Therapists in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON

As the Clinic Director of The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights, a virtual psychotherapy clinic based in Toronto, I specialize in Psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach focuses on revealing, understanding, and resolving underlying emotions and root causes of symptoms through evidence-based interventions and a comprehensive treatment plan. With an in-depth collaborative discussion and analysis of unconscious thoughts and emotions from childhood until the present day, we can explore how they inform us today to help relieve symptoms and develop targeted strategies to foster change.
As the Clinic Director of The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights, a virtual psychotherapy clinic based in Toronto, I specialize in Psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach focuses on revealing, understanding, and resolving underlying emotions and root causes of symptoms through evidence-based interventions and a comprehensive treatment plan. With an in-depth collaborative discussion and analysis of unconscious thoughts and emotions from childhood until the present day, we can explore how they inform us today to help relieve symptoms and develop targeted strategies to foster change.

I believe that all people have the capacity to find healing and wisdom in themselves. I approach therapy through a multicultural, trauma-informed, and queer-affirming lens where you are supported to be the expert in your own life and empowered in the work we do. We will explore together, in a collaborative way, where you feel understood and in charge of the process. I value autonomy in my own life and I want other people to learn to cultivate their autonomy and experience how powerful and intentional they can be.
I believe that all people have the capacity to find healing and wisdom in themselves. I approach therapy through a multicultural, trauma-informed, and queer-affirming lens where you are supported to be the expert in your own life and empowered in the work we do. We will explore together, in a collaborative way, where you feel understood and in charge of the process. I value autonomy in my own life and I want other people to learn to cultivate their autonomy and experience how powerful and intentional they can be.

Welcome! I'm Joshua! I'm here to support you through many issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Anxiety, LGBTQ issues, Phobias, Health Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD / ADHD), Depression, Grief, and issues related to Gender, Identity, and Sexuality among others. My approach is one based on authenticity, as I believe honesty is the best policy. That means sometimes I may gently challenge you to consider alternative perspectives or to step outside your comfort zone.
Welcome! I'm Joshua! I'm here to support you through many issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Anxiety, LGBTQ issues, Phobias, Health Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD / ADHD), Depression, Grief, and issues related to Gender, Identity, and Sexuality among others. My approach is one based on authenticity, as I believe honesty is the best policy. That means sometimes I may gently challenge you to consider alternative perspectives or to step outside your comfort zone.

My first priority is always to help my clients feel comfortable opening up and talking about what needs to be talked about. I view all of the "work" that occurs in therapy as secondary or subsequent to the building of that relationship. I tell my clients that they may not always feel completely comfortable in sessions because it is sometimes necessary to push ourselves outside of our comfort zones and talk about things that are painful or difficult to talk about. However, you can always trust me to be warm, empathetic, and compassionate.
My first priority is always to help my clients feel comfortable opening up and talking about what needs to be talked about. I view all of the "work" that occurs in therapy as secondary or subsequent to the building of that relationship. I tell my clients that they may not always feel completely comfortable in sessions because it is sometimes necessary to push ourselves outside of our comfort zones and talk about things that are painful or difficult to talk about. However, you can always trust me to be warm, empathetic, and compassionate.

"Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, down or burned out? Do you find yourself constantly juggling work, relationships, and responsibilities—while putting your own needs last? Do you wonder if life should feel less stressful, more fulfilling, or just… easier?
You’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to be this way. With 20 years of experience, I’ve helped countless clients regain clarity, set healthier boundaries, and build the resilience to feel stronger and more in control. You deserve to feel balanced and fulfilled—let’s take that first step together.
"Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, down or burned out? Do you find yourself constantly juggling work, relationships, and responsibilities—while putting your own needs last? Do you wonder if life should feel less stressful, more fulfilling, or just… easier?
You’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to be this way. With 20 years of experience, I’ve helped countless clients regain clarity, set healthier boundaries, and build the resilience to feel stronger and more in control. You deserve to feel balanced and fulfilled—let’s take that first step together.

How do you find hope? Your life is a blend of personal experiences and connections with others. You're in the process of figuring out how you fit into the tapestry of daily life. These formative years start early, and as you explore your identity and find your voice, it can often feel like navigating a maze. Maybe you're grappling with a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts, and you're seeking a safe and supportive space where you can freely express yourself.
How do you find hope? Your life is a blend of personal experiences and connections with others. You're in the process of figuring out how you fit into the tapestry of daily life. These formative years start early, and as you explore your identity and find your voice, it can often feel like navigating a maze. Maybe you're grappling with a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts, and you're seeking a safe and supportive space where you can freely express yourself.

Hi there! Thanks so much for taking the time to glance at my profile.
I like to keep things simple - I am a Registered Psychotherapist who prides herself on my direct approach with clients. I often speak quickly, am unafraid to jump in and ask questions or gently offer insight and I've been known to talk with my hands. I know that finding a therapist can be hard. It takes time, effort, emotional vulnerability and you might still not find the right fit. The whole process can be daunting. So...
Hi there! Thanks so much for taking the time to glance at my profile.
I like to keep things simple - I am a Registered Psychotherapist who prides herself on my direct approach with clients. I often speak quickly, am unafraid to jump in and ask questions or gently offer insight and I've been known to talk with my hands. I know that finding a therapist can be hard. It takes time, effort, emotional vulnerability and you might still not find the right fit. The whole process can be daunting. So...

