Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Kitchener, ON

Mindy Smith-Bernard
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
When I meet with you, I hear your story from a trauma-informed, attachment lens that seeks to understand the past experiences in your life that contribute to your current struggles.
Everything was okay until it wasn’t any more. You're tired of feeling so stuck, overwhelmed and ashamed all the time and you’re ready to make a change. You’ve probably tried so many times to make these changes on your own but it’s only taken you so far and it’s been nearly impossible to keep from slipping back into old behaviours. This leaves you feeling hopeless, deflated, and weak. But let me tell you something: you’re not supposed to have it all figured out on your own. Really. If you are ready to take back control of your life and you have the desire to do things different -- that’s all you need to get started.
When I meet with you, I hear your story from a trauma-informed, attachment lens that seeks to understand the past experiences in your life that contribute to your current struggles.
Everything was okay until it wasn’t any more. You're tired of feeling so stuck, overwhelmed and ashamed all the time and you’re ready to make a change. You’ve probably tried so many times to make these changes on your own but it’s only taken you so far and it’s been nearly impossible to keep from slipping back into old behaviours. This leaves you feeling hopeless, deflated, and weak. But let me tell you something: you’re not supposed to have it all figured out on your own. Really. If you are ready to take back control of your life and you have the desire to do things different -- that’s all you need to get started.

Bonnie Taylor Counselling & Consulting Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Kitchener, ON N2H
Individual Psychotherapy: Explore and develop strategies to address areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship breakdown, in a supportive and confidential environment.
Currently accepting new referrals for In-Person sessions only for individuals (13+) couples & families who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, occupational stress, school stress, life transitions, compassion fatigue, neurodiversity, disabilities/chronic pain/illness.
Individual Psychotherapy: Explore and develop strategies to address areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship breakdown, in a supportive and confidential environment.
Currently accepting new referrals for In-Person sessions only for individuals (13+) couples & families who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, occupational stress, school stress, life transitions, compassion fatigue, neurodiversity, disabilities/chronic pain/illness.

If anxiety, depression, trauma, or unhealthy relationship patterns have held you back from building the life you desire, therapy can be a transformative turning point.
As a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor, I offer services for individuals and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, and more. I aim to help clients achieve their goals, using evidence-based therapy practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EMDR.
If anxiety, depression, trauma, or unhealthy relationship patterns have held you back from building the life you desire, therapy can be a transformative turning point.
As a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor, I offer services for individuals and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, and more. I aim to help clients achieve their goals, using evidence-based therapy practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EMDR.

By using a trauma-informed, intersectional, and anti-oppressive lens, I hope to help you cultivate a greater sense of self-compassion and peace in the midst of a chaotic world.
Hi, my name is Andrea! I am passionate about supporting folks who navigate various intersections of systemic injustice; who don’t always fit into traditional molds; who have been diagnosed with ADHD or are curious about neurodiversity in themselves; and are going through transitions and a rediscovery of themselves. I want to honour your expertise by inviting you to co-create a safe space in which you can explore new paths, share your experiences and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. I love building genuine human connection that can be foundational for new opportunities, healing and growth.
By using a trauma-informed, intersectional, and anti-oppressive lens, I hope to help you cultivate a greater sense of self-compassion and peace in the midst of a chaotic world.
Hi, my name is Andrea! I am passionate about supporting folks who navigate various intersections of systemic injustice; who don’t always fit into traditional molds; who have been diagnosed with ADHD or are curious about neurodiversity in themselves; and are going through transitions and a rediscovery of themselves. I want to honour your expertise by inviting you to co-create a safe space in which you can explore new paths, share your experiences and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. I love building genuine human connection that can be foundational for new opportunities, healing and growth.

