Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists in Toronto, ON
You have survived things no one should have to go through—that does not make you broken; it makes you brave. Whether you are living with the impact of sexual abuse or childhood trauma, or navigating life with DID, you do not need to untangle it alone. I work with people who carry complex trauma in their bones—who have had to adapt in incredible ways just to keep going. You can discover how to adapt to a life that reflects the safer, kinder world you deserve. Therapy with me is a space where all parts of you are welcome, especially those you have been taught to hide. I will help you to carry what is heavy and find new ways to grow.
You have survived things no one should have to go through—that does not make you broken; it makes you brave. Whether you are living with the impact of sexual abuse or childhood trauma, or navigating life with DID, you do not need to untangle it alone. I work with people who carry complex trauma in their bones—who have had to adapt in incredible ways just to keep going. You can discover how to adapt to a life that reflects the safer, kinder world you deserve. Therapy with me is a space where all parts of you are welcome, especially those you have been taught to hide. I will help you to carry what is heavy and find new ways to grow.
You may be feeling burned out, emotionally overwhelmed, or disillusioned by systems that were meant to support you. You might carry anger, grief, or numbness that has been misunderstood or pathologized, and feel tired of being told the problem is you. You’re seeking care that recognizes how structural oppression, moral injury, and chronic stress shape mental health, and you want a therapist who sees your responses as meaningful, not defective.
You may be feeling burned out, emotionally overwhelmed, or disillusioned by systems that were meant to support you. You might carry anger, grief, or numbness that has been misunderstood or pathologized, and feel tired of being told the problem is you. You’re seeking care that recognizes how structural oppression, moral injury, and chronic stress shape mental health, and you want a therapist who sees your responses as meaningful, not defective.
When your past lives on, you aren’t being fair to your future! You may feel like you are reliving the same old story and stuck in a repetitive pattern of negative thoughts, behaviour, and emotions with no way out. As a therapist, I walk with you to revisit these old stories and guide you to change this pattern. We will have an open conversation where you bring the knowledge of your life and I bring the knowledge of how a change can happen. My experience as a therapist has taught me that people need to be understood in an open, nonjudgmental, supportive and nurturing environment. Part of my job is to provide this environment.
When your past lives on, you aren’t being fair to your future! You may feel like you are reliving the same old story and stuck in a repetitive pattern of negative thoughts, behaviour, and emotions with no way out. As a therapist, I walk with you to revisit these old stories and guide you to change this pattern. We will have an open conversation where you bring the knowledge of your life and I bring the knowledge of how a change can happen. My experience as a therapist has taught me that people need to be understood in an open, nonjudgmental, supportive and nurturing environment. Part of my job is to provide this environment.
Lucie Ritchie & Heal Psychotherapy Inc.
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M9A
Neurofeedback & Trauma Therapy: The impacts of trauma rewire the brain and nervous system to experience the world as a threatening place. This adaptation alters how we relate to ourselves and others, and it leads us away from authentic identity. Trauma includes events like past childhood abuse, emotional neglect, grief, rejection, chronic pain and illness, to name a few. You may become stressed, anxious, experience intrusive thoughts, fear, and rage. You may feel alone, easily triggered, trapped, and like there’s a void within—like you just can’t be yourself again. Yet, you have no clue that it all stems from unprocessed trauma.
Neurofeedback & Trauma Therapy: The impacts of trauma rewire the brain and nervous system to experience the world as a threatening place. This adaptation alters how we relate to ourselves and others, and it leads us away from authentic identity. Trauma includes events like past childhood abuse, emotional neglect, grief, rejection, chronic pain and illness, to name a few. You may become stressed, anxious, experience intrusive thoughts, fear, and rage. You may feel alone, easily triggered, trapped, and like there’s a void within—like you just can’t be yourself again. Yet, you have no clue that it all stems from unprocessed trauma.
You deserve to feel the deep sense of peace, calm & joy on the other side of unhealed emotional pain & trauma. If you're ready to heal the root issues at the core of this pain so you can make lasting changes & show up in the world as your true self, then you're in the right place. I truly believe you aren't broken and can heal: you can feel whole on the inside. Hearing your story is my privilege; so I value working collaboratively, balancing validation with direction. I'm a highly committed therapist with 17+ years experience with all types of trauma, childhood challenges & disassociation.
