Therapists for Seniors in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Trish Stephens, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MA, RP
Trish Stephens
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MA, RP
Ottawa, ON K1S
Trish specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and career/work challenges. Her approach to therapy is collaborative one. Together, you will establish a strengths-based foundation and build towards awareness, growth, empowerment and change. Trish is committed to listening, understanding, and supporting her clients through all of their experiences. Her therapeutic process is gentle yet practical, and always down-to-earth.
Trish specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and career/work challenges. Her approach to therapy is collaborative one. Together, you will establish a strengths-based foundation and build towards awareness, growth, empowerment and change. Trish is committed to listening, understanding, and supporting her clients through all of their experiences. Her therapeutic process is gentle yet practical, and always down-to-earth.
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Photo of Peggy Caldwell, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Peggy Caldwell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Ottawa, ON K1H
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.
My approach is to employ therapies based on current research in neuro-biology and psychology to enable clients to move towards their goals. I use a Trauma-Informed approach that combines Cognitive & Dialectical Behaviour, Brainspotting Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Approaches and Polyvagal Theory.
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.
My approach is to employ therapies based on current research in neuro-biology and psychology to enable clients to move towards their goals. I use a Trauma-Informed approach that combines Cognitive & Dialectical Behaviour, Brainspotting Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Approaches and Polyvagal Theory.
(613) 902-0252 View (613) 902-0252
Photo of Leo Lobbestael, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC, RP
Leo Lobbestael
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC, RP
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
As a somatic psychotherapist, I help individuals who feel disconnected from themselves and overwhelmed by stress or past trauma. My clients often seek a deeper connection between their body, heart and mind, desiring healing that goes beyond talking about it. Using Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, mindfulness, and breathwork-assisted psychotherapy for those interested in non-ordinary states of consciousness without psychedelic interventions. I guide clients into building self- awareness, gently releasing tension, processing emotions, and regaining a sense of safety , coherence and balance in their lives.
As a somatic psychotherapist, I help individuals who feel disconnected from themselves and overwhelmed by stress or past trauma. My clients often seek a deeper connection between their body, heart and mind, desiring healing that goes beyond talking about it. Using Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, mindfulness, and breathwork-assisted psychotherapy for those interested in non-ordinary states of consciousness without psychedelic interventions. I guide clients into building self- awareness, gently releasing tension, processing emotions, and regaining a sense of safety , coherence and balance in their lives.
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Photo of Melanie Laura Bakker, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Melanie Laura Bakker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like you and your partner have the same argument over and over without any resolution? You are not alone. Most of the couples that come to see me talk about being stuck in this way. My job is to help you connect with your partner in meaningful way so that the two of you start to have different conversations than the ones you do at home. I also offer sex therapy. Whether you are an individual or couple, part of a monogamous or open relationship I offer a safe, non- judgemental, confidential space for you to share your experience.
Do you feel like you and your partner have the same argument over and over without any resolution? You are not alone. Most of the couples that come to see me talk about being stuck in this way. My job is to help you connect with your partner in meaningful way so that the two of you start to have different conversations than the ones you do at home. I also offer sex therapy. Whether you are an individual or couple, part of a monogamous or open relationship I offer a safe, non- judgemental, confidential space for you to share your experience.
(613) 522-0625 View (613) 522-0625
Photo of Zahra Nafar, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Zahra Nafar
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
9 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and the director of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling Clinic with locations in Ottawa, Kingston and the GTA. My experience includes years of advanced training in psychology, neuroscience and genetics, providing trauma-informed interventions for clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). I utilize a client-centred methodology to provide a compassionate and safe therapeutic environment for my clients.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and the director of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling Clinic with locations in Ottawa, Kingston and the GTA. My experience includes years of advanced training in psychology, neuroscience and genetics, providing trauma-informed interventions for clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). I utilize a client-centred methodology to provide a compassionate and safe therapeutic environment for my clients.