As a psychotherapist, I offer a warm, compassionate, and collaborative space where healing and self-exploration can unfold at your own pace. My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from both traditional and body-based therapies to support emotional well-being, self-awareness, and inner connection.
As a psychotherapist, I offer a warm, compassionate, and collaborative space where healing and self-exploration can unfold at your own pace. My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing from both traditional and body-based therapies to support emotional well-being, self-awareness, and inner connection.

Hi there! I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential and live their most fulfilling lives. I provide a holistic approach and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in therapeutic and case management roles in the community and educational settings.
Hi there! I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential and live their most fulfilling lives. I provide a holistic approach and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in therapeutic and case management roles in the community and educational settings.

You might be feeling lonely in your relationship, wondering why the same issues keep coming up, or struggling to communicate in a way that feels safe and understood. Perhaps trust has been broken, and you’re not sure how to move forward. I support individuals and couples who are dating, engaged, married, or in a long-term partnership to reconnect, heal, and build something stronger than before. Whether we’re untangling miscommunications, rebuilding trust, or finding ways to bring intimacy and joy back into your relationship, my goal is to support you in moving forward with clarity and confidence.
You might be feeling lonely in your relationship, wondering why the same issues keep coming up, or struggling to communicate in a way that feels safe and understood. Perhaps trust has been broken, and you’re not sure how to move forward. I support individuals and couples who are dating, engaged, married, or in a long-term partnership to reconnect, heal, and build something stronger than before. Whether we’re untangling miscommunications, rebuilding trust, or finding ways to bring intimacy and joy back into your relationship, my goal is to support you in moving forward with clarity and confidence.

Hi! I understand how overwhelming and challenging life can be at times. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck, therapy can offer the support and guidance you need to move forward with confidence and resilience. As a licensed psychologist, my approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, kindness, and a deep respect for the unique experiences and perspectives of each of my clients.
Hi! I understand how overwhelming and challenging life can be at times. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck, therapy can offer the support and guidance you need to move forward with confidence and resilience. As a licensed psychologist, my approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, kindness, and a deep respect for the unique experiences and perspectives of each of my clients.

There are times in our lives that we cannot get a handle on the challenges in our life. Sometimes our genetics play a role, i.e. intergenerational traumas, and other times, life, and all its stressors gets overwhelming. For some, systemic barriers exist that impede a capacity for wellness. During these times, it is helpful to work with a trained therapist to support you as you find your way back to your healing, happiness and inner peace. Therapy is a process of growth, unlearning, and self-discovery. In my therapy sessions, I promote behavioral transformation and inner peace by encouraging curiosity, compassion and acceptance.
There are times in our lives that we cannot get a handle on the challenges in our life. Sometimes our genetics play a role, i.e. intergenerational traumas, and other times, life, and all its stressors gets overwhelming. For some, systemic barriers exist that impede a capacity for wellness. During these times, it is helpful to work with a trained therapist to support you as you find your way back to your healing, happiness and inner peace. Therapy is a process of growth, unlearning, and self-discovery. In my therapy sessions, I promote behavioral transformation and inner peace by encouraging curiosity, compassion and acceptance.

Are you struggling to cope with major life changes? Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or unsure of your ability to manage it all? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, a career transition, or simply feeling the need for change and new goals—life’s transitions can be tough.
Are you struggling to cope with major life changes? Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or unsure of your ability to manage it all? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, a career transition, or simply feeling the need for change and new goals—life’s transitions can be tough.

Emilia Pacholec
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5V
Not accepting new clients
If you've experienced sexual abuse (rape, childhood sexual abuse, sex trafficking) you've likely noticed changes in how you think, feel and act. Maybe you believe that you deserve what happened or that you should have done something to stop it. You may see the world as a dangerous place and struggle to trust. Perhaps you feel on edge, hypervigilant and out of control of your emotions - or maybe you don't feel them at all. You can't sleep, relationships are tough, you feel haunted by your memories. Sex and intimacy... what sex and intimacy? And it feels like nothing you've tried works. Sound familiar? It doesn't have to be this way.
If you've experienced sexual abuse (rape, childhood sexual abuse, sex trafficking) you've likely noticed changes in how you think, feel and act. Maybe you believe that you deserve what happened or that you should have done something to stop it. You may see the world as a dangerous place and struggle to trust. Perhaps you feel on edge, hypervigilant and out of control of your emotions - or maybe you don't feel them at all. You can't sleep, relationships are tough, you feel haunted by your memories. Sex and intimacy... what sex and intimacy? And it feels like nothing you've tried works. Sound familiar? It doesn't have to be this way.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps in life or work?
You may be navigating a difficult transition or facing challenges that leave you feeling vulnerable and unsure. Having a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions can be the first step toward clarity and change.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps in life or work?
You may be navigating a difficult transition or facing challenges that leave you feeling vulnerable and unsure. Having a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions can be the first step toward clarity and change.