Over the last few years, I have dedicated my time to developing a trauma focused lens to better understand the unique impacts that adversity can have on our mental and physical health.
Life is beautiful, in part because of its challenges which can help us to grow and learn more about ourselves. There are times when we can feel overwhelmed and experience increased stress, anxiety, low mood or various other things that have us feeling less like ourselves. Simply put, those are all signs that you have done the best that you can with the skills and supports that you have to navigate this part of your life. My hope in this role is to support each individual to realign with their strengths and the development of the skills needed to thrive during these seasons.
Over the last few years, I have dedicated my time to developing a trauma focused lens to better understand the unique impacts that adversity can have on our mental and physical health.
Life is beautiful, in part because of its challenges which can help us to grow and learn more about ourselves. There are times when we can feel overwhelmed and experience increased stress, anxiety, low mood or various other things that have us feeling less like ourselves. Simply put, those are all signs that you have done the best that you can with the skills and supports that you have to navigate this part of your life. My hope in this role is to support each individual to realign with their strengths and the development of the skills needed to thrive during these seasons.

My areas of focus include neurodivergence, trauma, CPTSD, psychedelic integration/altered states of consciousness, anxiety, depression, parenthood/single parents, and relational dynamics.
Welcome — I’m glad you’re here.
I know how difficult it can be to commit to change and how scary it can be to face ourselves and grow. The good news is that you have taken your first step on this journey. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, experiencing mental health concerns, exploring the roots of persistent pain, navigating relationship difficulties, or seeking support for integrating powerful experiences, you deserve a space where your voice is honoured and your story is held with care. I support individuals who are seeking healing, growth, connection, and deeper self-understanding.
My areas of focus include neurodivergence, trauma, CPTSD, psychedelic integration/altered states of consciousness, anxiety, depression, parenthood/single parents, and relational dynamics.
Welcome — I’m glad you’re here.
I know how difficult it can be to commit to change and how scary it can be to face ourselves and grow. The good news is that you have taken your first step on this journey. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, experiencing mental health concerns, exploring the roots of persistent pain, navigating relationship difficulties, or seeking support for integrating powerful experiences, you deserve a space where your voice is honoured and your story is held with care. I support individuals who are seeking healing, growth, connection, and deeper self-understanding.

I specialize in supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety and self-esteem, addictions, relationship issues, and trauma.
As a Registered Psychotherapist I encompass a "work with" mindset. I approach my work using a relational, client centred, and intersubjective background. I pay close attention to all that is being revealed and offer guidance and insight where appropriate while helping to raise awareness towards things hidden or surpressed.
I specialize in supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety and self-esteem, addictions, relationship issues, and trauma.
As a Registered Psychotherapist I encompass a "work with" mindset. I approach my work using a relational, client centred, and intersubjective background. I pay close attention to all that is being revealed and offer guidance and insight where appropriate while helping to raise awareness towards things hidden or surpressed.

If you're carrying the weight of trauma, parenting stress, identity struggles, or emotional overwhelm, you’re not alone - and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
With over seven years of clinical experience in community mental health settings and private practice, I have experience working with individuals, families, and parents navigating life's complexities. Whether you're ready to dive deep or just begin, we’ll create a space where every part of you is welcome, including the tender parts you've kept tucked away.
If you're carrying the weight of trauma, parenting stress, identity struggles, or emotional overwhelm, you’re not alone - and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
With over seven years of clinical experience in community mental health settings and private practice, I have experience working with individuals, families, and parents navigating life's complexities. Whether you're ready to dive deep or just begin, we’ll create a space where every part of you is welcome, including the tender parts you've kept tucked away.

My somatic and trauma-informed training informs my evidence-based approach to supporting neurodivergence (including giftedness), as well as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, loneliness, and climate distress.
My name is Tyler, and I am welcoming new clients. I prioritise authenticity and believe in creating a warm and supportive space for you to explore your experiences, emotions, relationships, and self-concept. Supporting others to navigate life transitions (including adolescence, parenting, grief, and menopause), depression, and anxiety are areas of focus in my integrated and neurodivergence-affirming art therapy practice. I am also trained in somatic- and attachment-focused EMDR and EFT, where we might explore early attachment experiences.
My somatic and trauma-informed training informs my evidence-based approach to supporting neurodivergence (including giftedness), as well as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, loneliness, and climate distress.
My name is Tyler, and I am welcoming new clients. I prioritise authenticity and believe in creating a warm and supportive space for you to explore your experiences, emotions, relationships, and self-concept. Supporting others to navigate life transitions (including adolescence, parenting, grief, and menopause), depression, and anxiety are areas of focus in my integrated and neurodivergence-affirming art therapy practice. I am also trained in somatic- and attachment-focused EMDR and EFT, where we might explore early attachment experiences.

