Larissa Barker
Owner & School Psychologist
Before launching ESP in 2024, Larissa worked at elementary and high school districts providing direct services to students including crisis response, mental health support, special education evaluations, and individualized executive functioning intervention plans. Outside of the traditional school psychologist role, Larissa brings a wealth of knowledge to IEP teams from prior experiences serving as a 504 coordinator and case manager for out of district students with low incidence disabilities, social/emotional and behavioral needs, and adult transition programming.
As a school psychologist in independent practice, Larissa now supports multiple districts per year by providing essential school psychology services needed for districts to maintain legal standards and state compliance. Larissa is particularly skilled in developing relationships with students and staff and providing a welcoming environment for IEP meetings that are collaborative and meaningful. Larissa’s evaluations support teams in understanding why a student is struggling and helps create the roadmap for students’ growth and school success.
Outside of her role in supporting districts with evaluations, Larissa mentors early career school psychologists to further develop their skillset and gain confidence in their practice.
From district employee to school psychpreneur
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Education Specialist - School Psychology with Honors Academic Distinction, 2021
Master of Education - Psychology, 2019
Governors State University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, 2016
Education
License & Certification
Illinois PEL # 2498891
NASP NCSP # 63701