Family Therapy in Kitchener, ON
Imagine if you weren’t constantly worried. You were confident in your abilities at home and work. Your past was a memory to reflect on, not a shadow in your present. You had a space where you felt safe to talk about anything that was troubling you. If any of these hopes resonate with you, our team is here to support you. Stop feeling exhausted and start feeling more balanced today. Psychotherapy can help you find yourself again, and we understand you don’t want to feel this way forever. Our therapists are highly trained in a variety of issues and approaches. Let's help you find a therapist who’s a great fit!
Imagine if you weren’t constantly worried. You were confident in your abilities at home and work. Your past was a memory to reflect on, not a shadow in your present. You had a space where you felt safe to talk about anything that was troubling you. If any of these hopes resonate with you, our team is here to support you. Stop feeling exhausted and start feeling more balanced today. Psychotherapy can help you find yourself again, and we understand you don’t want to feel this way forever. Our therapists are highly trained in a variety of issues and approaches. Let's help you find a therapist who’s a great fit!
Welcome! If you have found your way here, it is likely because the discomfort from feeling stressed, overwhelmed and disconnected has become stronger than the fear of looking at what is driving those feelings. Even though it’s scary, you are willing to take a step toward balance and connection by seeking support. I am here to help you navigate major life transitions, relationship troubles, anxiety, loss or depression so that you can walk toward stronger and more meaningful relationships with others and fully embrace all the gifts that life has to offer.
Welcome! If you have found your way here, it is likely because the discomfort from feeling stressed, overwhelmed and disconnected has become stronger than the fear of looking at what is driving those feelings. Even though it’s scary, you are willing to take a step toward balance and connection by seeking support. I am here to help you navigate major life transitions, relationship troubles, anxiety, loss or depression so that you can walk toward stronger and more meaningful relationships with others and fully embrace all the gifts that life has to offer.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life transitions, relationship challenges, or unresolved emotions? I’m here to support you with compassion, curiosity, and practical tools that help you reconnect with your inner strength.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life transitions, relationship challenges, or unresolved emotions? I’m here to support you with compassion, curiosity, and practical tools that help you reconnect with your inner strength.
I have over a decade of experience supporting families and individuals in the Waterloo Region in their personal and collective transformation.
I use a blended therapeutic perspective because I find that problems are complex and need to be approached from different angles. I am also experienced supporting people who are experiencing a variety of mental health challenges ranging from simple to complex. Neurodivergent needs also require modifying therapeutic approaches to suit your individuality.
I have over a decade of experience supporting families and individuals in the Waterloo Region in their personal and collective transformation.
I use a blended therapeutic perspective because I find that problems are complex and need to be approached from different angles. I am also experienced supporting people who are experiencing a variety of mental health challenges ranging from simple to complex. Neurodivergent needs also require modifying therapeutic approaches to suit your individuality.
Vicki Hartman
Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Psychotherapist, I'm passionate about working with children, youth and families in an empathetic, safe, and non-judgmental environment.
Taking a compassionate and collaborative approach, I always embrace your unique experiences and needs to ensure an empowering and supportive therapeutic journey. Having witnessed the transformative experience therapy can bring to children, youth and families, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where you can be your authentic self.
As a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Psychotherapist, I'm passionate about working with children, youth and families in an empathetic, safe, and non-judgmental environment.
Taking a compassionate and collaborative approach, I always embrace your unique experiences and needs to ensure an empowering and supportive therapeutic journey. Having witnessed the transformative experience therapy can bring to children, youth and families, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where you can be your authentic self.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming especially if you’ve spent much of your life feeling misunderstood, carrying expectations from family, culture, faith, or community, or learning to put others’ needs before your own.
I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Ontario with a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP) designation. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and culturally responsive care, with a specialized focus on supporting individuals from the Muslim, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomers, professionals, students and women communities. In addition to therapy, I offer career counselling and workplace mental health support, including assistance with career transitions, burnout, workplace stress, confidence, and identity-related challenges.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming especially if you’ve spent much of your life feeling misunderstood, carrying expectations from family, culture, faith, or community, or learning to put others’ needs before your own.
I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Ontario with a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP) designation. My practice is rooted in trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and culturally responsive care, with a specialized focus on supporting individuals from the Muslim, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomers, professionals, students and women communities. In addition to therapy, I offer career counselling and workplace mental health support, including assistance with career transitions, burnout, workplace stress, confidence, and identity-related challenges.