*Couples & Trauma Specialist* You may feel like you are having the same argument with your partner.
You may have some trauma you cannot stop thinking about. You experience flashbacks, nightmares and difficulties sleeping. You experience anxiety, fear & anger. You may have been told you suffer from PTSD. It takes courage to reach out for help and you are doing it now. There are special ways I can help you heal from these traumatic experiences.
*Couples & Trauma Specialist* You may feel like you are having the same argument with your partner.
You may have some trauma you cannot stop thinking about. You experience flashbacks, nightmares and difficulties sleeping. You experience anxiety, fear & anger. You may have been told you suffer from PTSD. It takes courage to reach out for help and you are doing it now. There are special ways I can help you heal from these traumatic experiences.

Vicki Hartman
Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you, or a loved one, are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, grief, abuse, family or marital conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues or trauma (historical or current), I will work with you to develop the tools and insights needed to foster long-term change, personal growth, and improve relationships.
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.
Whether you, or a loved one, are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, grief, abuse, family or marital conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues or trauma (historical or current), I will work with you to develop the tools and insights needed to foster long-term change, personal growth, and improve relationships.
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.

I incorporate various modalities and interventions to meet my client’s needs, including Brainspotting, Narrative, Solution-Focused, CBT, Play-Based, Mindfulness-Based, and Trauma-Focused approaches.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families dealing with issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life changes, transitions, family conflict, abuse, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and more. I work with clients across the lifespan.
I incorporate various modalities and interventions to meet my client’s needs, including Brainspotting, Narrative, Solution-Focused, CBT, Play-Based, Mindfulness-Based, and Trauma-Focused approaches.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families dealing with issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life changes, transitions, family conflict, abuse, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and more. I work with clients across the lifespan.

I specialize in treating PTSD, although a diagnosis is not necessary to access treatment.
Hi, my name is Hannah. I use she/her and they/them pronouns. I believe every client is different and deserves their own unique therapy experience. Before we begin our work together, we will create a collaborative treatment plan, informed by your goals for therapy. My approach is gentle, with a hint of compassionate confrontation. I embrace an anti-oppressive framework, with intentional attunement to the intersections of your identity (e.g. gender, race, age, sexual orientation, etc.). Knowing how difficult therapy can be, I also try to bring humour into my sessions as much as possible.
I specialize in treating PTSD, although a diagnosis is not necessary to access treatment.
Hi, my name is Hannah. I use she/her and they/them pronouns. I believe every client is different and deserves their own unique therapy experience. Before we begin our work together, we will create a collaborative treatment plan, informed by your goals for therapy. My approach is gentle, with a hint of compassionate confrontation. I embrace an anti-oppressive framework, with intentional attunement to the intersections of your identity (e.g. gender, race, age, sexual orientation, etc.). Knowing how difficult therapy can be, I also try to bring humour into my sessions as much as possible.

Trauma, much like a splinter, embeds itself into a person and affects all aspects of life.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, trained EMDR therapist, and a Registered Kinesiologist. This allows me to specialize in treating trauma along with anxiety, depression and a range of other mental health issues. I utilize specific modalities to assist each person reach their unique therapeutic goals, specifically, EMDR, Parts Work, Somatic Therapy, and CBT.
Trauma, much like a splinter, embeds itself into a person and affects all aspects of life.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, trained EMDR therapist, and a Registered Kinesiologist. This allows me to specialize in treating trauma along with anxiety, depression and a range of other mental health issues. I utilize specific modalities to assist each person reach their unique therapeutic goals, specifically, EMDR, Parts Work, Somatic Therapy, and CBT.

Whether it’s anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or the emotional burden of past experiences.
In our sessions, we embark on a journey that acknowledges the diverse aspects of your experience, recognizing that no single therapeutic approach fits all.
Whether it’s anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or the emotional burden of past experiences.
In our sessions, we embark on a journey that acknowledges the diverse aspects of your experience, recognizing that no single therapeutic approach fits all.

