Attachment-based Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Erin Timmins, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP
Erin Timmins
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP
Ottawa, ON K2M
Hi I am Erin, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and have completed a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have been working in the field of mental health and social services for 6 years, mainly in the areas of child welfare, family violence, gender-based violence, and system navigation. Prior to completing my masters degree, I pursued a degree in Fine Arts. This has allowed me to incorporate expressive arts techniques within session, for clients of all ages who are interested, or curious about this approach.
Hi I am Erin, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and have completed a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have been working in the field of mental health and social services for 6 years, mainly in the areas of child welfare, family violence, gender-based violence, and system navigation. Prior to completing my masters degree, I pursued a degree in Fine Arts. This has allowed me to incorporate expressive arts techniques within session, for clients of all ages who are interested, or curious about this approach.
(343) 453-8216 View (343) 453-8216
Photo of Kelsea Gale, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kelsea Gale
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and hopeless without understanding why? Life can feel chaotic, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and feel stuck, stagnant, and disconnected. Recognizing the need for change can be challenging, and reaching out for help is the first step toward healing. As a compassionate therapist, I support individuals seeking to reconnect with themselves, navigate life's challenges, and build resilience. Whether you're just beginning your mental health journey or looking to deepen your self-understanding, I offer a safe, judgment-free space to explore your experiences, emotions, and life goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and hopeless without understanding why? Life can feel chaotic, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and feel stuck, stagnant, and disconnected. Recognizing the need for change can be challenging, and reaching out for help is the first step toward healing. As a compassionate therapist, I support individuals seeking to reconnect with themselves, navigate life's challenges, and build resilience. Whether you're just beginning your mental health journey or looking to deepen your self-understanding, I offer a safe, judgment-free space to explore your experiences, emotions, and life goals.
(343) 321-8048 View (343) 321-8048
Photo of Jessica A. Hughes, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Jessica A. Hughes
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I help adults heal from childhood trauma, emotional neglect, anxiety, and the lingering effects of relational wounds. These early experiences often shape how you relate to others, how safe you feel in your own body, and how you see yourself. It can impact everything from your relationships to your self-esteem. You may look like you’re managing, but inside, it’s a different story. Maybe you feel anxious, shut down, or disconnected from yourself and the people you care about. You're tired of just coping, and you’re ready to understand where this pain actually began.
I help adults heal from childhood trauma, emotional neglect, anxiety, and the lingering effects of relational wounds. These early experiences often shape how you relate to others, how safe you feel in your own body, and how you see yourself. It can impact everything from your relationships to your self-esteem. You may look like you’re managing, but inside, it’s a different story. Maybe you feel anxious, shut down, or disconnected from yourself and the people you care about. You're tired of just coping, and you’re ready to understand where this pain actually began.
(343) 314-5703 View (343) 314-5703
Photo of Stefanie Oppenheimer, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Stefanie Oppenheimer
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a humanistic and emotionally-focused therapist, I believe in the power of understanding our emotions and the transformation that happens when we are truly seen for who we are. I strive towards meeting you where you are, helping you gain insight about yourself, and empowering you to move towards what is important to you. This might mean learning to identify, label, and understand uncomfortable emotions to move through them. It may be about connecting to your core values and needs or examining feelings of shame, inadequacy or guilt and untangling some of the messages that so often rule our lives.
As a humanistic and emotionally-focused therapist, I believe in the power of understanding our emotions and the transformation that happens when we are truly seen for who we are. I strive towards meeting you where you are, helping you gain insight about yourself, and empowering you to move towards what is important to you. This might mean learning to identify, label, and understand uncomfortable emotions to move through them. It may be about connecting to your core values and needs or examining feelings of shame, inadequacy or guilt and untangling some of the messages that so often rule our lives.
(343) 309-9621 View (343) 309-9621
Photo of Arpit Kumar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), HBA, MACP, MPP
Arpit Kumar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), HBA, MACP, MPP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer South Asian and neurodivergent (AuDHD) therapist offering virtual sessions across Ontario. I work with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, identity, and complex relational histories. I support adults who struggle with feeling both too much and not enough — moving through life with a quiet pressure to hold it all together while longing for rest, connection, and self-understanding! My approach is not about fixing what is “wrong,” but about helping you reconnect with the parts of yourself that have been silenced, shamed, or overlooked.