(343) 306-4498 View (343) 306-4498
Photo of Paule-Christiane Nken, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Paule-Christiane Nken
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
Vous sentez-vous peut-être coincé, dépassé ou incompris ? Vivez-vous de l’anxiété, de la détresse émotionnelle ou des difficultés relationnelles qui affectent votre quotidien ? Vous cherchez un espace sécuritaire pour vous exprimer, mieux comprendre ce que vous ressentez et développer des stratégies concrètes pour aller mieux. Votre objectif est de retrouver un équilibre, renforcer votre autonomie et avancer à votre rythme, dans un climat de confiance et de respect. Je suis là pour vous accompagner avec écoute, bienveillance et authenticité dans ce cheminement vers un mieux-être durable.
Vous sentez-vous peut-être coincé, dépassé ou incompris ? Vivez-vous de l’anxiété, de la détresse émotionnelle ou des difficultés relationnelles qui affectent votre quotidien ? Vous cherchez un espace sécuritaire pour vous exprimer, mieux comprendre ce que vous ressentez et développer des stratégies concrètes pour aller mieux. Votre objectif est de retrouver un équilibre, renforcer votre autonomie et avancer à votre rythme, dans un climat de confiance et de respect. Je suis là pour vous accompagner avec écoute, bienveillance et authenticité dans ce cheminement vers un mieux-être durable.
(343) 313-3843 View (343) 313-3843
Photo of Carolanne Tomsine, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Carolanne Tomsine
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now welcoming new clients. Book a consultation directly on my website. I offer a warm space where you can explore who you authentically are. If you've noticed that you often feel confused about your emotions or navigating relationships, I can help. I offer support to those who have experienced trauma, as well as those who struggle with low mood, anxiety (interpersonal, general, etc.) or emotional dysregulation. My approach is trauma-informed and attachment-informed to support your embodied understanding of current patterns while working towards forming new ones. I would be honoured to support you as you enter into your healings.
Now welcoming new clients. Book a consultation directly on my website. I offer a warm space where you can explore who you authentically are. If you've noticed that you often feel confused about your emotions or navigating relationships, I can help. I offer support to those who have experienced trauma, as well as those who struggle with low mood, anxiety (interpersonal, general, etc.) or emotional dysregulation. My approach is trauma-informed and attachment-informed to support your embodied understanding of current patterns while working towards forming new ones. I would be honoured to support you as you enter into your healings.
(343) 655-3141 View (343) 655-3141
Photo of Sana Syed-Ahmad, Registered Psychotherapist, MPE, MACP, RP
Sana Syed-Ahmad
Registered Psychotherapist, MPE, MACP, RP
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
I became a therapist because, just like you, I am human and have had my fair share of battles. It took a long time for me to get to where I am today. I recognize that in moments of hopelessness, it is hard to find determination, that depression can be scary, that anxiety can be overwhelming, and that traumatic experiences can leave one feeling emotionally exhausted and drained out. I acknowledge the stigma associated with mental health and in going to therapy. For this reason, I know how crucial it is to provide therapy that is client-centered, empathetic, and unique to each person’s needs.
I became a therapist because, just like you, I am human and have had my fair share of battles. It took a long time for me to get to where I am today. I recognize that in moments of hopelessness, it is hard to find determination, that depression can be scary, that anxiety can be overwhelming, and that traumatic experiences can leave one feeling emotionally exhausted and drained out. I acknowledge the stigma associated with mental health and in going to therapy. For this reason, I know how crucial it is to provide therapy that is client-centered, empathetic, and unique to each person’s needs.
(289) 206-8705 View (289) 206-8705
Photo of Laura Murton - Laura Murton Psychotherapy , Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Laura Murton Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Ottawa, ON K1Y
We work in a warm, gentle and collaborative relationship with you to foster your healing processes and growth. Laura has been a Psychotherapist for 12 years, working with issues stemming from trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, loss, or role transitions. Many clients use psychotherapy as a safe container to understand themselves better and consider our work an integral part of their self-care practice. Many of our clients' goals are to learn to have more compassionate, aware and accepting relationships with themselves and to deepen their ability to connect with others in more meaningful and satisfying ways.
