Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Therapy is a great place where personal issues can be explored and considered with safety and support.
Therapy is a great place where personal issues can be explored and considered with safety and support.

Deborah Lynne Brooks
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Waitlist for new clients
I work in person, with people in need of support and guidance from a neutral person outside of their life. This can be a life transition such as a separation, or death, to living with a chronic or terminal illness. As well as neurodiversity such as learning differences, ADD/ADHD/ASD with or without a formal diagnosis. Addictions and trauma make up a large part of my practice and I favor psychotherapy combined with a self help group approach. Through individual assessment, psychoeducation and psychotherapy, I support you to achieve your goals and measurably improving the quality of your life.
I work in person, with people in need of support and guidance from a neutral person outside of their life. This can be a life transition such as a separation, or death, to living with a chronic or terminal illness. As well as neurodiversity such as learning differences, ADD/ADHD/ASD with or without a formal diagnosis. Addictions and trauma make up a large part of my practice and I favor psychotherapy combined with a self help group approach. Through individual assessment, psychoeducation and psychotherapy, I support you to achieve your goals and measurably improving the quality of your life.

We all long for a deeper sense of freedom and fulfillment—a life where we no longer feel at the mercy of reactive emotions and triggers, but instead feel grounded in presence and capacity to be consciously responsive to life. By addressing unresolved relational, attachment, and developmental trauma, we can become more present, allowing us greater capacity for mindful responsiveness to otherwise triggering situations and cultivate the healthy, fulfilling relationships we desire. Examining ways we may currently disconnect from or neglect parts of ourselves can help us nurture a healthier, more integrated relationship with ourselves.
We all long for a deeper sense of freedom and fulfillment—a life where we no longer feel at the mercy of reactive emotions and triggers, but instead feel grounded in presence and capacity to be consciously responsive to life. By addressing unresolved relational, attachment, and developmental trauma, we can become more present, allowing us greater capacity for mindful responsiveness to otherwise triggering situations and cultivate the healthy, fulfilling relationships we desire. Examining ways we may currently disconnect from or neglect parts of ourselves can help us nurture a healthier, more integrated relationship with ourselves.

Welcome! I am a Registered Psychotherapist providing support to individuals and couples. I specialize in interpersonal and relationship issues, including couples work, family and parenting dynamics, as well as family conflict and estrangement. I am also trained to provide trauma therapy, including the exploration of family of origin issues and adverse childhood events.
Welcome! I am a Registered Psychotherapist providing support to individuals and couples. I specialize in interpersonal and relationship issues, including couples work, family and parenting dynamics, as well as family conflict and estrangement. I am also trained to provide trauma therapy, including the exploration of family of origin issues and adverse childhood events.

As human beings, life exposes us to many ups and downs. A psychotherapist with a mind-body and sociological lens can be a beneficial ally to us in riding the waves of life and cultivating a clear and peaceful mind so that we can respond (vs. react) to life. It is my passion to be of service to others by creating a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere that supports a peaceful mind, happiness, and overall wellbeing. My approach is holistic, comprehensive, and therapeutic for the purposes of promoting healing, positive personal growth, and development.
As human beings, life exposes us to many ups and downs. A psychotherapist with a mind-body and sociological lens can be a beneficial ally to us in riding the waves of life and cultivating a clear and peaceful mind so that we can respond (vs. react) to life. It is my passion to be of service to others by creating a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere that supports a peaceful mind, happiness, and overall wellbeing. My approach is holistic, comprehensive, and therapeutic for the purposes of promoting healing, positive personal growth, and development.

Hello, I am Dr. Haleh Sanaie, Clinical Psychologist in Supervised Practice with Dr. Kimberly Sogge C.Psych.and Dr. Paul Grunberg C.Psych. at Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health Inc. in Centretown Ottawa. I am a member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario.
Hello, I am Dr. Haleh Sanaie, Clinical Psychologist in Supervised Practice with Dr. Kimberly Sogge C.Psych.and Dr. Paul Grunberg C.Psych. at Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health Inc. in Centretown Ottawa. I am a member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

I help people cope with caregiver issues, including those in multiple caregiving/ parenting roles; changes related to aging, illness and end-of-life concerns; life transitions; anxiety and depression; grief and loss; as well as low self-confidence and self-esteem. With over 20 years' experience in different settings, I can help you find your way forward using a compassionate, warm and informal approach in therapy to help you with life's challenges.
I help people cope with caregiver issues, including those in multiple caregiving/ parenting roles; changes related to aging, illness and end-of-life concerns; life transitions; anxiety and depression; grief and loss; as well as low self-confidence and self-esteem. With over 20 years' experience in different settings, I can help you find your way forward using a compassionate, warm and informal approach in therapy to help you with life's challenges.