Many people who seek my services come with issues of: depression and anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, issues with partners, family members and friends, codependency and boundaries, anger management, men's issues, trauma, suicidal thoughts, court mandated counselling and other issues which can make life difficult to manage.
My main role as your counsellor is to support you through difficult times and challenges, while helping you achieve optimal psychological and emotional health. I am experienced in working with people of varied cultures, orientations and spiritual and/or religious backgrounds. Certified by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, I provide services using a client-centred, integrative approach, weaving together various methods to suit your unique needs. I enjoy working collaboratively with you in a non-judgmental way, embracing your strengths, unique characteristics, values, and insights.
Many people who seek my services come with issues of: depression and anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, issues with partners, family members and friends, codependency and boundaries, anger management, men's issues, trauma, suicidal thoughts, court mandated counselling and other issues which can make life difficult to manage.
My main role as your counsellor is to support you through difficult times and challenges, while helping you achieve optimal psychological and emotional health. I am experienced in working with people of varied cultures, orientations and spiritual and/or religious backgrounds. Certified by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, I provide services using a client-centred, integrative approach, weaving together various methods to suit your unique needs. I enjoy working collaboratively with you in a non-judgmental way, embracing your strengths, unique characteristics, values, and insights.
Hey there! I’m Emily (she/her; I’m a Newfie at heart).
Opening up about personal struggles isn’t easy, which is why I prioritize you having a space where you feel comfortable being yourself — with no judgment, just understanding. Whether you’re dealing with addiction, an eating disorder, anxiety, or navigating life’s challenges, I want therapy to be somewhere you feel safe and supported.
It can be intimidating to start therapy, so I work hard to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where you can open up at your own pace. I believe we all deserve to be heard and that it’s my job to help you take charge of your healing journey.
Hey there! I’m Emily (she/her; I’m a Newfie at heart).
Opening up about personal struggles isn’t easy, which is why I prioritize you having a space where you feel comfortable being yourself — with no judgment, just understanding. Whether you’re dealing with addiction, an eating disorder, anxiety, or navigating life’s challenges, I want therapy to be somewhere you feel safe and supported.
It can be intimidating to start therapy, so I work hard to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where you can open up at your own pace. I believe we all deserve to be heard and that it’s my job to help you take charge of your healing journey.
I integrate NARM, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support healing from relational trauma, chronic stress, perfectionism, negative self-perception, and harsh self-judgment.
I work with adults with long-standing relational patterns that cause shame, low self esteem, and feelings of disconnection. Many of my clients feel stuck in negative self perception, seeking external validation, or repeating painful relationship dynamics, even though they are outwardly high-functioning and self-aware. I support clients in building emotional capacity and developing greater self-confidence, self-authority and self-trust. Throughout our work, you will gradually build the capacity to be with yourself rather than avoiding, distracting, or relying on others’ approval to feel okay.
I integrate NARM, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support healing from relational trauma, chronic stress, perfectionism, negative self-perception, and harsh self-judgment.
I work with adults with long-standing relational patterns that cause shame, low self esteem, and feelings of disconnection. Many of my clients feel stuck in negative self perception, seeking external validation, or repeating painful relationship dynamics, even though they are outwardly high-functioning and self-aware. I support clients in building emotional capacity and developing greater self-confidence, self-authority and self-trust. Throughout our work, you will gradually build the capacity to be with yourself rather than avoiding, distracting, or relying on others’ approval to feel okay.
Services are Family Therapy based and build on your strengths.
Specialties: Couple Counselling ; Parenting ; Family Therapy (with individuals, couples or multiple family members) ; Emotion/Anger Management ; Trauma ; Abuse ; Anxiety ; Stress ; Depression ; Behavioural issues ; Conflict resolution ; Sexuality ; Adolescent/Youth issues ; addiction ; and mental health services
Services are Family Therapy based and build on your strengths.
Specialties: Couple Counselling ; Parenting ; Family Therapy (with individuals, couples or multiple family members) ; Emotion/Anger Management ; Trauma ; Abuse ; Anxiety ; Stress ; Depression ; Behavioural issues ; Conflict resolution ; Sexuality ; Adolescent/Youth issues ; addiction ; and mental health services
If you’ve spent years putting others first— family, work, or expectations—it can start to feel like you’ve lost touch with yourself.