We work in a warm, gentle and collaborative relationship with you to foster your healing processes and growth. Laura has been a Psychotherapist for 12 years, working with issues stemming from trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, loss, or role transitions. Many clients use psychotherapy as a safe container to understand themselves better and consider our work an integral part of their self-care practice. Many of our clients' goals are to learn to have more compassionate, aware and accepting relationships with themselves and to deepen their ability to connect with others in more meaningful and satisfying ways.
(343) 307-0579 View (343) 307-0579
Photo of Landon Beitz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Landon Beitz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
Welcoming new clients! I work with individuals, couples, and kids (8+) to help navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship struggles, addictions, attachment concerns, and trauma. No matter where you are in life, I’m here to provide a safe and supportive space.
Welcoming new clients! I work with individuals, couples, and kids (8+) to help navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship struggles, addictions, attachment concerns, and trauma. No matter where you are in life, I’m here to provide a safe and supportive space.
(343) 453-3639 View (343) 453-3639
Photo of Jeffory Lucas, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RP, CCAC, ICADC, CCTACP
Jeffory Lucas
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RP, CCAC, ICADC, CCTACP
Ottawa, ON K1R
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for substance use or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Individuals struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for substance use or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Individuals struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.
(613) 704-4101 View (613) 704-4101
Photo of Laura S Stradwick - Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic, Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
The Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic is a specialized mental health and wellness clinic that emphasizes mind-body and brain-based healing approaches. We provide psychological and neurofeedback services for children, adolescents, and adults to promote enhanced awareness, self-regulation, psychological resilience, and healing. We emphasize the importance of providing an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport, while developing individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practice.
The Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic is a specialized mental health and wellness clinic that emphasizes mind-body and brain-based healing approaches. We provide psychological and neurofeedback services for children, adolescents, and adults to promote enhanced awareness, self-regulation, psychological resilience, and healing. We emphasize the importance of providing an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport, while developing individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practice.
(613) 226-6767 View (613) 226-6767
Photo of Christina Ross, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Christina Ross
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma, cultural and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ affirming. Waitlist till January 2026. My lived experience in a biracial and multicultural family has taught me never to judge or assume. Whatever your background or worldview, I am here to walk with you through this beautiful, messy world that brings both joy and sorrow. I can help you resolve issues with food, codependence, self-esteem, unresolved childhood concerns, body image, culture and spirituality, and more. I also work with new Canadians, ‘3rd culture kids’ and anyone struggling to balance multiple cultural identities.
Trauma, cultural and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ affirming. Waitlist till January 2026. My lived experience in a biracial and multicultural family has taught me never to judge or assume. Whatever your background or worldview, I am here to walk with you through this beautiful, messy world that brings both joy and sorrow. I can help you resolve issues with food, codependence, self-esteem, unresolved childhood concerns, body image, culture and spirituality, and more. I also work with new Canadians, ‘3rd culture kids’ and anyone struggling to balance multiple cultural identities.
(343) 644-4338 View (343) 644-4338
Photo of Laura Randolph - Laura Randolph, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Laura Randolph
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Online Only
I have been working in clinical and community settings in mental health since 2011. I am honoured to support individual adults who are experiencing grief due to death or other loss, self-esteem and relationship issues, substance use, depression, anxiety, and traumatic injury. We all have within us a resilience to confront and handle even the most challenging of issues and I have such admiration of an individual's courage to explore and seek guidance in enhancing the quality of their life. A confidential, compassionate, and personalized approach to care is my priority.
I have been working in clinical and community settings in mental health since 2011. I am honoured to support individual adults who are experiencing grief due to death or other loss, self-esteem and relationship issues, substance use, depression, anxiety, and traumatic injury. We all have within us a resilience to confront and handle even the most challenging of issues and I have such admiration of an individual's courage to explore and seek guidance in enhancing the quality of their life. A confidential, compassionate, and personalized approach to care is my priority.
