Your stories are powerful. The stories that you tell yourself have the biggest influence on your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

For over a decade I have accompanied my clients’ therapeutic journeys. “My clients truly are experts on themselves”. Working with ethnically diverse adults, couples, and families across Canada, the United States, and India has strengthened my belief that my clients’ self-knowledge is untapped, yet profound.

My therapeutic style is influenced by my training in clinical psychology and my South Asian roots. Blending western psychology and eastern philosophy enables me to offer a holistic approach to therapy. My understanding of language and cultural nuances in both the eastern and western worlds ensures approachability and empathy in the relationship we will build.

In therapy, I regularly integrate from some of the most effective therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioural (CBT, DBT), emotion-focused, attachment-based, and mindfulness-based therapies. Additionally, I am Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed and trained in EMDR which enables me to help individuals process and resolve traumatic experiences as well as understanding and reconcile internal conflicts by identifying and engaging with different parts of the Self.

Apart from my training in traditional psychotherapy, I am keenly interested in the therapeutic application of psychedelics. She has completed her training from Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS USA) and Integrative Psychiatric Institute (IPI) to become a Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider. My training allows me to deliver MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and integrate experiences of non-ordinary states of consciousness (which psychedelics induce) an individual may have had outside of the therapy setting.

Client Focus

• Individual Adults
• Couples

Areas of Expertise

• Anxiety, Stress, and Panic
• Depression
• Psychological Trauma and Grief
• Relationship and Couples Concerns (including consensual non-monogamy)
• Sexuality, Gender and Relationship Diversity
• Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors
• Self-esteem Issues
• Personality
• Cultural Diversity Concerns

Training

• Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider, Integrative - Psychiatric Institute, Colorado, USA.
• EMDR Trained Clinician, Niagara Stress and Trauma Clinic, Ontario
• Gottman’s Method Couples Therapy (Level 1 and Level 2)
• Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, Eastern Illinois University, USA
• Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, University of Mumbai, India
• Bachelor of Arts (Psychology Major), University of Mumbai, India

Professional Licenses

• Registered Psychologist, The College of Psychologists of Ontario – Clinical Psychology for Adults and Couples
• Registered Rehabilitation Psychologist, Rehabilitation Council of India

Professional Association Memberships

• Ontario Psychological Association
• American Psychological Association
• Bombay Psychological Association, India

Supervision and Consultation

For those seeking licensure for psychologists or psychotherapists, or people looking for additional training, I offer supervision and consultation.

Languages

• English
• Hindi
• Gujarati
• Urdu (Limited Proficiency)
• Marathi (Limited Proficiency)

Your stories are powerful. The stories that you tell yourself have the biggest influence on your ... Read More

Every person you meet knows something that you don’t. Learn from them.

Sometimes, you might find yourself feeling trapped, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how to improve your situation. I provide a space where you can feel respected and judgement-free, allowing you to openly discuss and address challenging issues. In our interactions, you can expect kindness, empathy, and understanding.

I adopt a holistic and personalized approach throughout our therapeutic journey, tailoring it to your unique experiences, needs, and therapy goals. I frequently integrate a range of therapeutic techniques and approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Approaches, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused, and Emotional Processing Therapy (EPT). My aim is to enhance the quality of life for everyone I collaborate with.

In my practice, I effectively engage with diverse populations facing various challenges. I’ve worked with individuals, couples, first responders, veterans, and those who’ve encountered physical, emotional, and/or sexual trauma. Additionally, I’ve volunteered at the Canadian Mental Health Association, offering support to community members dealing with mental health challenges.

At Therapy Villa, I provide services under the supervision of Ms. Niyati Gandhi, M.A., C.Psych.

Client Focus

• Individual Adults
• Couples

Areas of Expertise

• Anxiety, Stress, and Panic
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Depression
• Psychological Trauma and Grief
• Relationship Conflicts
• Career and Workspace
• Self-Growth and Self-Esteem
• Personality
• Cultural Exploration

Training

• Masters’ degree in Psychology – Adler Professional Graduate School, Toronto
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology, York University, Canada

Professional Association Memberships

• Ontario Psychological Association

Languages

• English
• Mandarin (Limited Proficiency)

More Than Just My Work…

I’ve been social dancing salsa and bachata for the last 20 years. It’s been a great way to connect, meet new people and make friends. I usually go to a few different venues throughout the city of Toronto.

I’m also an avid breeder of tropical fish. I find the process mentally engaging and interesting. From designing stands to hold aquariums and figuring out breeding programs for tropical fish, it enables me to do something very different from my day to day work.