You deserve to feel the deep sense of peace, calm & joy on the other side of unhealed emotional pain & trauma. If you're ready to heal the root issues at the core of this pain so you can make lasting changes & show up in the world as your true self, then you're in the right place. I truly believe you aren't broken and can heal: you can feel whole on the inside. Hearing your story is my privilege; so I value working collaboratively, balancing validation with direction. I'm a highly committed therapist with 17+ years experience with all types of trauma, childhood challenges & disassociation.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression, or addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, so you can put an end to your suffering and find permanent resolution to the problems you are experiencing. I use a highly specialized approach that can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression, or addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, so you can put an end to your suffering and find permanent resolution to the problems you are experiencing. I use a highly specialized approach that can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a big step. I work with people facing challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My approach combines mindfulness, CBT, and music therapy, always with empathy at the core. I’m here to provide care that’s fair, accessible, and personalized to fit your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward stability and a healthier mindset in a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a big step. I work with people facing challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My approach combines mindfulness, CBT, and music therapy, always with empathy at the core. I’m here to provide care that’s fair, accessible, and personalized to fit your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward stability and a healthier mindset in a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported.
Kate Lawton, RSW, Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with persistent sadness, anxiety or unwanted thoughts? If you think it's time to talk to someone, psychotherapy can help. Hi, my name is Kate. People experience me as calm and steady, warm and insightful. I work with adults experiencing severe anxiety, OCD and depression and complex post-traumatic stress disorder. I work with women in the perinatal year and offer a unique somatic treatment for Birth Trauma. My clients include Indigenous People, refugees, veterans and other Public Safety personnel covered under IFH & NIHB programs.
I work with adults of all ages. Everyone is welcome in my practice.
Are you struggling with persistent sadness, anxiety or unwanted thoughts? If you think it's time to talk to someone, psychotherapy can help. Hi, my name is Kate. People experience me as calm and steady, warm and insightful. I work with adults experiencing severe anxiety, OCD and depression and complex post-traumatic stress disorder. I work with women in the perinatal year and offer a unique somatic treatment for Birth Trauma. My clients include Indigenous People, refugees, veterans and other Public Safety personnel covered under IFH & NIHB programs.
I work with adults of all ages. Everyone is welcome in my practice.
CONGRATULATIONS. You've taken the first step towards getting help. Finding the right therapist can be difficult. For that reason, I offer an initial 40 min. consult for free. My LGBTQ positive practice is in Mind/Body & Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Problems I work with are: Sexual Abuse, Problematic Sexual Issues/Behaviours, Gender issues, Low Self Esteem, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Loss/Grief, Dissociation, Relationship issues and DID. I pay close attention to overwhelming thoughts, emotions, and sensations. My previous massage practice (1989-2014) reflects my knowledge of how emotions are expressed and often held in our bodies.
CONGRATULATIONS. You've taken the first step towards getting help. Finding the right therapist can be difficult. For that reason, I offer an initial 40 min. consult for free. My LGBTQ positive practice is in Mind/Body & Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Problems I work with are: Sexual Abuse, Problematic Sexual Issues/Behaviours, Gender issues, Low Self Esteem, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Loss/Grief, Dissociation, Relationship issues and DID. I pay close attention to overwhelming thoughts, emotions, and sensations. My previous massage practice (1989-2014) reflects my knowledge of how emotions are expressed and often held in our bodies.
Are you working through challenges, or seeking growth? Have your tried methods not been especially true? You may not have a coherent formulation of what you seek (especially for those new to therapy); part of my job is to help you reach those insights and feel hope or excitement for the change to come. If you're reticent, I welcome you to a commitment-free chat to get a better sense of the process. If you're ready and want to make a change, now is the time. My door is always open.
Are you working through challenges, or seeking growth? Have your tried methods not been especially true? You may not have a coherent formulation of what you seek (especially for those new to therapy); part of my job is to help you reach those insights and feel hope or excitement for the change to come. If you're reticent, I welcome you to a commitment-free chat to get a better sense of the process. If you're ready and want to make a change, now is the time. My door is always open.
Trying to cope with the pressures and stresses of life leaves us anxious, depressed, and disconnected from ourselves and others. Many of us fall into self-sabotaging behaviours or repeat unhealthy relationships. Many of us face the limitations of psychiatric treatment and are forced to carry the weight and stigma of diagnosis. Many of us struggle simply to maintain our creativity and our sense of self against overwhelming pressures to conform or perform. We all need the chance to check in and process our feelings and reactions, to work through the struggles of our personal history, and find new and creative ways to move forward.
