Photo of Desiree Brown, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Desiree Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I use a variety of therapeutic styles: DBT, CBT, internal family systems, emotion focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, brief solution focused therapy and the triphasic model of trauma therapy.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
I use a variety of therapeutic styles: DBT, CBT, internal family systems, emotion focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, brief solution focused therapy and the triphasic model of trauma therapy.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
(289) 276-8871 View (289) 276-8871
Photo of Anahita Jakibchuk, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Anahita Jakibchuk
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, RP, CCPA, ROAT, MA
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
I offer art therapy, Cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical behavioural therapy, and many other approaches based on each client's unique needs.
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
I offer art therapy, Cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical behavioural therapy, and many other approaches based on each client's unique needs.
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
(289) 271-1765 View (289) 271-1765
Photo of Your Story Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Your Story Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Hi I'm Judy, Director at Your Story Counselling (YSC). At YSC, we understand that life can be stressful, it's easy to become disconnected from ourselves and those we love. Our goal is to help you find what you need in order to create the pathways towards your own desired journey in life. When we open ourselves up to our vulnerabilities, we open ourselves up to our full potential. We believe that all of us have the strength within ourselves to overcome and forge ahead with our own preferred way of life, love, and happiness. We all can use some help and support from time to time.
Hi I'm Judy, Director at Your Story Counselling (YSC). At YSC, we understand that life can be stressful, it's easy to become disconnected from ourselves and those we love. Our goal is to help you find what you need in order to create the pathways towards your own desired journey in life. When we open ourselves up to our vulnerabilities, we open ourselves up to our full potential. We believe that all of us have the strength within ourselves to overcome and forge ahead with our own preferred way of life, love, and happiness. We all can use some help and support from time to time.
(416) 473-3333 View (416) 473-3333
Photo of Victoria Huang, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Victoria Huang
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
I always approach my clients in with an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, harm reduction framework. What does that mean? It means that I will always ask "what happened to you?" instead of asking "what's wrong with you?". It also means that I will always respect you as the expert in your own life. Finally, it means that I believe that everyone does their very best to survive and thrive each day–even on the days that we can't see any hope. I am here to be with you, even through the darkest of days, and help you find inspiration and hope within yourself.
I always approach my clients in with an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, harm reduction framework. What does that mean? It means that I will always ask "what happened to you?" instead of asking "what's wrong with you?". It also means that I will always respect you as the expert in your own life. Finally, it means that I believe that everyone does their very best to survive and thrive each day–even on the days that we can't see any hope. I am here to be with you, even through the darkest of days, and help you find inspiration and hope within yourself.
(289) 804-8384 View (289) 804-8384
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240
Photo of Jace Armstrong, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Jace Armstrong
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
If you or someone you know is grappling with various challenges, be it related to stress, mental health, or issues within your relationship, I hope this page offers you guidance and is the 'right' fit to meet your needs. Regardless of your background or struggle, I am here to provide you with a safe and empathetic space where there is understanding, respect and support in navigating your concerns.
If you or someone you know is grappling with various challenges, be it related to stress, mental health, or issues within your relationship, I hope this page offers you guidance and is the 'right' fit to meet your needs. Regardless of your background or struggle, I am here to provide you with a safe and empathetic space where there is understanding, respect and support in navigating your concerns.
(289) 903-0991 View (289) 903-0991
Photo of Julia Bruto, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Vaughan, ON
Julia Bruto
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
My goal is to support and guide you back to wellness no matter the trials and tribulations that life presents. I have a keen interest in supporting anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Above all, I take pride in building genuine therapeutic relationships with my clients while helping them become the best versions of themselves. Having started my own therapeutic journey as a client myself, I can more deeply appreciate the importance of this client-therapist relationship. The therapeutic journey is not always easy, but I believe that we are stronger together.
My goal is to support and guide you back to wellness no matter the trials and tribulations that life presents. I have a keen interest in supporting anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Above all, I take pride in building genuine therapeutic relationships with my clients while helping them become the best versions of themselves. Having started my own therapeutic journey as a client myself, I can more deeply appreciate the importance of this client-therapist relationship. The therapeutic journey is not always easy, but I believe that we are stronger together.
(289) 813-7592 View (289) 813-7592
Photo of Marlen Iskander, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Marlen Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
(289) 216-5843 View (289) 216-5843
Photo of Richie Han, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Richie Han
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I see myself as a facilitator of change and a witness to my clients' journeys of self-discovery. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and transformation, and I feel honored to accompany my clients on their path towards healing and wholeness. Taking after others who have inspired me, I encourage my clients to step into their power and courageously embrace their vulnerability as a source of strength and connection. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and curiosity. I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel heard, seen, and understood.
As a therapist, I see myself as a facilitator of change and a witness to my clients' journeys of self-discovery. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and transformation, and I feel honored to accompany my clients on their path towards healing and wholeness. Taking after others who have inspired me, I encourage my clients to step into their power and courageously embrace their vulnerability as a source of strength and connection. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and curiosity. I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel heard, seen, and understood.
