Carmen Larson, Ph.D.

Mentor:

Affiliation: College of Education WAVES Grant

Carmen Larson, Ph.D., an award-winning school counselor and nationally recognized leader in the field, is now a postdoctoral fellow training school counselors and designing curriculum for the WAVES program in the College of Education.

Honored as the 2025 national School Counselor of the Year by the American School Counselor Association, Larson brings passion, innovation and more than two decades of experience to supporting students at the elementary-, middle- and high-school levels.

As a Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist (C-AAIS), Larson said she integrates creative interventions into her practice, including play media and canine-assisted interventions. She works alongside her beloved therapy dog, Winston, using his calming presence to foster emotional well-being in students.

Larson earned her doctorate degree in counselor education and supervision from the University of Florida in 2004. She is a trailblazer in the field with expertise in advocacy efforts at the state and local levels, ethical and legal considerations in school counseling, artistry in practice and using technology to enhance data-informed practices. As a dedicated leader in school counseling, she also served as a board member of the Florida School Counselor Association for more than a decade, including two terms as chair of the Board of Directors (2015-16 and 2022-23). In addition, she served nationally as the American School Counselor Association State Counseling Association Advisory Committee chair (2023-24).

A sought-after speaker, Larson has also presented at numerous local, regional and national conferences, delivering engaging, practical and humor-filled sessions that leave audiences both informed and inspired.

Whether tackling serious topics or sharing real-world school counseling insights, Larson said she brings warmth, relatability and a deep passion for supporting students and fellow counselors.