Therapists in West Toronto, Toronto, ON

Photo of Vera Cheng, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Vera Cheng
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6K
As a 1.5 gen Chinese Canadian, who grew up in an Asian immigrant family household, it has shaped and informed my life and practice in many ways. Therapy can be a transformative and empowering experience. I will work with you to develop a deep personal awareness and support you on the path toward healing, learning and growing. Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you is essential. We'll be a good fit if you are motivated, self-reflective and ready to tackle the daunting task of “figuring it all out.”
As a 1.5 gen Chinese Canadian, who grew up in an Asian immigrant family household, it has shaped and informed my life and practice in many ways. Therapy can be a transformative and empowering experience. I will work with you to develop a deep personal awareness and support you on the path toward healing, learning and growing. Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you is essential. We'll be a good fit if you are motivated, self-reflective and ready to tackle the daunting task of “figuring it all out.”
(647) 493-1557 View (647) 493-1557
Photo of Monique Mathew, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Monique Mathew
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy should always be a place where we find unconditional acceptance, are held in a positive light, regularly gain insights and reflection, and are free to voice our thoughts and feelings without fearing criticism or shame. I have experience supporting individuals with depression, anxiety, struggles with career and life path, relationship challenges, trauma, and issues of identity and self-worth related to race, culture, family, gender and sexuality.
I believe that therapy should always be a place where we find unconditional acceptance, are held in a positive light, regularly gain insights and reflection, and are free to voice our thoughts and feelings without fearing criticism or shame. I have experience supporting individuals with depression, anxiety, struggles with career and life path, relationship challenges, trauma, and issues of identity and self-worth related to race, culture, family, gender and sexuality.
(289) 312-0175 View (289) 312-0175
Photo of Dr. Nicola Hermanto , Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Dr. Nicola Hermanto
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
For the many people who call Canada home but have roots elsewhere, there is a sense of living in between cultures and not having a clear map to guide the way. Whether you yourself have left your homeland, or migration was a part of your family history, you might be wondering, “Who am I really?” and “Where do I truly belong?” You might have difficulty feeling “at home” within yourself - as you struggle with low self-worth and shame, or feel confused about your values. You might have difficulty feeling “at home” with others - in feeling different and alone without community, or guilty, anxious, and resentful in your relationships.
For the many people who call Canada home but have roots elsewhere, there is a sense of living in between cultures and not having a clear map to guide the way. Whether you yourself have left your homeland, or migration was a part of your family history, you might be wondering, “Who am I really?” and “Where do I truly belong?” You might have difficulty feeling “at home” within yourself - as you struggle with low self-worth and shame, or feel confused about your values. You might have difficulty feeling “at home” with others - in feeling different and alone without community, or guilty, anxious, and resentful in your relationships.
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Photo of Stephanie Wu, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Stephanie Wu
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DTATI, BFA
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6R  (Online Only)
I offer individual and group therapy to youths (16y/o+) and adults who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of colour). Many of the clients I work with are racialized queer and trans survivors who are experiencing and/or have experienced intimate partner violence, childhood abuse, sexual assault, family abuse, state and workplace violence. Other areas I can support with include impacts of racial trauma, intergenerational trauma, grief, migration, exploration of gender/sexuality, interpersonal relationships and reconnecting with self.
I offer individual and group therapy to youths (16y/o+) and adults who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of colour). Many of the clients I work with are racialized queer and trans survivors who are experiencing and/or have experienced intimate partner violence, childhood abuse, sexual assault, family abuse, state and workplace violence. Other areas I can support with include impacts of racial trauma, intergenerational trauma, grief, migration, exploration of gender/sexuality, interpersonal relationships and reconnecting with self.