Amit Hochman- Breathing Again Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G
I have over 14 years of experience helping adults and teens dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Are you constantly exhausted from keeping all the balls in the air? The guilt and burnout from trying to “do it all” can be overwhelming. As modern-day women, we juggle work and family, simultaneously feeling like we’re falling short. Nurturing and caring for your family’s needs often comes at the cost of neglecting your own, which isn’t sustainable. Reconnecting to your sense of self is not only possible but essential for reclaiming your own identity and a sense of balance. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your needs and desires despite life’s complexities, helping you cultivate a more fulfilling life and relationships.
I have over 14 years of experience helping adults and teens dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Are you constantly exhausted from keeping all the balls in the air? The guilt and burnout from trying to “do it all” can be overwhelming. As modern-day women, we juggle work and family, simultaneously feeling like we’re falling short. Nurturing and caring for your family’s needs often comes at the cost of neglecting your own, which isn’t sustainable. Reconnecting to your sense of self is not only possible but essential for reclaiming your own identity and a sense of balance. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your needs and desires despite life’s complexities, helping you cultivate a more fulfilling life and relationships.

I'm sensitive to the goals of each client and I practice psychotherapy in areas including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, family or workplace stress, as well as general mental wellness.
If you are tired of having little to no control over your feelings & reactions, I will help you develop the insight & confidence needed to learn to hone your ideal responses to life’s great challenges! Psychotherapy is not only for people who are in distress but is also helpful for those who want to grow & enrich their lives. Psychotherapy goals can include experiencing some relief from a variety of mental health problems and gaining insight into your personality.
I'm sensitive to the goals of each client and I practice psychotherapy in areas including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, family or workplace stress, as well as general mental wellness.
If you are tired of having little to no control over your feelings & reactions, I will help you develop the insight & confidence needed to learn to hone your ideal responses to life’s great challenges! Psychotherapy is not only for people who are in distress but is also helpful for those who want to grow & enrich their lives. Psychotherapy goals can include experiencing some relief from a variety of mental health problems and gaining insight into your personality.

I work with individuals and couples navigating things like anxiety, trauma, burnout, relationship stress, and low self-worth.
Therapy with me is calm, curious, and real. I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, and other approaches (whatever applies to you!) to help you process what’s been holding you back. My style is down-to-earth and human—we talk, we explore, we figure things out together. No judgment, no pressure—just a space that feels safe to be yourself and start moving forward.
I work with individuals and couples navigating things like anxiety, trauma, burnout, relationship stress, and low self-worth.
Therapy with me is calm, curious, and real. I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, and other approaches (whatever applies to you!) to help you process what’s been holding you back. My style is down-to-earth and human—we talk, we explore, we figure things out together. No judgment, no pressure—just a space that feels safe to be yourself and start moving forward.

Kaleigh Russell
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of specialty include attachment & relational trauma, self worth/esteem, self sabotage, unhelpful thinking patterns, addiction & substance abuse, relationship issues, depression & anxiety
Clinically, I follow an eclectic framework informed and influenced strongly by Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I use an attachment focused, strengths-based, client-centered, recovery-oriented, and trauma-informed approach to addressing unresolved presenting problems.
My areas of specialty include attachment & relational trauma, self worth/esteem, self sabotage, unhelpful thinking patterns, addiction & substance abuse, relationship issues, depression & anxiety
Clinically, I follow an eclectic framework informed and influenced strongly by Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I use an attachment focused, strengths-based, client-centered, recovery-oriented, and trauma-informed approach to addressing unresolved presenting problems.

I offer help with many issues stating from a particular problem you need to address to unresolved trauma and life coaching.
I also offer video counselling that allows people to receive one-on-one therapeutic treatment, despite geographical isolation, or any other physical limitations that may prevent them from getting to the therapist's office. I welcome individual clients seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, psychological stress and childhood trauma.
I offer help with many issues stating from a particular problem you need to address to unresolved trauma and life coaching.
I also offer video counselling that allows people to receive one-on-one therapeutic treatment, despite geographical isolation, or any other physical limitations that may prevent them from getting to the therapist's office. I welcome individual clients seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, psychological stress and childhood trauma.
See more therapy options for Kitchener
Trauma and PTSD Counsellors
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.