I am a queer South Asian and neurodivergent (AuDHD) therapist offering virtual sessions across Ontario. I work with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, identity, and complex relational histories. I support adults who struggle with feeling both too much and not enough — moving through life with a quiet pressure to hold it all together while longing for rest, connection, and self-understanding! My approach is not about fixing what is “wrong,” but about helping you reconnect with the parts of yourself that have been silenced, shamed, or overlooked.
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Photo of Pamyna Bourgeois - Essence Of Life Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Essence Of Life Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
In order to feel loved many of us have developed patterns of abandoning our own needs in favor of pleasing others so we can feel safe in our relationships. These ways of relating and functioning may keep us comfortable but can hold us back from living a more balanced and meaningful life. My aim is to help you discover your true self, your values, needs, strengths, and build self-awareness so you can begin to set boundaries and live a life that feels authentic. I provide a warm, nurturing and non-judgmental space where you can explore the patterns that keep you stuck while building new habits that align with your future self.
In order to feel loved many of us have developed patterns of abandoning our own needs in favor of pleasing others so we can feel safe in our relationships. These ways of relating and functioning may keep us comfortable but can hold us back from living a more balanced and meaningful life. My aim is to help you discover your true self, your values, needs, strengths, and build self-awareness so you can begin to set boundaries and live a life that feels authentic. I provide a warm, nurturing and non-judgmental space where you can explore the patterns that keep you stuck while building new habits that align with your future self.
(343) 304-5523 View (343) 304-5523
Photo of Sage Ariel Seguin, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Sage Ariel Seguin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
If you often find yourself overthinking, over-giving, or putting others’ needs ahead of your own, you’re not alone.
If you often find yourself overthinking, over-giving, or putting others’ needs ahead of your own, you’re not alone.
(343) 314-6101 View (343) 314-6101
Photo of Anjali A Joseph - Anjali Joseph, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RMFT-S
Anjali Joseph
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RMFT-S
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G
Are you looking to break patterns you are noticing in your life that are keeping you stuck in cycles of pain and struggle personally and relationally? Lets explore ways of compassionately noticing, seeing, and discovering new ways of growing and unlocking potential growth, together. Ready for something new?
Are you looking to break patterns you are noticing in your life that are keeping you stuck in cycles of pain and struggle personally and relationally? Lets explore ways of compassionately noticing, seeing, and discovering new ways of growing and unlocking potential growth, together. Ready for something new?
(343) 304-6419 View (343) 304-6419
Photo of Chelsea Wallace, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Chelsea Wallace
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
If you are trying to hold it all together while struggling in silence, you are not alone. I support individuals who are carrying a lot through this season of life and are looking for a space where they can exhale. You may feel stuck in a cycle and be experiencing anxiety, burnout, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship challenges, low self-worth, or a growing sense of disconnection from yourself. Whether you know what is weighing on you or you’re just noticing that something doesn’t feel right, we will start there. Making space to make sense of what you’re experiencing, and finding a way forward.
If you are trying to hold it all together while struggling in silence, you are not alone. I support individuals who are carrying a lot through this season of life and are looking for a space where they can exhale. You may feel stuck in a cycle and be experiencing anxiety, burnout, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship challenges, low self-worth, or a growing sense of disconnection from yourself. Whether you know what is weighing on you or you’re just noticing that something doesn’t feel right, we will start there. Making space to make sense of what you’re experiencing, and finding a way forward.
(343) 429-8123 View (343) 429-8123
Photo of Monica Mohareb, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Monica Mohareb
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Online Only
Accepting new Clients - Are you seeking a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges? I am here to support you on your journey. I love working with people to help them understand themselves and their world differently. My goal is to accompany you as you create change in your life and move toward healthier relationships with yourself and others. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship or family issues, cultural issues, or any life transitions, I would be happy to work with you.
Accepting new Clients - Are you seeking a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges? I am here to support you on your journey. I love working with people to help them understand themselves and their world differently. My goal is to accompany you as you create change in your life and move toward healthier relationships with yourself and others. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship or family issues, cultural issues, or any life transitions, I would be happy to work with you.
(343) 655-2694 View (343) 655-2694
Photo of Kelly Firth, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Kelly Firth
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
I aim to honour the experience of all of my clients and believe that starts with making a genuine connection from the first session. I offer psychotherapy services to individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, life transitions, interpersonal relationship challenges, and relationship conflict. I am also an LGBTQ2S+ and ENM-affirming, and kink-friendly therapist. I am motivated to support clients to deepen their self-understanding, navigate relationship challenges, and develop more compassionate ways of relating to themselves.