"Awareness is like the sun, it transforms everything that it touches." Have you ever found yourself in what seems to be an unsolvable situation? Living a life with no meaning? Struggling with painful long-lasting emotions and behaviours that seem to not make sense? Did you ever come to the conclusion that “just disappearing” would be the only way out? So have I, and so have many people that I helped during my 10 years of clinical practice. You are not alone.
"Awareness is like the sun, it transforms everything that it touches." Have you ever found yourself in what seems to be an unsolvable situation? Living a life with no meaning? Struggling with painful long-lasting emotions and behaviours that seem to not make sense? Did you ever come to the conclusion that “just disappearing” would be the only way out? So have I, and so have many people that I helped during my 10 years of clinical practice. You are not alone.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from yourself, your relationships, or the life you want to live? Life’s challenges can leave us anxious, unmotivated, or unsure how to move forward. You may be navigating the impact of past experiences, struggling with self-criticism, or relying on coping tools that no longer serve you. Whatever brings you here, therapy can be a space to reconnect—with your values, your body, and your capacity for change.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from yourself, your relationships, or the life you want to live? Life’s challenges can leave us anxious, unmotivated, or unsure how to move forward. You may be navigating the impact of past experiences, struggling with self-criticism, or relying on coping tools that no longer serve you. Whatever brings you here, therapy can be a space to reconnect—with your values, your body, and your capacity for change.

Please note that I no longer take referrals for therapy or assessments until January 2026. I specialize in working with children and adolescents (ages 3 to 19). I provide assessments (i.e., neuropsychological and psychoeducational) in French and English and therapy in French, English, and Spanish. My expertise lies in diagnosing intellectual developmental disorders, ADHD, ASD, learning disorders (e.g., non-verbal), and giftedness. I also provide assessments for individuals with medical conditions (i.e., alcohol exposure, auditory processing disorder, epilepsy and traumatic brain injury)
Please note that I no longer take referrals for therapy or assessments until January 2026. I specialize in working with children and adolescents (ages 3 to 19). I provide assessments (i.e., neuropsychological and psychoeducational) in French and English and therapy in French, English, and Spanish. My expertise lies in diagnosing intellectual developmental disorders, ADHD, ASD, learning disorders (e.g., non-verbal), and giftedness. I also provide assessments for individuals with medical conditions (i.e., alcohol exposure, auditory processing disorder, epilepsy and traumatic brain injury)

Jennifer Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Waitlist for new clients
My objective in therapy is to foster strength and resilience in my clients so that they feel empowered to set and meet goals as part of a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental, and encouraging therapeutic alliance. I provide trauma-informed psychotherapy services to individuals who are experiencing issues relating to (but not limited to) past traumatic events, abuse, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, mood or panic disorders, and chronic illness/pain. I work with youth, adults, and seniors and have also worked a great deal with the single-mother community.
My objective in therapy is to foster strength and resilience in my clients so that they feel empowered to set and meet goals as part of a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental, and encouraging therapeutic alliance. I provide trauma-informed psychotherapy services to individuals who are experiencing issues relating to (but not limited to) past traumatic events, abuse, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, mood or panic disorders, and chronic illness/pain. I work with youth, adults, and seniors and have also worked a great deal with the single-mother community.

Over 32 years as a professor, supervisor, researcher, and psychologist, I have come to believe in the power of a caring and reliable therapeutic relationship as a starting point for change. I help people who are dealing with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, infidelity, divorce, adult repercussions of childhood trauma, life transitions, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, struggles with self-esteem, loneliness and isolation. I also partner with people who want to explore avenues to make their lives more meaningful reflective of who they truly are. Francophones bienvenues! Now working online.
Over 32 years as a professor, supervisor, researcher, and psychologist, I have come to believe in the power of a caring and reliable therapeutic relationship as a starting point for change. I help people who are dealing with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, infidelity, divorce, adult repercussions of childhood trauma, life transitions, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, struggles with self-esteem, loneliness and isolation. I also partner with people who want to explore avenues to make their lives more meaningful reflective of who they truly are. Francophones bienvenues! Now working online.

I support folks with eating disorders and body image, relational challenges, developmental trauma/family of origin issues, identity challenges/self-esteem, and ADHD. My intention is to hold a warm and welcoming space for you to present yourself authentically and unapologetically. I know therapy can be vulnerable, uncomfortable and challenging. I am here with you every step of the way without judgment, to explore the things that make you human! Together, we can navigate and walk through your healing journey.
I support folks with eating disorders and body image, relational challenges, developmental trauma/family of origin issues, identity challenges/self-esteem, and ADHD. My intention is to hold a warm and welcoming space for you to present yourself authentically and unapologetically. I know therapy can be vulnerable, uncomfortable and challenging. I am here with you every step of the way without judgment, to explore the things that make you human! Together, we can navigate and walk through your healing journey.