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Photo of Dr. Ameeta Dudani, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Dr. Ameeta Dudani
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6K
I am a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist based in Toronto, Ontario. I work with children and youth (0-19) from diverse communities with a range of issues. I practice from an integrative, family-centered and trauma-informed framework, that is culturally sensitive and honours the strengths and wisdom of each child and family. I try to meet children/youth where they are and help them to feel empowered with the skills and tools to blossom into their fullest beings. I specialize in providing mindfulness-based therapy, with a longstanding personal meditation and yoga practice, and training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
I am a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist based in Toronto, Ontario. I work with children and youth (0-19) from diverse communities with a range of issues. I practice from an integrative, family-centered and trauma-informed framework, that is culturally sensitive and honours the strengths and wisdom of each child and family. I try to meet children/youth where they are and help them to feel empowered with the skills and tools to blossom into their fullest beings. I specialize in providing mindfulness-based therapy, with a longstanding personal meditation and yoga practice, and training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
(647) 371-0385 View (647) 371-0385
Photo of EmotionMatters Psychology, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
EmotionMatters Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
We can assist you with a wide range of concerns, including: Life transitions, Relationship issues, Family issues, Work issues, Stress management, Self-criticism, Perfectionism, Low self-esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and loss, Trauma and PTSD, Emotional regulation difficulties, Disordered eating, Cultural issues, and 2slgbtqia+ issues.
How are you really feeling? Our emotions can feel out of reach, confusing or overwhelming. At EmotionMatters Psychology, we believe emotions are part of the normal human experience. When we start to feel our emotions in a safe and supportive environment, we can begin to understand how we truly feel and open ourselves to healing, growth and change. Our skilled, compassionate and inclusive therapists get to know you as a person and your specific needs and collaborate with you to tailor your therapy to help you on your journey towards a stronger, healthier, and more confident you.
We can assist you with a wide range of concerns, including: Life transitions, Relationship issues, Family issues, Work issues, Stress management, Self-criticism, Perfectionism, Low self-esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and loss, Trauma and PTSD, Emotional regulation difficulties, Disordered eating, Cultural issues, and 2slgbtqia+ issues.
How are you really feeling? Our emotions can feel out of reach, confusing or overwhelming. At EmotionMatters Psychology, we believe emotions are part of the normal human experience. When we start to feel our emotions in a safe and supportive environment, we can begin to understand how we truly feel and open ourselves to healing, growth and change. Our skilled, compassionate and inclusive therapists get to know you as a person and your specific needs and collaborate with you to tailor your therapy to help you on your journey towards a stronger, healthier, and more confident you.
(647) 800-4743 View (647) 800-4743
Photo of Susan Shin, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Susan Shin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
How do we navigate change? As we’ve all learned in these past years, the ability to navigate change has been uncertain and very tough. But whether it’s a change in your mood, your physical health, your career, your family life and relationships, or struggling through challenges that have been out of your control, it can be a very bewildering, confusing and even scary time. As a therapist, my approach centres your safety and empowering you to uncover your inner abilities and strengths. My role is to walk beside you through the tough challenges and be a guide through – what might feel like – the wilderness of your own emotions.
How do we navigate change? As we’ve all learned in these past years, the ability to navigate change has been uncertain and very tough. But whether it’s a change in your mood, your physical health, your career, your family life and relationships, or struggling through challenges that have been out of your control, it can be a very bewildering, confusing and even scary time. As a therapist, my approach centres your safety and empowering you to uncover your inner abilities and strengths. My role is to walk beside you through the tough challenges and be a guide through – what might feel like – the wilderness of your own emotions.
(647) 372-1862 View (647) 372-1862
Photo of Sumeet Saini, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Sumeet Saini
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP, High IQ, High T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
You’re the Black Sheep of the family, who doesn’t fit in anywhere and struggles with loneliness: The Outsider. You are talented and intelligent with ambitious business and/or creative dreams; but due to procrastination fueled by self-sabotage and addictions (e.g., cannabis, pornography, video games), you continually fail to achieve goals. You negatively compare yourself to others, can't forgive yourself for mistakes, feel like a failure, and wish you had the confidence to fulfill your true potential because you are meant for more than the mediocrity that most people settle for. Welcome, it's time to awaken the warrior within!