Trying to cope with the pressures and stresses of life leaves us anxious, depressed, and disconnected from ourselves and others. Many of us fall into self-sabotaging behaviours or repeat unhealthy relationships. Many of us face the limitations of psychiatric treatment and are forced to carry the weight and stigma of diagnosis. Many of us struggle simply to maintain our creativity and our sense of self against overwhelming pressures to conform or perform. We all need the chance to check in and process our feelings and reactions, to work through the struggles of our personal history, and find new and creative ways to move forward.
I am experienced in working with individuals affected by PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I provide culturally sensitive services in both English and Mandarin.
In my practice, I integrate Somatic Experiencing to help stabilize the hypervigilant nervous system, access deep body-held memories, reduce hyperarousal and dissociative symptoms, and release stored biological energy from overwhelming events—supporting clients in feeling lighter and more grounded. I incorporate Hakomi Therapy to explore unconscious, limiting core beliefs that shape clients' behaviors and perceptions.
I am experienced in working with individuals affected by PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I provide culturally sensitive services in both English and Mandarin.
In my practice, I integrate Somatic Experiencing to help stabilize the hypervigilant nervous system, access deep body-held memories, reduce hyperarousal and dissociative symptoms, and release stored biological energy from overwhelming events—supporting clients in feeling lighter and more grounded. I incorporate Hakomi Therapy to explore unconscious, limiting core beliefs that shape clients' behaviors and perceptions.
I help people recover from trauma using Somatic Experiencing and adapted Internal Family Systems. I work with people who are plural or systems, Autistic, or survivors of religious, medical, or sexual violence. I prioritize transgender, 2S, and nonbinary survivors. I'm with NIHB and I am open to everyone. From Somatic Experiencing, trauma is energy trapped in the nervous system caused by incomplete protective responses. Sensations are the language of the nervous system. I will guide you to notice and listen to your body's sensations so that you can regulate your nervous system and grow your capacity to feel presence, joy, and relief.
I help people recover from trauma using Somatic Experiencing and adapted Internal Family Systems. I work with people who are plural or systems, Autistic, or survivors of religious, medical, or sexual violence. I prioritize transgender, 2S, and nonbinary survivors. I'm with NIHB and I am open to everyone. From Somatic Experiencing, trauma is energy trapped in the nervous system caused by incomplete protective responses. Sensations are the language of the nervous system. I will guide you to notice and listen to your body's sensations so that you can regulate your nervous system and grow your capacity to feel presence, joy, and relief.
Trauma can change the way you see yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. You may feel stuck in survival mode- carrying shame, fear, or grief that’s hard to name or release. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or dissociation, unsure how to feel like yourself again. I help individuals heal from trauma, childhood wounds, loss, and relationship struggles, offering a safe, compassionate space to process pain and rediscover strength. Together, we’ll rebuild your sense of self and move toward healing, connection, and lasting hope.
Trauma can change the way you see yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. You may feel stuck in survival mode- carrying shame, fear, or grief that’s hard to name or release. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or dissociation, unsure how to feel like yourself again. I help individuals heal from trauma, childhood wounds, loss, and relationship struggles, offering a safe, compassionate space to process pain and rediscover strength. Together, we’ll rebuild your sense of self and move toward healing, connection, and lasting hope.
Therapy doesn't have to be scary! I know first-hand what it can be like to suffer in silence, longing for change, and struggling to find someone who "gets" you. If you grew up in a home where you didn't get the support that you needed, if you struggled through experiences that you feel like you have never recovered from, or if you feel like a black sheep, I would be happy to co-create a non-judgmental healing space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. We can work on things like learning to understand yourself, re-gaining control of your life, and appreciating the parts of you that have clawed you out of your darkest times.
Therapy doesn't have to be scary! I know first-hand what it can be like to suffer in silence, longing for change, and struggling to find someone who "gets" you. If you grew up in a home where you didn't get the support that you needed, if you struggled through experiences that you feel like you have never recovered from, or if you feel like a black sheep, I would be happy to co-create a non-judgmental healing space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. We can work on things like learning to understand yourself, re-gaining control of your life, and appreciating the parts of you that have clawed you out of your darkest times.