Every person you meet knows something that you don’t. Learn from them. Sometimes, you might find... Read More

“We learn that it’s not the rays which bodies absorb, but those which they reject, that give them the colours they are known by; and in the same way people are specialized by their dislikes and antagonisms, whilst their goodwill is looked upon as no attribute at all.” - Thomas Hardy

​​For over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients as they navigate their personal journeys of growth and healing. Working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds has only reinforced my belief that everyone carries profound, often hidden insights about themselves just waiting to be discovered.

My therapeutic toolkit is diverse and comprehensive. I am certified in Reality Therapy®, advanced-trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Ego State Therapy, and well-versed in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Schema Therapy. This integrative approach and a systemic viewpoint enable me to help clients make empowered, value-driven choices in life’s most challenging moments. My expertise extends to relationship coaching, premarital counselling, and divorce support. I have also conducted group therapy sessions focused on enhancing emotional bonding and addressing women’s sexual health issues.

My therapeutic approach is shaped by my extensive training in psychology and enriched by Persian wisdom. As a fluent speaker of both English and Farsi, I effectively bridge cultural gaps, providing culturally sensitive care that resonates with diverse backgrounds. I integrate principles of positive psychology with the systemic perspective to support clients in their growth journey, viewing individuals as part of larger systems - families, communities, and cultures. This approach is particularly valuable when working with couples and families navigating cultural adaptation and conflict resolution.

As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I am committed to ongoing professional development. My unique background, including a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology and a Master’s in Family Therapy, allows me to bring a multidisciplinary perspective to my work, offering clients a holistic and tailored therapeutic experience. At Therapy Villa, I provide services under the supervision of Ms. Niyati Gandhi, M.A., C.Psych.

Client Focus

• Individual Adults
• Couples

Areas of Expertise

• Anger & Emotion Regulation
• Anxiety, Stress, and Panic
• Depression
• Psychological Trauma and Grief
• Relationship and Couples Concerns
• Sexuality, Gender and Relationship Diversity
• Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors
• Self- growth and Self-esteem Issues
• Personality
• Cultural Diversity Concerns

Training

• The Foundation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adler Graduate Professional School, Toronto
• Ego state Therapy Level 1, 2, 3, Milton Erickson Institute of South Africa
• Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, ICEEFT Certified Supervisor and Trainer
• Choice Theory, Reality Therapy© Certification, The William Glasser International Institute, Tehran, Iran
• Doctor of Philosophy in Counselling Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
• Master of Arts in Family Therapy, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran

Professional Licenses

• Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

Professional Association Memberships

• Ontario Association of Mental Health Practitioners (OAMHP)

Languages

• English
• Farsi

More Than Just My Work…

Outside of therapy, I love diving into things that make life feel meaningful. I’ve spent time in reading clubs, getting lost in conversations about existentialism and the philosophy of life—topics that always make me think a little deeper. I also really enjoy learning new skills; there’s something so satisfying about figuring out something new.

Cooking is one of my favorite ways to unwind, and I like to think I’m pretty good at it. I also enjoy going on long hikes to soak in the beauty of nature, though I’ll admit camping isn’t really my thing. For me, it’s all about finding little moments of joy and connection, whether it’s through a book, a great meal, or a walk with an amazing view.

“We learn that it’s not the rays which bodies absorb, but those which they reject, that give them... Read More

“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” - Carl Rogers

In therapy, I strive to create a collaborative, empathic, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe to explore and process difficult thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I place great value in ensuring you feel seen and heard and accepted for who you are.

I embrace a client-centred approach, which means recognizing you as the expert on your life and serving as a partner to empower you to heal and grow. I take an integrative approach in my work that draws from different therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. Moreover, my approach is tailored to building insight and coping skills to best address your unique goals and needs.

I am currently completing my Master of Psychology in Clinical Psychology at Adler Graduate Professional School. Prior to returning to school, I completed a PhD in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology and had an almost 20-year career as a consultant working with various organizations. The pandemic opened my eyes to how precious our mental health is, which ultimately inspired me to change careers to become a mental health therapist. In addition to my work, I have also volunteered at Fred Victor and The 519, which support causes that mean very much to me.

At Therapy Villa, I provide services under the supervision of Ms. Niyati Gandhi, M.A., C.Psych

Client Focus

• Individual Adults

Areas of Expertise

• Anxiety, Stress, and Panic
• Depression
• Relationship and Interpersonal Challenges
• Identity and Self-Esteem Issues
• Career and Workplace Challenges
• Life Transitions
• Stress Management and Emotional Regulation

Training

• Master of Psychology (MPsy, Candidate), Adler Graduate Professional School, Toronto, Canada
• Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology, The University of Akron, OH, USA

Professional Association Memberships

• Ontario Psychological Association
• Canadian Psychological Association

Languages

• English

More Than Just My Work…

My interests include most anything related to food (baking, cooking, exploring different restaurants), spending time with my friends and family, reading, volunteering, and traveling. I also love running, which I find liberating and exhilarating especially after a long day.