You’re the Black Sheep of the family, who doesn’t fit in anywhere and struggles with loneliness: The Outsider. You are talented and intelligent with ambitious business and/or creative dreams; but due to procrastination fueled by self-sabotage and addictions (e.g., cannabis, pornography, video games), you continually fail to achieve goals. You negatively compare yourself to others, can't forgive yourself for mistakes, feel like a failure, and wish you had the confidence to fulfill your true potential because you are meant for more than the mediocrity that most people settle for. Welcome, it's time to awaken the warrior within!
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Photo of Degan Arthur Davis, Counsellor in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Degan Arthur Davis
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H
With 15 years of experience as the head counsellor at The Michener Institute, I offer professional support for anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and family challenges. My use of both Gestalt Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) gives me a wide range of options for support for both individual and couples. Gestalt focuses on the 'here and now,' our body experiences and childhood patterns and helps us be present in our relationships. CBT has been rigorously tested in over 1000 studies, and is a therapy that supports depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD), panic and anxiety, phobias and stress.
With 15 years of experience as the head counsellor at The Michener Institute, I offer professional support for anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and family challenges. My use of both Gestalt Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) gives me a wide range of options for support for both individual and couples. Gestalt focuses on the 'here and now,' our body experiences and childhood patterns and helps us be present in our relationships. CBT has been rigorously tested in over 1000 studies, and is a therapy that supports depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD), panic and anxiety, phobias and stress.
(844) 330-9834 View (844) 330-9834
Photo of Japneet Kaur, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Japneet Kaur
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P
Welcome! In my practice, I use an integrative approach to meet the unique needs of each client and family I work with.  This includes practicing with a relational, attachment focused, and strengths-based theoretical base, along with an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed framework with clients. I incorporate modalities such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy. These modalities can help clients gain insight into their circumstances, empower them towards/reach their goals and learn ways to effectively manage life’s challenges.
Welcome! In my practice, I use an integrative approach to meet the unique needs of each client and family I work with.  This includes practicing with a relational, attachment focused, and strengths-based theoretical base, along with an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed framework with clients. I incorporate modalities such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy. These modalities can help clients gain insight into their circumstances, empower them towards/reach their goals and learn ways to effectively manage life’s challenges.
(647) 492-8590 View (647) 492-8590
Photo of Marisa Leuzzi in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Marisa Leuzzi
MSc, MPEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P
Contact me today to learn more about the offered services and how I can best support you and your family.
Are you a caregiver looking for support for your child or teen experiencing behavioural challenges? I can understand how difficult it can be to find the right support and services. I am here to help, if you choose! I offer services for caregivers looking for support in navigating their child's’ behaviour, and have over 7 years of experience working with those that have a range of diagnoses, such as; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and learning disorders. I offer caregiver coaching and consultation, as well as direct therapy for children and teens.
Contact me today to learn more about the offered services and how I can best support you and your family.
Are you a caregiver looking for support for your child or teen experiencing behavioural challenges? I can understand how difficult it can be to find the right support and services. I am here to help, if you choose! I offer services for caregivers looking for support in navigating their child's’ behaviour, and have over 7 years of experience working with those that have a range of diagnoses, such as; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and learning disorders. I offer caregiver coaching and consultation, as well as direct therapy for children and teens.
(647) 952-6585 View (647) 952-6585
Photo of Shahnaz Ahmed, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Shahnaz Ahmed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Anger, anxiety, depression, family conflict, domestic violence, acute and chronic/complex trauma comprise some of the challenges individuals experience in their lives. If you are a person struggling with any of these issues and/or experience other mental health concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out for a brief chat to discuss whether I am the right therapist for you. I am a Registered Master of Social Worker (MSW, RSW) with over 25 years of extensive experience serving complex mental health needs for individuals, couples, and families. I offer services in English, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.