I will work with you to understand what issues, habits, routines, and relationships that are not serving you in a positive fashion. We will work together to understand and challenge some thoughts and emotions that are not serving you productively. I find this work rewarding and exciting. I am a great listener but also will gently try to challenge some thoughts. I recognize that this process can be scary and I strive to make you feel comfortable and safe. We will work together to help you achieve a better and more full life moving forward. We will go at a pace that will be consistent and effective.
I will work with you to understand what issues, habits, routines, and relationships that are not serving you in a positive fashion. We will work together to understand and challenge some thoughts and emotions that are not serving you productively. I find this work rewarding and exciting. I am a great listener but also will gently try to challenge some thoughts. I recognize that this process can be scary and I strive to make you feel comfortable and safe. We will work together to help you achieve a better and more full life moving forward. We will go at a pace that will be consistent and effective.

As a queer first-generation Palestinian-Spanish Canadian Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) and Master of Arts student in Counselling Psychology, I offer a space where clients navigating identity, trauma, neurodivergence, and cultural or generational complexities can feel seen and supported. I work best with individuals exploring their sense of self, healing from past experiences, or unlearning internalized narratives. I value client collaboration, safety, and self-discovery, and work with my clients towards empowerment and meaningful change.
As a queer first-generation Palestinian-Spanish Canadian Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) and Master of Arts student in Counselling Psychology, I offer a space where clients navigating identity, trauma, neurodivergence, and cultural or generational complexities can feel seen and supported. I work best with individuals exploring their sense of self, healing from past experiences, or unlearning internalized narratives. I value client collaboration, safety, and self-discovery, and work with my clients towards empowerment and meaningful change.

Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, people-pleasing and emotion regulation? Do you feel like you’re not quite good enough, you can never actually reach your goals, or you just can’t seem to do “life” right? Maybe you experienced trauma from growing up in a household with emotionally immature parents. Maybe you have late-diagnosed (or undiagnosed) ADHD, and chronic feelings of being “defective” loom over you constantly. You need a therapist who will help you actually PROCESS what's going on, not just listen. You need somebody who can hold you accountable to making real change in your life, and call you on your shit
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, people-pleasing and emotion regulation? Do you feel like you’re not quite good enough, you can never actually reach your goals, or you just can’t seem to do “life” right? Maybe you experienced trauma from growing up in a household with emotionally immature parents. Maybe you have late-diagnosed (or undiagnosed) ADHD, and chronic feelings of being “defective” loom over you constantly. You need a therapist who will help you actually PROCESS what's going on, not just listen. You need somebody who can hold you accountable to making real change in your life, and call you on your shit

Ian Forbes
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q)
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M4Y
Ian offers a compassionate and personalized approach to helping individuals navigate the challenges and difficulties stopping them from living their fullest lives. With a focus on holistic healing and person-centred therapy, Ian offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions and experiences, empowering them to make positive changes and improve their overall well-being. Ian supports those struggling with relationships and connection, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or otherwise experiencing difficulties with emotional well-being.
Ian offers a compassionate and personalized approach to helping individuals navigate the challenges and difficulties stopping them from living their fullest lives. With a focus on holistic healing and person-centred therapy, Ian offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions and experiences, empowering them to make positive changes and improve their overall well-being. Ian supports those struggling with relationships and connection, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or otherwise experiencing difficulties with emotional well-being.

One of the bravest things a person can do is to begin to understand their own story. Life's challenges, both big and small, can become overwhelming to manage and carry alone. My role as your therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your experiences, express your feelings, and navigate the path to emotional healing and growth. My own healing journey has led me to this work with a passion for welcoming you here as you are. While working together, I aim to reflect back your worth and validate your experiences, knowing that each feeling you carry is invaluable to discovering more of your wholeness.
One of the bravest things a person can do is to begin to understand their own story. Life's challenges, both big and small, can become overwhelming to manage and carry alone. My role as your therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your experiences, express your feelings, and navigate the path to emotional healing and growth. My own healing journey has led me to this work with a passion for welcoming you here as you are. While working together, I aim to reflect back your worth and validate your experiences, knowing that each feeling you carry is invaluable to discovering more of your wholeness.
See more therapy options for Central Toronto, Toronto
Nearby Searches for Central Toronto, Toronto
- Chinatown
- Don Mills
- Downtown
- Flemingdon Park
- Leslieville
- Parkdale
- Summerhill
- West Toronto
- Weston-Mount Dennis
- Yorkville
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
3,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Counsellors in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
84% | Self Esteem |
80% | Stress |
71% | Life Transitions |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
70% | Green Shield Canada |
68% | SunLife |
67% | Manulife |
How Counsellors in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Central Toronto, Toronto?
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.