Whatever you are going through: depression, anxiety, difficult relationships, career changes - my big message to you is that it can get better! I've helped countless people make amazing progress in their lives and I can assure you: life gets better when you take concrete steps to work on yourself. I believe in the power of human connection to transform patters that no longer serve my clients. Therapy is a safe space for self-exploration, humour and concrete steps towards change.
Whatever you are going through: depression, anxiety, difficult relationships, career changes - my big message to you is that it can get better! I've helped countless people make amazing progress in their lives and I can assure you: life gets better when you take concrete steps to work on yourself. I believe in the power of human connection to transform patters that no longer serve my clients. Therapy is a safe space for self-exploration, humour and concrete steps towards change.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harming thoughts? You are not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your experiences and begin building a path toward healing and clarity. With a professional background in social work, community mental health, sociology/anthropology, and counselling psychology, I bring a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harming thoughts? You are not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your experiences and begin building a path toward healing and clarity. With a professional background in social work, community mental health, sociology/anthropology, and counselling psychology, I bring a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy.

Let's face it, life can be hard sometimes. And during those difficult seasons, it's just easier when someone is on the journey with us. My approach is relational and is determined by the unique needs of each one of my clients. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental space for you to process your story, heal the hurts that hinder you from moving forward in life and learn ways to thrive in your present circumstances in a healthy way. I would love to hear your story and begin this journey with you.
Let's face it, life can be hard sometimes. And during those difficult seasons, it's just easier when someone is on the journey with us. My approach is relational and is determined by the unique needs of each one of my clients. My goal is to offer a non-judgmental space for you to process your story, heal the hurts that hinder you from moving forward in life and learn ways to thrive in your present circumstances in a healthy way. I would love to hear your story and begin this journey with you.

I believe people can grow and live meaningful and healthier lives. Seeing them gain insight over the course of therapy and thrive is my passion. I aim to provide a safe and nonjudgmental setting for all my clients by respecting their values and challenges as unique. Over more than ten years in the field of mental health, I have worked with and been able to assist individuals, couples and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, challenges in career, and relationship conflicts.
I believe people can grow and live meaningful and healthier lives. Seeing them gain insight over the course of therapy and thrive is my passion. I aim to provide a safe and nonjudgmental setting for all my clients by respecting their values and challenges as unique. Over more than ten years in the field of mental health, I have worked with and been able to assist individuals, couples and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, challenges in career, and relationship conflicts.

At one time or another, the cliché that sometimes you just need a little help applies to us all. Unsure where to seek support? I would be happy to connect with you and help get you started on the path to better mental and emotional wellness. My focus is in supporting people with mental health issues within our diverse community. I offer psychotherapy services to adults and adolescents struggling with severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression to name a few), substance use disorders, emotional dysregulation, domestic abuse, and involved with the criminal justice system.
At one time or another, the cliché that sometimes you just need a little help applies to us all. Unsure where to seek support? I would be happy to connect with you and help get you started on the path to better mental and emotional wellness. My focus is in supporting people with mental health issues within our diverse community. I offer psychotherapy services to adults and adolescents struggling with severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression to name a few), substance use disorders, emotional dysregulation, domestic abuse, and involved with the criminal justice system.

Are you experiencing obstacles in your life that are preventing you from feeling fulfilled, content and at peace? Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to share your struggles? Are you looking to share these experiences with a trustworthy, accomplished and experienced therapist? I can help.
Are you experiencing obstacles in your life that are preventing you from feeling fulfilled, content and at peace? Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to share your struggles? Are you looking to share these experiences with a trustworthy, accomplished and experienced therapist? I can help.

What happened to you matters, but so does what happens next. Maybe you look "fine" on the outside but feel a lot of complicated things on the inside. You might be thriving in some ways while struggling deeply in others. You're successful and still feel completely overwhelmed. You appear to be keeping it together while quietly wondering how much longer you can manage the weight you’re carrying. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where evidence-based therapy meets soulful, trauma-informed care helping clients not just cope, but connect with meaning, safety, and self-understanding.
What happened to you matters, but so does what happens next. Maybe you look "fine" on the outside but feel a lot of complicated things on the inside. You might be thriving in some ways while struggling deeply in others. You're successful and still feel completely overwhelmed. You appear to be keeping it together while quietly wondering how much longer you can manage the weight you’re carrying. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where evidence-based therapy meets soulful, trauma-informed care helping clients not just cope, but connect with meaning, safety, and self-understanding.
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Nearby Searches for Ottawa
See More CounsellorsHow does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Ottawa, ON
2,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Counsellors in Ottawa, ON who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
83% | Self Esteem |
81% | Relationship Issues |
80% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
66% | Canada Life | Great-West Life |
65% | SunLife |
62% | Manulife |
How Counsellors in Ottawa, ON see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
15% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Ottawa?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.