(289) 803-9988 View (289) 803-9988
Photo of Erin Hatton, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Vaughan, ON
Erin Hatton
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
My heart is for those who are overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, struggling, and disconnected. Your story has made you who you are, but it doesn’t have to define your future. I believe you are the expert on your experience and my role is to help you find yourself again. During my years working with survivors of intimate partner violence, I developed a passion for supporting people through their personal journey of growth and healing. As a mother of four teens and young adults with ADHD and ASD, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families understand neurodiversity and learn to flourish.
My heart is for those who are overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, struggling, and disconnected. Your story has made you who you are, but it doesn’t have to define your future. I believe you are the expert on your experience and my role is to help you find yourself again. During my years working with survivors of intimate partner violence, I developed a passion for supporting people through their personal journey of growth and healing. As a mother of four teens and young adults with ADHD and ASD, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families understand neurodiversity and learn to flourish.
(289) 278-8545 View (289) 278-8545
Photo of Dr. Arbus & Dr. Weidenfelder and Associates, Psychologist in Vaughan, ON
Dr. Arbus & Dr. Weidenfelder and Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L6A
Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder are registered clinical psychologists with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and are memebers of the Ontario Psychological Association. Currently, both doctors work full time at our private practice location treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder have extensive experience in both hospital and community based treatment centers including Brampton Civic Hospital, McMaster Children's Hospital, and Whitby Mental Health Center. We look forward to helping you.
Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder are registered clinical psychologists with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and are memebers of the Ontario Psychological Association. Currently, both doctors work full time at our private practice location treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder have extensive experience in both hospital and community based treatment centers including Brampton Civic Hospital, McMaster Children's Hospital, and Whitby Mental Health Center. We look forward to helping you.
(647) 933-9775 View (647) 933-9775
Photo of Laura Polisuk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vaughan, ON
Laura Polisuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
As a social worker, my passion lies in helping individuals between the ages of 15-40 navigate the complex challenges of life transitions, dual diagnosis, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and body image/self-esteem issues. My approach is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the emotional challenges that are associated with mental health issues. Through a collaborative and compassionate therapeutic journey, I aim to empower my ideal clients to build resilience, develop coping skills and build self-wroth.
As a social worker, my passion lies in helping individuals between the ages of 15-40 navigate the complex challenges of life transitions, dual diagnosis, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and body image/self-esteem issues. My approach is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the emotional challenges that are associated with mental health issues. Through a collaborative and compassionate therapeutic journey, I aim to empower my ideal clients to build resilience, develop coping skills and build self-wroth.
(289) 805-6557 View (289) 805-6557
Photo of Megha Agnihotri, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Megha Agnihotri
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
Welcome! I see clients both in-person and virtually. My approach is led by a belief that feeling deeply is what makes us human and that we all can benefit from shining light on areas that need more love and compassion on our healing journey. I specialize and work with clients who experience anxiety, people pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges (romantic, family and friends), and difficulties with regulating emotions. As a child of immigrants, I also hold space in sessions to discuss the impact of intergenerational trauma and ancestral burdens.
Welcome! I see clients both in-person and virtually. My approach is led by a belief that feeling deeply is what makes us human and that we all can benefit from shining light on areas that need more love and compassion on our healing journey. I specialize and work with clients who experience anxiety, people pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges (romantic, family and friends), and difficulties with regulating emotions. As a child of immigrants, I also hold space in sessions to discuss the impact of intergenerational trauma and ancestral burdens.
(437) 800-2758 View (437) 800-2758
Photo of Erika Rukin MSW,RSW, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Erika Rukin MSW,RSW
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
As a mental health therapist, I specialize in helping adolescents, post-secondary students, and young adults. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, friendship challenges or anything related to your mental health and well-being, things can get better when you ask for help. My counselling services are designed to help you build resilience, improve your communication skills, and develop self-confidence. Through a collaborative approach, we can work together to understand the underlying causes of your challenges and develop practical solutions to overcome them.
As a mental health therapist, I specialize in helping adolescents, post-secondary students, and young adults. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, friendship challenges or anything related to your mental health and well-being, things can get better when you ask for help. My counselling services are designed to help you build resilience, improve your communication skills, and develop self-confidence. Through a collaborative approach, we can work together to understand the underlying causes of your challenges and develop practical solutions to overcome them.
(289) 210-5979 View (289) 210-5979
Photo of Cassandra Fezzuoglio, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Cassandra Fezzuoglio
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L  (Online Only)
I chose to get into this work because I understand what it’s like to struggle with overwhelming thoughts and feelings and deal with conflict that feels unmanageable. When we don’t feel comfortable to express our emotions and don’t feel safe enough to express our desires, needs, limits, &/ or boundaries, it creates stress, anxiety, anger, and depression, which can lead to issues in our friendships, relationships, families and at work. I have a deep desire to support others who also long to leave behind their overwhelming thoughts and feelings for a life that is fulfilling, instead of just "manageable".