My approach is collaborative, practical, and human. Sessions feel like real conversations, not clinical checklists. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, build self-confidence, and develop tools to manage emotions, set boundaries, and make choices that align with who you truly are.
If you’ve spent years putting others first— family, work, or expectations—it can start to feel like you’ve lost touch with yourself.
My approach is collaborative, practical, and human. Sessions feel like real conversations, not clinical checklists. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, build self-confidence, and develop tools to manage emotions, set boundaries, and make choices that align with who you truly are.
Accepting NEW patients for low-cost therapy individual and couples therapy in English and Mandarin. Whether you’re navigating stress, relationship challenges, health concerns, or questions of identity and belonging. My sessions are tailored to your unique needs and goals, helping you uncover patterns, build coping strategies, and move toward meaningful change. As an ethnic minority female therapist, I bring both personal and professional awareness to the ways culture, identity, and lived experiences shape who we are. I value and respect diversity, and I aim to meet you with cultural sensitivity and openness.
Accepting NEW patients for low-cost therapy individual and couples therapy in English and Mandarin. Whether you’re navigating stress, relationship challenges, health concerns, or questions of identity and belonging. My sessions are tailored to your unique needs and goals, helping you uncover patterns, build coping strategies, and move toward meaningful change. As an ethnic minority female therapist, I bring both personal and professional awareness to the ways culture, identity, and lived experiences shape who we are. I value and respect diversity, and I aim to meet you with cultural sensitivity and openness.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, unsure of yourself, or stuck in patterns that no longer make sense, you're not alone. I'm Garrett LaFosse, a Registered Psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, offering virtual therapy across Ontario. I work with adults and couples navigating relationship strain, emotional distress, trauma, grief, or questions about identity and self-understanding (including those in the LGBTQIA+ community). I offer a calm, steady place to sort through what's happening with someone who listens closely and helps you make sense of experiences that may have felt confusing or painful for a long time.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, unsure of yourself, or stuck in patterns that no longer make sense, you're not alone. I'm Garrett LaFosse, a Registered Psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, offering virtual therapy across Ontario. I work with adults and couples navigating relationship strain, emotional distress, trauma, grief, or questions about identity and self-understanding (including those in the LGBTQIA+ community). I offer a calm, steady place to sort through what's happening with someone who listens closely and helps you make sense of experiences that may have felt confusing or painful for a long time.
With a professional background working with diverse client populations, including first responders, individuals with complex trauma, families, couples, and those recovering from motor vehicle accident injuries, I tailor my therapeutic approach to your needs.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and consumed by your emotions, feeling disconnected from both yourself and others? Are you struggling to stay present and find control amidst a wave of unsettling emotions, making it challenging to navigate through daily situations and maintain healthy relationships? The persistent worry can gradually affect your sense of control, ultimately impeding your ability to lead a joyful and purposeful life.
With a professional background working with diverse client populations, including first responders, individuals with complex trauma, families, couples, and those recovering from motor vehicle accident injuries, I tailor my therapeutic approach to your needs.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and consumed by your emotions, feeling disconnected from both yourself and others? Are you struggling to stay present and find control amidst a wave of unsettling emotions, making it challenging to navigate through daily situations and maintain healthy relationships? The persistent worry can gradually affect your sense of control, ultimately impeding your ability to lead a joyful and purposeful life.
For the past 10 years, the most meaningful work I have done has been with adolescents and their families.
I believe people are innately resilient, able to withstand adversity, bounce back from life challenges, and flourish. Being resilient does not mean you will never feel stressed, emotionally overwhelmed or suffer. Being resilient means having the courage to climb the mountain, embracing the journey of vulnerability and having the strength to heal. On the other side of this experience is self-awareness, meaningful connections with others, purpose and improved emotional and physical health.
For the past 10 years, the most meaningful work I have done has been with adolescents and their families.
I believe people are innately resilient, able to withstand adversity, bounce back from life challenges, and flourish. Being resilient does not mean you will never feel stressed, emotionally overwhelmed or suffer. Being resilient means having the courage to climb the mountain, embracing the journey of vulnerability and having the strength to heal. On the other side of this experience is self-awareness, meaningful connections with others, purpose and improved emotional and physical health.
As a family therapist, I am also a CACFT-Approved Supervisor in Couples and Family Therapy.