I aim to honour the experience of all of my clients and believe that starts with making a genuine connection from the first session. I offer psychotherapy services to individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, life transitions, interpersonal relationship challenges, and relationship conflict. I am also an LGBTQ2S+ and ENM-affirming, and kink-friendly therapist. I am motivated to support clients to deepen their self-understanding, navigate relationship challenges, and develop more compassionate ways of relating to themselves.
(343) 312-9804 View (343) 312-9804
Photo of Brandon Morphet, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Brandon Morphet
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
Therapy is a sacred and safe space where change and acceptance are possible. Frequently, I find myself curious about the human experience and I have noticed that no one’s story is ever the same as another. In my experience, I have had the privilege of journeying with many people from various walks of life and often uncomfortable emotions are processed during our time together. It always surprises me how much untapped strength and resilience people possess and my role as their therapist is to help my clients come to this realization themselves.
Therapy is a sacred and safe space where change and acceptance are possible. Frequently, I find myself curious about the human experience and I have noticed that no one’s story is ever the same as another. In my experience, I have had the privilege of journeying with many people from various walks of life and often uncomfortable emotions are processed during our time together. It always surprises me how much untapped strength and resilience people possess and my role as their therapist is to help my clients come to this realization themselves.
(343) 429-6358 View (343) 429-6358
Photo of Jeanne Kankindi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, RP(Q)
Jeanne Kankindi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, RP(Q)
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and individuals, blending attachment-based strategies with client-centered approaches to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
Feeling stuck in painful cycles or longing for meaningful change? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a Black, first-generation immigrant in an interracial marriage, I understand the complexities of living between worlds. I’ve felt the weight of cultural expectations, the loneliness of being misunderstood, and the emotional toll of navigating relationships across differences, while carrying the burden of unresolved trauma and the pressure to be perfect in order to feel worthy or validated. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, I’m here to support you.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and individuals, blending attachment-based strategies with client-centered approaches to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
Feeling stuck in painful cycles or longing for meaningful change? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a Black, first-generation immigrant in an interracial marriage, I understand the complexities of living between worlds. I’ve felt the weight of cultural expectations, the loneliness of being misunderstood, and the emotional toll of navigating relationships across differences, while carrying the burden of unresolved trauma and the pressure to be perfect in order to feel worthy or validated. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, I’m here to support you.
(343) 501-1322 View (343) 501-1322
Photo of Catherine Dwyer, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Catherine Dwyer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
(343) 305-1119 View (343) 305-1119
Photo of Breanna Pizzuto, Registered Psychotherapist, BHSc , BAPsych, MACP
Breanna Pizzuto
Registered Psychotherapist, BHSc , BAPsych, MACP
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
I am currently taking on new clients who are interested in EMDR. Are you navigating grief, anxiety, communication struggles, or challenges with setting boundaries? Do you often feel stuck, unmotivated, or disconnected from your work, relationships, or yourself? Maybe you're hoping to process life’s complexities, better understand your emotions, build healthier habits, or simply have a space where you feel truly heard. I work with individuals who want to manage anxiety more effectively, strengthen self-acceptance, live with greater authenticity, set better boundaries, and process various forms of loss and trauma.
I am currently taking on new clients who are interested in EMDR. Are you navigating grief, anxiety, communication struggles, or challenges with setting boundaries? Do you often feel stuck, unmotivated, or disconnected from your work, relationships, or yourself? Maybe you're hoping to process life’s complexities, better understand your emotions, build healthier habits, or simply have a space where you feel truly heard. I work with individuals who want to manage anxiety more effectively, strengthen self-acceptance, live with greater authenticity, set better boundaries, and process various forms of loss and trauma.
(343) 321-0895 View (343) 321-0895
Photo of Peggy Caldwell, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Peggy Caldwell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Ottawa, ON K1H
I am a professional psychotherapist that specializes in blending mind and body therapies to help remove barriers to our sense of calm and joy. In a trusting and non-judgmental environment, the brain’s natural healing is encouraged. I worked in the non-profit mental health field for 10 years in a variety of areas including: Addictions and Family Treatment, Medical Clinics with a focus on anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia and chronic pain, and in Community Health Centres with older adults managing life transitions and grief. If you are interested reach out for a free consultation to see if we are a good fit for working together.
