Level 1 (currently completing)
  • Synergetic Play Therapy – Level 1
  • Treating Anxiety in Children & Youth with Lynn Lyons
  • Counselling Adult Survivors of Sexual Violence
  • Treating Depression Actively and Experientially with Michael Yapko
  • Theraplay and MIM – Level 1

A Little More About Me

Outside of the counselling room, I’m a real person with a family, a love of animals, and an appreciation for the everyday moments that help us feel grounded and connected.


Family is an important part of my life, and many of my own experiences have shaped the way I think about relationships, resilience, and the importance of having people in our corner.


And if you’ve spent any time exploring Panthera Counselling, you may have noticed the big-cat theme. That story is personal too—and it starts with a few very important cats who have been part of my family over the years.

Who I Support as a Counsellor in Calgary

I work with children, teens, adults, and parents who may be navigating big emotions, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, neurodivergence, parenting challenges, or simply trying to better understand themselves or someone they care about.

Children & Teens

Support that meets children and teens where they are, using developmentally appropriate, creative, and relationship-focused approaches.

Adults

A space to explore emotions, relationships, patterns, and experiences with curiosity, compassion, and without judgment.

Parents & Families

Support for understanding what may be beneath your child’s behaviour, navigating challenging moments, and strengthening connection.