Our Counsellors
Dr. Linda Franchi
Dr. Franchi brings an incredible breadth of experience and passion to PWP, and we are honoured to have her join our team providing care to people with Parkinson’s across the region.
After three decades serving the Deaf and hard of hearing communities in a variety of leadership and counselling capacities in Vancouver, British Columbia, Linda relocated to Victoria in 2020.
She holds a PhD from Simon Fraser University, examining accessible communication, family and community relationships and end of life care. She is a certified Death Doula and Advance Care Planner.
Samina Malik Smith
Samina Malik Smith is a Registered Professional Counsellor with the Canadian Professional Counselling Association and has worked in human services and support for over 10 years. She is passionate about helping individuals reconnect with their strengths, navigate adversity, and find meaning during life’s most challenging moments. In 2020, she returned to school to complete a two-year specialized counselling program at Rhodes Wellness College in Vancouver, graduating with honours. She is also a trained facilitator and certified life coach.
Outside of her counselling work, Samina is an active community volunteer and currently serves as the Education co-lead with Moms Against Racism (MAR). Samina finds joy in animals, yoga, nature walks, rainstorms, board games, and a good cup of tea.