Anger, anxiety, depression, family conflict, domestic violence, acute and chronic/complex trauma comprise some of the challenges individuals experience in their lives. If you are a person struggling with any of these issues and/or experience other mental health concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out for a brief chat to discuss whether I am the right therapist for you. I am a Registered Master of Social Worker (MSW, RSW) with over 25 years of extensive experience serving complex mental health needs for individuals, couples, and families. I offer services in English, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.
(844) 402-2059 View (844) 402-2059
Photo of ThriveWell Counselling Inc., Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
ThriveWell Counselling Inc.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RPQ, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6N
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or down? Do negative beliefs, experiences or pain feel like daily events? Does hurt from the past seem to replay itself? Are you navigating rough waters with school, work or relationships? ThriveWell Counselling is here to help. We provide individual, couple and family counselling and psychotherapy related to trauma, attachment, LGBTQ identities and hoarding/clutter support. ThriveWell Counselling helps you confidently live a more peaceful life, both inside & out! ThriveWell has skilled counsellors taking new clients, as well as counsellors-in-training that offer high-quality support at reduced rates.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or down? Do negative beliefs, experiences or pain feel like daily events? Does hurt from the past seem to replay itself? Are you navigating rough waters with school, work or relationships? ThriveWell Counselling is here to help. We provide individual, couple and family counselling and psychotherapy related to trauma, attachment, LGBTQ identities and hoarding/clutter support. ThriveWell Counselling helps you confidently live a more peaceful life, both inside & out! ThriveWell has skilled counsellors taking new clients, as well as counsellors-in-training that offer high-quality support at reduced rates.
(647) 490-2682 View (647) 490-2682
Photo of Cynthia T Willemsen, Counsellor in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Cynthia T Willemsen
Counsellor, MA, Dip, Psy, CH, RP
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6S
I employ Western and Eastern modalities - CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Psychodynamic Therapy, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Energy Psychology - Yoga, Reiki, Mindfulness and Meditation.
Providing a balance of support and challenge, my approach to healing is holistic and comprehensive. I believe that each individual has all of the inner resources they need to achieve a sense of balance and equanimity. My role is merely to provide a safe, non-judgmental container in which they can reach their own integration - cognitively, emotionally and somatically. I aim to assist the individual's journey-making process through offering new ways at looking through the lens which often gets obscured by many mitigating factors. Clarity is the goal.
I employ Western and Eastern modalities - CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Psychodynamic Therapy, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Energy Psychology - Yoga, Reiki, Mindfulness and Meditation.
Providing a balance of support and challenge, my approach to healing is holistic and comprehensive. I believe that each individual has all of the inner resources they need to achieve a sense of balance and equanimity. My role is merely to provide a safe, non-judgmental container in which they can reach their own integration - cognitively, emotionally and somatically. I aim to assist the individual's journey-making process through offering new ways at looking through the lens which often gets obscured by many mitigating factors. Clarity is the goal.
(437) 292-3704 View (437) 292-3704
Photo of Guide Mental Health, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Guide Mental Health
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P
Our therapists have experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches and provide family therapy, couples therapy, and individual therapy for children, youth and adults with a range of mental health needs.
Whether you are a busy working professional, a single parent, or an individual with health or mobility limitations, making time to access mental health services can be challenging. By offering assessments and therapy directly in your home, Guide Mental Health aims to reduce some of the barriers to receiving the help you need. Our goal is to be able to join you in your environment and stand side by side with you as you navigate the challenges of your daily life. Through direct first hand observation, our therapists are able to provide in-the-moment coaching, and more targeted interventions for you and your family.
Our therapists have experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches and provide family therapy, couples therapy, and individual therapy for children, youth and adults with a range of mental health needs.
Whether you are a busy working professional, a single parent, or an individual with health or mobility limitations, making time to access mental health services can be challenging. By offering assessments and therapy directly in your home, Guide Mental Health aims to reduce some of the barriers to receiving the help you need. Our goal is to be able to join you in your environment and stand side by side with you as you navigate the challenges of your daily life. Through direct first hand observation, our therapists are able to provide in-the-moment coaching, and more targeted interventions for you and your family.