Stuck? Frustrated? Confused? Feeling hopeless? Or just wanting some encouragement to find an answer that feels just out of reach? Whether it is a relationship problem, a parenting challenge, a bad habit, a negative cycle, or traumatic memories that keeps defeating you, I hope to provide you with a safe place to explore the roots of what is keeping you stuck, and help you find new options and hope through changing how you relate to yourself and others. I believe that emotional freedom, trust, and true intimacy in relationships comes from having good boundaries within ourselves and with others.
As a family therapist, I am also a CACFT-Approved Supervisor in Couples and Family Therapy.
Stuck? Frustrated? Confused? Feeling hopeless? Or just wanting some encouragement to find an answer that feels just out of reach? Whether it is a relationship problem, a parenting challenge, a bad habit, a negative cycle, or traumatic memories that keeps defeating you, I hope to provide you with a safe place to explore the roots of what is keeping you stuck, and help you find new options and hope through changing how you relate to yourself and others. I believe that emotional freedom, trust, and true intimacy in relationships comes from having good boundaries within ourselves and with others.
Open for new clients! A sanctuary is a space of safety & healing where truth can be spoken and held with care, together we will build that same sense of safety within you. I support adults carrying the echoes of childhood wounds, sexual harm, emotional neglect, & the patterns that make closeness hard. Our work is steady, real, and grounded in compassion. If you’ve spent years feeling too much, not enough, or unsure how to be close without losing yourself, therapy can a grounded place to slow down and understand your inner world. My 15 years in advocacy & inclusion shape how I hold space—rooted in dignity, care & lived experience
Open for new clients! A sanctuary is a space of safety & healing where truth can be spoken and held with care, together we will build that same sense of safety within you. I support adults carrying the echoes of childhood wounds, sexual harm, emotional neglect, & the patterns that make closeness hard. Our work is steady, real, and grounded in compassion. If you’ve spent years feeling too much, not enough, or unsure how to be close without losing yourself, therapy can a grounded place to slow down and understand your inner world. My 15 years in advocacy & inclusion shape how I hold space—rooted in dignity, care & lived experience
Welcome! Life can be overwhelming at times, but you don't have to face things alone. Seeking out therapy is a brave first step on your healing journey. Whether you're facing anxiety, stressful life transitions, self-doubt, relationship challenges or you're just feeling stuck, I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where we can explore what you are going through- at your own pace. Therapy should be a space where both of us bring together our knowledge and individual skills to create an individualized treatment plan that works best for you.
Welcome! Life can be overwhelming at times, but you don't have to face things alone. Seeking out therapy is a brave first step on your healing journey. Whether you're facing anxiety, stressful life transitions, self-doubt, relationship challenges or you're just feeling stuck, I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where we can explore what you are going through- at your own pace. Therapy should be a space where both of us bring together our knowledge and individual skills to create an individualized treatment plan that works best for you.
Albert Yang, MS, MFT, specializes in helping children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families transform challenges into strengths.
Whether your child needs support navigating school stress through creative play, you’re a teen grappling with identity, a young adult overwhelmed by transitions, or a couple seeking deeper connection, Albert provides a safe, dynamic space to heal and grow—blending therapeutic expertise with an understanding of gaming culture and modern stressors.
Albert Yang, MS, MFT, specializes in helping children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families transform challenges into strengths.
Whether your child needs support navigating school stress through creative play, you’re a teen grappling with identity, a young adult overwhelmed by transitions, or a couple seeking deeper connection, Albert provides a safe, dynamic space to heal and grow—blending therapeutic expertise with an understanding of gaming culture and modern stressors.
Emily Taylor with Thriving Families Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2E
I am passionate in my work with adults, adolescents, athletes, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating self-harm, perfectionism, and more.
After 10+ in mental health I believe in a blended approach to supporting clients, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, along with experience in integrative play-based therapy for children/ families. Sessions integrate psychoeducation, strategy building and a psychoanalytic approach to interpret ones present via their past.
I am passionate in my work with adults, adolescents, athletes, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating self-harm, perfectionism, and more.
After 10+ in mental health I believe in a blended approach to supporting clients, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, along with experience in integrative play-based therapy for children/ families. Sessions integrate psychoeducation, strategy building and a psychoanalytic approach to interpret ones present via their past.
See more therapy options for Kitchener
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.