I support adults struggling with PTSD and complex trauma. Whether there was an exact moment things changed, or whether you’re dealing with the long-term effects of ongoing pervasive events, trauma can be confusing, isolating, fragmented, and takes its toll. My aim is to help clients through their transition towards understanding, clarity, self-acceptance, and growth without the fear of judgment. Using an integrative trauma-informed approach I have additional training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
I support adults struggling with PTSD and complex trauma. Whether there was an exact moment things changed, or whether you’re dealing with the long-term effects of ongoing pervasive events, trauma can be confusing, isolating, fragmented, and takes its toll. My aim is to help clients through their transition towards understanding, clarity, self-acceptance, and growth without the fear of judgment. Using an integrative trauma-informed approach I have additional training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
As you go along in life, do you find yourself switching between different moods and hijacked by so many contradictory feelings and impulses that feel out of your control or conscious awareness? You may wish to live life more fully and meaningfully while you find yourself inhibited or limited with struggles between your wish for involvement in ordinary life and fear of leaving the house, mistrust of relationships, or hopelessness about future. In dealing with these personal challenges, you may feel flooded and severely anxious or in trying to disconnect or deny these responses, may feel chronically depressed and alienated from self.
As you go along in life, do you find yourself switching between different moods and hijacked by so many contradictory feelings and impulses that feel out of your control or conscious awareness? You may wish to live life more fully and meaningfully while you find yourself inhibited or limited with struggles between your wish for involvement in ordinary life and fear of leaving the house, mistrust of relationships, or hopelessness about future. In dealing with these personal challenges, you may feel flooded and severely anxious or in trying to disconnect or deny these responses, may feel chronically depressed and alienated from self.
I am a social worker and psychotherapist who has worked passionately and extensively with individuals, families and health-care organizations. Therapy is a way for people to get extra support, when you need it. If you are struggling with a personal crisis, overwhelming emotion, a life transition, problems with family or friends, career questions, or the need to move on from past events, therapy can help.
I am a social worker and psychotherapist who has worked passionately and extensively with individuals, families and health-care organizations. Therapy is a way for people to get extra support, when you need it. If you are struggling with a personal crisis, overwhelming emotion, a life transition, problems with family or friends, career questions, or the need to move on from past events, therapy can help.
Each Kalm Therapist is trained to provide personalized care, tailoring their approach to meet the unique needs of every individual. With an empathetic and holistic approach, the therapists foster a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel supported and heard. Whether through one-on-one sessions or group workshops, Kalm Therapists empower individuals to develop healthier coping strategies and create sustainable changes in their mental and emotional health.
Each Kalm Therapist is trained to provide personalized care, tailoring their approach to meet the unique needs of every individual. With an empathetic and holistic approach, the therapists foster a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel supported and heard. Whether through one-on-one sessions or group workshops, Kalm Therapists empower individuals to develop healthier coping strategies and create sustainable changes in their mental and emotional health.
I am Shawna - a passionate and innovative therapist who believes strong mental health is rooted in resilience and connection. Having worked exclusively with young cancer patients and their families over the past decade helped me realize that emotional pain and resilience are not mutually exclusive experiences - they live together. Through the process of recognizing and experiencing our deepest pain, fear and longing we can become better versions of ourselves. My style is empathic, intuitive, and interactive, and I uncover and guide my clients to use their untapped strengths, resilience, and potential for connection in their lives.
I am Shawna - a passionate and innovative therapist who believes strong mental health is rooted in resilience and connection. Having worked exclusively with young cancer patients and their families over the past decade helped me realize that emotional pain and resilience are not mutually exclusive experiences - they live together. Through the process of recognizing and experiencing our deepest pain, fear and longing we can become better versions of ourselves. My style is empathic, intuitive, and interactive, and I uncover and guide my clients to use their untapped strengths, resilience, and potential for connection in their lives.
See more therapy options for Toronto
Nearby Dissociative Disorders (DID) Counsellors Searches for Toronto
- Aurora
- East York
- Etobicoke
- Markham
- Mississauga
- North York
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Vaughan
- Woodbridge
- York
Dissociative Disorders (DID) Counsellors
How does therapy for dissociative disorders work?
Dissociation may be triggered by stress or other upsetting circumstances, and therapy can address the traumatic events at the core of an individual’s dissociation. Understanding why a person may dissociate can help the therapist and the individual come up with alternative methods of coping. A person with a dissociative disorder may get stuck on negative thinking, for example, and treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy is a gold standard for breaking such thinking. And dialectical behavior therapy, for example, can help a person manage their anguish through better emotion regulation.
Which therapies are best for dissociative disorders?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, schema therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful memories and past traumas. These therapies work to integrate an individual's different identities into one person.
Are there specific medications for dissociation?
There are no specific medications prescribed for dissociative disorders. However, psychosis, depression, anxiety, and/or panic often co-occur in dissociative disorders. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for any accompanying symptom—which may include antipsychotics like aripiprazole, antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines.
How often and how long are therapy sessions?
Like any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. There are still other patients, especially those who have co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety, who may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months.