I chose to get into this work because I understand what it’s like to struggle with overwhelming thoughts and feelings and deal with conflict that feels unmanageable. When we don’t feel comfortable to express our emotions and don’t feel safe enough to express our desires, needs, limits, &/ or boundaries, it creates stress, anxiety, anger, and depression, which can lead to issues in our friendships, relationships, families and at work. I have a deep desire to support others who also long to leave behind their overwhelming thoughts and feelings for a life that is fulfilling, instead of just "manageable".
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Photo of Dr. Ambreen Basria, Psychologist in Vaughan, ON
Dr. Ambreen Basria
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
I work with clients that are gender non conforming, exploring gender identity, fertility challenges, postpartum and perinatal mental health issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, mood related concerns, and exploring their own identity. I work with clients from a solution focus, humanistic, and person centered approach. I believe the client is the expert in their life, their challenges, and really emphasize guiding treatment through the lens of the client. I offer virtual sessions only at this time, which gives you the luxury of having therapy in the space of your own comfort.
I work with clients that are gender non conforming, exploring gender identity, fertility challenges, postpartum and perinatal mental health issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, mood related concerns, and exploring their own identity. I work with clients from a solution focus, humanistic, and person centered approach. I believe the client is the expert in their life, their challenges, and really emphasize guiding treatment through the lens of the client. I offer virtual sessions only at this time, which gives you the luxury of having therapy in the space of your own comfort.
(289) 797-3202 View (289) 797-3202
Photo of Laura Roberta Moll, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Laura Roberta Moll
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW RSW, CGT, BEC
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
I am a very enthusiastic, compassionate, and highly motivated self-directed health care professional with a physical disability committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families living with chronic illness and/or disability through clinical practice, education, and research at all phases of development, individually, and in collaboration with other stakeholders. I adhere to client-centred, and strength-oriented approaches to psychosocial assessment and counselling when working with these individuals. I am also cognizant of the impact of past and current socio-economic, bio-psychosocial, and health care policies a
I am a very enthusiastic, compassionate, and highly motivated self-directed health care professional with a physical disability committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families living with chronic illness and/or disability through clinical practice, education, and research at all phases of development, individually, and in collaboration with other stakeholders. I adhere to client-centred, and strength-oriented approaches to psychosocial assessment and counselling when working with these individuals. I am also cognizant of the impact of past and current socio-economic, bio-psychosocial, and health care policies a
(647) 957-9921 View (647) 957-9921
Photo of Robynson Paulwell, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Robynson Paulwell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Hello everyone! My name is Robynson or Robyn for short. Being a registered Social Worker, I've had years of experience supporting clients through various traumatic events. Since obtaining my Masters degree I have continued to grow my practice as a psychotherapist where I use my creativity combining therapeutic practices to cater to the specific needs of clients. I provide culturally sensitive, and a client centered approach, where clients are active agents in the journey of the therapeutic process. The goal is to help connect you to your needs and be a support as we brainstorm the steps to reaching those needs.
Hello everyone! My name is Robynson or Robyn for short. Being a registered Social Worker, I've had years of experience supporting clients through various traumatic events. Since obtaining my Masters degree I have continued to grow my practice as a psychotherapist where I use my creativity combining therapeutic practices to cater to the specific needs of clients. I provide culturally sensitive, and a client centered approach, where clients are active agents in the journey of the therapeutic process. The goal is to help connect you to your needs and be a support as we brainstorm the steps to reaching those needs.
(416) 473-3333 View (416) 473-3333
Photo of Family Matters Mediators and Counsellors, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Family Matters Mediators and Counsellors
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW, AccFM, CDC, BSW Hon, BA Soc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
My name is Jennifer Barkin. I specialize in working with families in all areas pertaining to separation and divorce. I am a registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, an Accredited Family Mediator with the Ontario Association of Family Mediators , a Parenting Coordinator , and a CDC Certified Divorce Coach. I have also trained in the Voice of the Child . My passion is helping people positively work through the changes in their families, better their relationships, learn effective co-parenting skills, co-parent when there is high conflict, and move forward happily and successfully.
My name is Jennifer Barkin. I specialize in working with families in all areas pertaining to separation and divorce. I am a registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, an Accredited Family Mediator with the Ontario Association of Family Mediators , a Parenting Coordinator , and a CDC Certified Divorce Coach. I have also trained in the Voice of the Child . My passion is helping people positively work through the changes in their families, better their relationships, learn effective co-parenting skills, co-parent when there is high conflict, and move forward happily and successfully.
(647) 370-3647 View (647) 370-3647
Photo of STAR Holistic Services , Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
STAR Holistic Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Accepting new clients!
Accepting new clients!
(289) 272-8786 View (289) 272-8786

See more therapy options for Vaughan

Motivational Interviewing Counsellors

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathises, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviours in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behaviour.