“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” - Carl ... Read More

“Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.” – Haruki Murakami

Reaching out for help is hard, and finding a therapist who feels right for you can feel overwhelming. As a clinician, I believe that the foundation of effective therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a respectful, empathetic, and nurturing space where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. From this place of mutual trust, we can begin to process, explore, and find meaning in your experiences with compassion and curiosity.

I believe therapy should be a collaborative process tailored to meet your unique needs and harness your innate resilience. With an integrative and client-centred approach, I draw on evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and mindfulness practices. My approach is also informed by trauma-informed care and a culturally sensitive perspective, recognizing the deep impact that our early experiences and environments have on our mental and physical well-being. Together, we can explore how past experiences may be contributing to your current emotional distress or life challenges.

Our work together is centred on empowerment, self-awareness, and emotional balance. Through our sessions, you’ll gain tools and confidence to navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience. We’ll explore past experiences, process present challenges, and work toward a future that feels more aligned with your authentic self. By the end of our journey, you’ll be equipped with lasting skills for growth, healing, and self-compassion.

I’m currently pursuing my Master of Psychology (MPsy) at Adler Graduate Professional School. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from SNDT University, Mumbai. My work at Sentier Mind and King Edward Memorial Hospital in Mumbai has provided me with extensive experience working with diverse populations. Currently, I’m completing my practicum at the Cognitive and Interpersonal Therapy Centre.

I currently provide services under the supervision of Ms. Niyati Gandhi, M.A., C.Psych. I’m also on the path to registering as a Psychological Associate with the College of Psychologists and Behavior Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO).

I am committed to providing a space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to live a life that reflects your most authentic self. I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. If you’re ready to take that first step, I invite you to reach out for a free 20-minute consultation to see if we’re the right fit for each other.

Client Focus

• Individual Adults

Areas of Expertise

• Anxiety, Stress, and Panic
• Depression
• Psychological Trauma and Grief
• Relationship and Interpersonal Challenges
• Identity and Self-Esteem Issues
• Life Transitions
• Chronic Illness and Pain Management
• Stress Management and Emotional Regulation
• Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors
• Personality
• Cultural Diversity Concerns

Training

• Master of Psychology (Cand.), Adler Graduate Professional School, Toronto, Canada
• Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, SNDT University, Mumbai, India
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Mumbai, India
• Trauma and Grief Counselling Certificate Course, Indian Council of Professional Education Mission, India
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certification, European Psychiatric Association, India
• Art Therapy Training, Fortis Healthcare Limited, India Psycho-Oncology Certification, Fortis Healthcare Limited, India
• Transactional Analysis with Gestalt Work, Mind Mandala, India

Professional Licenses

• Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

Professional Association Memberships

• Ontario Psychological Association

Languages

English Hindi

“Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.” – Haruki Murakami Reaching out for help is hard... Read More

“For small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love” – Carl Sagan

When life starts to shift or change, sometimes we can feel like there is no solid ground beneath our feet. Therapy can be an intimidating resource to approach, but it can truly allow us to learn about the strengths we already possess and how to better utilize them to better ourselves and reach our goals. I work from a base of empathy and compassion with the goal of helping people improve their own lives. I hope to help you realize your goals and build a plan to reach them.

Throughout my career, I have been deeply passionate about working with marginalized and specialized communities, such as students, adults with special needs, and the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience as an individual counsellor, working in administration with employee assistance programs, and providing crisis support through a nation-wide call line.

I take an integrative approach to working with adults, utilizing a range of therapeutic techniques and interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Approaches, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-focused methods, Person-Centred therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in my clinical practice. I seek in all situations to learn about you and tailor our plan together to best support your individual needs.

At Therapy Villa, I provide services under the supervision of Ms. Niyati Gandhi, M.A., C.Psych.

Client Focus

• Individual Adults
• Couples

Areas of Expertise

• Anxiety, Stress, and Panic
• Depression
• Psychological Trauma and Grief
• Relationship Concerns
• ADHD and Neurodivergence
• Life-Transitions
• Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors
• Self-esteem Issues
• Personality
• Sexuality, Gender and Relationship Diversity

Training

• Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Yorkville University, Canada
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Psychology, University of Guelph-Humber, Canada

Professional Licenses

• Registered Psychotherapist, The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

Languages

• English

More Than Just My Work…

I read and listen to endless podcasts on any topic imaginable. Additionally, my dog Casper and cat Missy bring me joy every day; they are my whole world.

“For small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love” – Carl Sagan When l... Read More