Ross Laird is a mental health consultant for educational institutions, museums, and social service organizations. He is an advocate for cultural practices, experiences in nature, and the therapeutic possibilities of group and social environments. Much of his work focuses on helping educators and cultural workers deepen their skills in dealing with trauma, addictions, and emotional intensity. He has worked with hundreds of organizations over more than 35 years of professional practice and has won multiple awards for his scholarship, writing, counselling, and teaching.
Learn MoreFeatured Projects
Addressing PTSD in Canada
Toward a cohesive national framework
Trauma is more common than we think, and more complex than we realize. What can we do as a nation?
Trauma Healing at the 9/11 Museum
Pathways of healing and recovery
How can museums and cultural institutions respond effectively to trauma that is shared by everyone?
First Responder Resilience
When trauma comes with the job
How can we best support first responders, health professionals, and other public safety personnel?
Culture, Objects, and Storytelling
Working with vulnerable populations
How can we use emerging practices to support and empower refugees and others who carry deep distress?
Art Connects
Mental Health and Creativity
A conversation with the Vancouver Art Gallery about health, healing, and the power of the creative process. What can museums and art galleries do to help heal the trauma that so many people are struggling with? What are the risks and opportunities in such a path? How might we start?
Wonder, stillness, and authentic presence: rare but essential experiences in our modern, distracted lifestlyes. What is the connection between wonder and wellness, and how can we find both? TEDx Brentwood.
Learning Outside
Our original heritage
Disconnection and alienation from nature are increasing problems. What might we do about this? What is the relationship between mental health and experiences in nature, and what can educators do to help? What are best practices for getting out of the classroom and onto the mountain, into the forest, out on the ocean?
Selected Testimonials
“Ross is one of the most genuinely creative individuals I have had the pleasure of knowing. I would recommend Ross to any organization that wants an exceptional and memorable experience.”
“Ross has stretched and supported me far more than anyone else has in growing into my potential, and I know he has done the same for others. He gave us the opportunity to be, and to see each other, as fully human. What more could we ask for?”
“Ross is simultaneously brilliant and humble; forceful and gentle; present and silent. He has that rare talent for igniting the minds and hearts of every learner and colleague he encounters.”
“I have never had an educator influence me more. I have learned more in my time with Ross than in the rest of my education combined. I am a better student, wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend because of my opportunity to learn from Ross.”