I am a professional psychotherapist that specializes in blending mind and body therapies to help remove barriers to our sense of calm and joy. In a trusting and non-judgmental environment, the brain’s natural healing is encouraged. I worked in the non-profit mental health field for 10 years in a variety of areas including: Addictions and Family Treatment, Medical Clinics with a focus on anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia and chronic pain, and in Community Health Centres with older adults managing life transitions and grief. If you are interested reach out for a free consultation to see if we are a good fit for working together.
(613) 902-0252 View (613) 902-0252
Photo of Siobhan Diderich, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Siobhan Diderich
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From time to time many of us find ourselves struggling with our thoughts, emotions, and inner experiences. This can be described as an “inner voice” which is often: worrying, judging, analyzing and criticizing. It’s the one that tells us we aren’t good enough or that we are going to fail. This voice can become overwhelming and can even seem to take control over our thoughts. If you’ve ever experienced this, you are not alone. Together we can explore how to navigate difficult thoughts and emotions. This will lead to a better understanding of who you are, and create greater harmony in your life.
From time to time many of us find ourselves struggling with our thoughts, emotions, and inner experiences. This can be described as an “inner voice” which is often: worrying, judging, analyzing and criticizing. It’s the one that tells us we aren’t good enough or that we are going to fail. This voice can become overwhelming and can even seem to take control over our thoughts. If you’ve ever experienced this, you are not alone. Together we can explore how to navigate difficult thoughts and emotions. This will lead to a better understanding of who you are, and create greater harmony in your life.
(343) 304-6460 View (343) 304-6460
Photo of Cassandra Tenneriello, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CCC
Cassandra Tenneriello
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CCC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
You might find yourself waking from memories that feel as intense as when they first happened, feeling stuck in the past even as you try to move forward. Your body may stay on edge, making it hard to relax or feel present, and instead of truly living, it can feel like you’re just getting through the day. You don’t have to keep carrying this on your own. I provide a safe, compassionate space where we can begin to make sense of your experiences, gently work through what’s been weighing on you, and support you in building a life that feels more grounded, connected, and aligned with who you are.
You might find yourself waking from memories that feel as intense as when they first happened, feeling stuck in the past even as you try to move forward. Your body may stay on edge, making it hard to relax or feel present, and instead of truly living, it can feel like you’re just getting through the day. You don’t have to keep carrying this on your own. I provide a safe, compassionate space where we can begin to make sense of your experiences, gently work through what’s been weighing on you, and support you in building a life that feels more grounded, connected, and aligned with who you are.
(343) 300-0235 View (343) 300-0235
Photo of MacKenzie Clarke, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
MacKenzie Clarke
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1J
From a young age, I’ve always known I wanted to build a career centered on helping others. Over the years, this calling has guided me toward opportunities that allowed me to connect with people in meaningful ways and support them through various stages of life. My path to becoming a therapist deepened during my early adulthood, when mental health became more personal through the experiences of close family and friends. Witnessing their challenges helped me see not only the weight that people often carry quietly, but also the strength and resilience that emerge through healing.
From a young age, I’ve always known I wanted to build a career centered on helping others. Over the years, this calling has guided me toward opportunities that allowed me to connect with people in meaningful ways and support them through various stages of life. My path to becoming a therapist deepened during my early adulthood, when mental health became more personal through the experiences of close family and friends. Witnessing their challenges helped me see not only the weight that people often carry quietly, but also the strength and resilience that emerge through healing.
(343) 321-7902 View (343) 321-7902
Photo of Alanna Riordan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MSc, CTRS
Alanna Riordan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MSc, CTRS
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
Navigating life can be overwhelming, exhausting, and anxiety-inducing; sometimes making it difficult to experience life's joys. In this therapeutic space, a collaborative approach is emphasized, focusing on navigating your individual experiences, your strengths, and living your authentic self.
Navigating life can be overwhelming, exhausting, and anxiety-inducing; sometimes making it difficult to experience life's joys. In this therapeutic space, a collaborative approach is emphasized, focusing on navigating your individual experiences, your strengths, and living your authentic self.
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See more therapy options for Ottawa

Attachment-based Counsellors
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.