(613) 704-5471 View (613) 704-5471
Photo of Nicholas Saikali, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Nicholas Saikali
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of my clients come to therapy while navigating life’s challenges, transitions, and stressors. Some are dealing with anxiety or emotional difficulties, while others simply want a space to better understand themselves and what they’re going through. I support teens and adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of what’s wrong, and are looking for clarity, direction, and meaningful change.
Many of my clients come to therapy while navigating life’s challenges, transitions, and stressors. Some are dealing with anxiety or emotional difficulties, while others simply want a space to better understand themselves and what they’re going through. I support teens and adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of what’s wrong, and are looking for clarity, direction, and meaningful change.
(343) 843-1760 View (343) 843-1760
Photo of Yasmin Hollis, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Yasmin Hollis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1T
Accepting New Clients for Virtual and In-Person. We all have moments when we feel like we're not good enough. It can happen at work, school, in our relationships, or when we look at ourselves in the mirror. Sometimes that "not good enough" feeling becomes overwhelming and stops us from being the person we want to be and leaves us feeling anxious, sad, alone, or disconnected. In our relationships, that feeling can lead to conflict, miscommunication and emotional distance. At EvenMind I am here to help you navigate those feelings, as an individual or as a couple, from a kind, empathetic and non-judgmental place.
Accepting New Clients for Virtual and In-Person. We all have moments when we feel like we're not good enough. It can happen at work, school, in our relationships, or when we look at ourselves in the mirror. Sometimes that "not good enough" feeling becomes overwhelming and stops us from being the person we want to be and leaves us feeling anxious, sad, alone, or disconnected. In our relationships, that feeling can lead to conflict, miscommunication and emotional distance. At EvenMind I am here to help you navigate those feelings, as an individual or as a couple, from a kind, empathetic and non-judgmental place.
(343) 338-9281 View (343) 338-9281
Photo of Abdullahi Adan, Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW
Abdullahi Adan
Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW
Online Only
My clients are adults who have been holding things together for a long time — through trauma, burnout, grief, or the quiet weight of a life that no longer feels manageable. Many are navigating anxiety, work or school stress, or the challenges of adjusting to a new country or culture. Some have never tried therapy; others have and weren't sure it helped. What they share is a readiness — however tentative — to feel more like themselves again. I help them slow down, make sense of what they're carrying, and build practical, lasting change at a pace that always feels safe.
My clients are adults who have been holding things together for a long time — through trauma, burnout, grief, or the quiet weight of a life that no longer feels manageable. Many are navigating anxiety, work or school stress, or the challenges of adjusting to a new country or culture. Some have never tried therapy; others have and weren't sure it helped. What they share is a readiness — however tentative — to feel more like themselves again. I help them slow down, make sense of what they're carrying, and build practical, lasting change at a pace that always feels safe.
(343) 800-5244 View (343) 800-5244
Photo of Maki Sakata, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW
Maki Sakata
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Kokoro means “heart” in Japanese, but its meaning goes much deeper. Kokoro reflects the whole self—your intention, will, honesty, empathy, emotions, soul, and spirit. Kokoro can easily be shaken, broken, or overwhelmed. Life brings unexpected and stressful events, shifts in environment, and changes in family roles and responsibilities as we move through different life stages. The weight of loss, job pressures, societal expectations, and even the stories you tell yourself can lead to intense anxiety, grief, and depression that feel impossible to manage. You may find yourself searching for clarity, yet rarely finding answers.
Kokoro means “heart” in Japanese, but its meaning goes much deeper. Kokoro reflects the whole self—your intention, will, honesty, empathy, emotions, soul, and spirit. Kokoro can easily be shaken, broken, or overwhelmed. Life brings unexpected and stressful events, shifts in environment, and changes in family roles and responsibilities as we move through different life stages. The weight of loss, job pressures, societal expectations, and even the stories you tell yourself can lead to intense anxiety, grief, and depression that feel impossible to manage. You may find yourself searching for clarity, yet rarely finding answers.