(647) 371-5857 View (647) 371-5857
Photo of Carley Rawes Centre in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Carley Rawes Centre
MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
(226) 641-6805 View (226) 641-6805
Photo of Emily Chan, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Emily Chan
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P
Currently accepting both in-person and virtual clients. Going through life can be challenging and we could all use a little help sometimes, and therapy is a great place to start! My aim is to make therapy as resourceful, relatable and enjoyable as possible. I believe that therapy is proactive, and ensure that my clients feel supported throughout and after our work together. Anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, and relationships are my primary focus as my personal and professional experience allow me to empathize with those experiencing these issues.
Currently accepting both in-person and virtual clients. Going through life can be challenging and we could all use a little help sometimes, and therapy is a great place to start! My aim is to make therapy as resourceful, relatable and enjoyable as possible. I believe that therapy is proactive, and ensure that my clients feel supported throughout and after our work together. Anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, and relationships are my primary focus as my personal and professional experience allow me to empathize with those experiencing these issues.
(647) 955-6758 View (647) 955-6758
Photo of Lydia Wang, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Lydia Wang
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, MPS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
With a sensitivity to the unique challenges and issues of moving abroad, I bring diverse tools to help you adapt to the new environment. We can address emotional and relational issues and find ways to support your efforts to build your social network. I have practiced as a registered counselor in China and a registered psychotherapist (RP) in Canada. I completed a Master of Science in Psychology in China. I completed a Master of Pastoral Studies at the University of Toronto, adding a spiritual component to work with those who wish to seek consider problems in a spiritual framework.
With a sensitivity to the unique challenges and issues of moving abroad, I bring diverse tools to help you adapt to the new environment. We can address emotional and relational issues and find ways to support your efforts to build your social network. I have practiced as a registered counselor in China and a registered psychotherapist (RP) in Canada. I completed a Master of Science in Psychology in China. I completed a Master of Pastoral Studies at the University of Toronto, adding a spiritual component to work with those who wish to seek consider problems in a spiritual framework.
(647) 931-7490 View (647) 931-7490
Photo of Jenny S. Cheng, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Jenny S. Cheng
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
As a queer/gender diverse immigrant of colour, you are tired of just coping and getting by in your relationships. You want to be true to yourself and grow healthier connections but find some conversations too difficult. You are dissatisfied with where you are and feel stuck. You are unsure if your experience will be heard and understood if you ask for help.
As a queer/gender diverse immigrant of colour, you are tired of just coping and getting by in your relationships. You want to be true to yourself and grow healthier connections but find some conversations too difficult. You are dissatisfied with where you are and feel stuck. You are unsure if your experience will be heard and understood if you ask for help.
(647) 699-6812 View (647) 699-6812
Photo of Ashley Kwan, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Ashley Kwan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DTATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
My passion is to engage with clients who are struggling with mental health issues and for which traditional talk therapy may not be the most helpful modality. As a certified professional art therapist, I seek to help my client find meaning, purpose, and ultimately their inner voice through the creative process. A client may come into art therapy seeking relief from a variety of issues but later find that they can oftentimes find wisdom from within. Art therapy can jog such a process where words sometimes fail. The goal of my practice is to cultivate and nurture this inner voice, and so help my client to develop greater confidence.
My passion is to engage with clients who are struggling with mental health issues and for which traditional talk therapy may not be the most helpful modality. As a certified professional art therapist, I seek to help my client find meaning, purpose, and ultimately their inner voice through the creative process. A client may come into art therapy seeking relief from a variety of issues but later find that they can oftentimes find wisdom from within. Art therapy can jog such a process where words sometimes fail. The goal of my practice is to cultivate and nurture this inner voice, and so help my client to develop greater confidence.
(437) 747-8853 View (437) 747-8853

See more therapy options for West Toronto, Toronto

Family Therapy Counsellors

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.