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Photo of Laura Mayne, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
Laura Mayne
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Relationships can be a source of your greatest joys and your biggest challenges. And struggles within your relationships, whether it’s with your partner, a family member or in the workplace, can impact your enjoyment of your daily life. With over 30 years of experience, I have worked with couples and individuals in transforming their relationships from a source of pain and conflict to one of strength and growth. I bring my lived experience as a married lesbian and mother to a young adult to my practice. With Heartswell Counselling, I offer you a safe, inclusive space to explore your feelings and enhance your heart’s well-being.
Relationships can be a source of your greatest joys and your biggest challenges. And struggles within your relationships, whether it’s with your partner, a family member or in the workplace, can impact your enjoyment of your daily life. With over 30 years of experience, I have worked with couples and individuals in transforming their relationships from a source of pain and conflict to one of strength and growth. I bring my lived experience as a married lesbian and mother to a young adult to my practice. With Heartswell Counselling, I offer you a safe, inclusive space to explore your feelings and enhance your heart’s well-being.
(343) 800-0084 View (343) 800-0084
Photo of Lucas Mafaldo, Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Lucas Mafaldo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help professionals and couples make decisions that matter: about careers, relationships, and what kind of life to build. My clients tend to be thoughtful people facing genuinely hard choices. A career that no longer fits. A relationship at a turning point. The sense that something important is missing despite outward success. I bring clinical training together with a background in philosophy and practical reasoning. This means I take your situation seriously as a real problem to be worked through, not just feelings to be managed. If you're facing a decision that's bigger than a pros-and-cons list can handle, we should talk.
I help professionals and couples make decisions that matter: about careers, relationships, and what kind of life to build. My clients tend to be thoughtful people facing genuinely hard choices. A career that no longer fits. A relationship at a turning point. The sense that something important is missing despite outward success. I bring clinical training together with a background in philosophy and practical reasoning. This means I take your situation seriously as a real problem to be worked through, not just feelings to be managed. If you're facing a decision that's bigger than a pros-and-cons list can handle, we should talk.
(343) 947-1495 View (343) 947-1495

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FAQ - About Therapy for Elders
Is one ever too old for mental health therapy?
Individuals of all ages can benefit from mental health therapy. Indeed, older adults in particular may benefit from the social and psychological support a therapist can provide; the topics that older adults address in therapy may simply differ from those of younger clients. Seniors should seek out a therapist who has experience working with older individuals and who is well-versed in addressing common concerns among elderly individuals, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and physical mobility challenges.

How is counselling for elderly different from counselling for other age groups?
In general, counselling offers an opportunity for clients to process difficult life events and develop coping skills they can use outside of the therapy session. Therapists who specialise in working with elderly clients generally have the same framework but may place a special emphasis on specific topics, such as caregiver relationships and reducing loneliness. They may be specially equipped to deal with certain physical conditions or facilitate discussion surrounding end-of-life topics. Counselling for the elderly may also place a greater emphasis on social work-type topics to ensure that geriatric clients have access to necessary resources, such as food, a safe home environment, and healthcare.

How can therapy improve the quality of life of aging individuals?
Therapy for aging adults can greatly improve quality of life by providing an opportunity for them to process difficult emotions related to end-of-life, navigate relational or caregiver challenges, and develop coping skills for common mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression. Subsequent reductions in negative emotions and mental health disorder symptoms can make day-to-day living much more manageable for aging adults and those that care for them. The ongoing relationship with a trusted therapist can also help seniors combat loneliness and provide a sense of structure for their routine.

What are the qualities to look for in therapists who see seniors?
Seniors counsellors, like mental health counselors in general, should be kind, empathetic, skilled at listening, and knowledgeable about their particular area of expertise. Counsellors specialising in working with the senior population should be very familiar with the aging process in general and the common conditions that the elderly can face, such as dementia, depression, loneliness, and/or physical illness. Many senior counsellors are also well-equipped to help caregivers and families navigate the aging process of their loved ones, and they may draw on Interpersonal Therapy to help facilitate improved interactions between seniors and those that care for them.