Strength-Based Therapists in East York, ON

Photo of Chrissy Gallo - Abloom Therapy: ADHD, Autism, Relationships, MACP, CYC, SSW, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Abloom Therapy: ADHD, Autism, Relationships
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, CYC, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, ON M4G  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Chrissy Gallo - RP (Qualifying), MACP, CYC, SSW. Sometimes, our experiences can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and dysregulated. These emotions can impact our relationships with others and our relationships with ourselves. I encourage therapeutic growth by nurturing the inner child, making peace with the inner critic, and reconnecting clients with their authentic sense of self. I value the healing impact of our parts being seen, heard, validated, and accepted. I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Person-Centered, Self-Compassion, Existential, Narrative, Strength-based, Attachment-based, & Polyvagal Theory.
Hi, my name is Chrissy Gallo - RP (Qualifying), MACP, CYC, SSW. Sometimes, our experiences can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and dysregulated. These emotions can impact our relationships with others and our relationships with ourselves. I encourage therapeutic growth by nurturing the inner child, making peace with the inner critic, and reconnecting clients with their authentic sense of self. I value the healing impact of our parts being seen, heard, validated, and accepted. I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Person-Centered, Self-Compassion, Existential, Narrative, Strength-based, Attachment-based, & Polyvagal Theory.
(365) 809-1784 View (365) 809-1784
Photo of Stephanie Shields, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Shields
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4G
I provide a safe, warm and supportive environment that uses strength-based approaches to achieve real results.
My practice offers psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and parents. People who contact me usually do so because they are experiencing difficulty managing as they face life's challenges or are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of stress, depression or anxiety. By the time people contact me they have usually been in distress for some time. They want some relief, they want clarity and they don't want to feel judged.
I provide a safe, warm and supportive environment that uses strength-based approaches to achieve real results.
My practice offers psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and parents. People who contact me usually do so because they are experiencing difficulty managing as they face life's challenges or are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of stress, depression or anxiety. By the time people contact me they have usually been in distress for some time. They want some relief, they want clarity and they don't want to feel judged.
(647) 492-8321 View (647) 492-8321
Photo of Zlata Kovaltchouk, MA, RPC, RP, Counsellor
Zlata Kovaltchouk
Counsellor, MA, RPC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, ON M4H  (Online Only)
My approach is supportive, compassionate, strength-based, and client-centred. The course of therapy will unfold differently for every client. It will depend on you and your needs. Together we will work in a safe, genuine, and supportive environment, to begin to find solutions, navigate through challenges, and build the skills that will help you work through difficult obstacles and move towards positive change. My goal is to help clients get unstuck and moving in the direction of a rich and meaningful life, by cultivating a different type of relationship with their thoughts and feelings.
My approach is supportive, compassionate, strength-based, and client-centred. The course of therapy will unfold differently for every client. It will depend on you and your needs. Together we will work in a safe, genuine, and supportive environment, to begin to find solutions, navigate through challenges, and build the skills that will help you work through difficult obstacles and move towards positive change. My goal is to help clients get unstuck and moving in the direction of a rich and meaningful life, by cultivating a different type of relationship with their thoughts and feelings.
(365) 298-0221 View (365) 298-0221
Photo of Saadia Ahmad, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker
Saadia Ahmad
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4J  (Online Only)
In a non-judgmental manner and a strength-based approach, I will provide you with the tools to move forward and create change.
Whether you have been in therapy at different points in your life or are considering therapy for the first time, we will work collaboratively for you to gain a better sense of overall well-being. Working together we can identify unhelpful patterns and learn more effective ways of coping as you may find yourself experiencing challenges in life including managing relationships, regulating difficult emotions, dealing with family conflict/issues, struggling with self worth, and adapting to change.
In a non-judgmental manner and a strength-based approach, I will provide you with the tools to move forward and create change.
Whether you have been in therapy at different points in your life or are considering therapy for the first time, we will work collaboratively for you to gain a better sense of overall well-being. Working together we can identify unhelpful patterns and learn more effective ways of coping as you may find yourself experiencing challenges in life including managing relationships, regulating difficult emotions, dealing with family conflict/issues, struggling with self worth, and adapting to change.
(437) 747-7753 View (437) 747-7753
Photo of Linda Pawluch Msw Rsw, MSW RSW
Linda Pawluch Msw Rsw
MSW RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4A
I work from a strength-based, collaborative and trauma-informed approach.
Welcome to my web-page and thank you for checking out my practice profile. I have 20 years of providing professional mental health supports to my clients and bring a warm and compassionate presence to my work with you. I seek to create a safe environment in which we collaboratively process difficult feelings towards making meaningful changes to create a more fulfilled life. I use an integrative model tailored to your specific needs. If you are stuck in unhelpful relationship interpersonal cycles; need clarity on life transitions, family dynamics or struggling with a difficult past, I can support you.
I work from a strength-based, collaborative and trauma-informed approach.
Welcome to my web-page and thank you for checking out my practice profile. I have 20 years of providing professional mental health supports to my clients and bring a warm and compassionate presence to my work with you. I seek to create a safe environment in which we collaboratively process difficult feelings towards making meaningful changes to create a more fulfilled life. I use an integrative model tailored to your specific needs. If you are stuck in unhelpful relationship interpersonal cycles; need clarity on life transitions, family dynamics or struggling with a difficult past, I can support you.
(437) 524-0421 View (437) 524-0421
Photo of Jocelyn Hsu, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jocelyn Hsu
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I integrate therapy methods and practice in the anti-oppression, anti-racism framework with a strength-based focus.
Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, like life is especially hard right now. You might be overwhelmed by current challenges, exhausted from past trauma, or anxious about the future. If you’re ready to focus on growth and mental well-being, I’m here to support you. With over 18 years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I’ve helped many through tough situations, including trauma across various stages of life. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions, each tailored to meet your unique needs as you face these challenges.
As a therapist, I integrate therapy methods and practice in the anti-oppression, anti-racism framework with a strength-based focus.
Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, like life is especially hard right now. You might be overwhelmed by current challenges, exhausted from past trauma, or anxious about the future. If you’re ready to focus on growth and mental well-being, I’m here to support you. With over 18 years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I’ve helped many through tough situations, including trauma across various stages of life. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions, each tailored to meet your unique needs as you face these challenges.
(289) 206-8777 View (289) 206-8777
Photo of Danielle Phegan, AAMFT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Danielle Phegan
Registered Psychotherapist, AAMFT, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the innate ability of every individual to grow and heal, sometimes we need help. For twenty five years I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families and groups on their healing journeys. I work with an anti-oppression and client-centered perspective, which celebrates the unique needs of every client I see. Therapy is an evolving collaboration that needs a safe space to explore challenging feelings, thoughts and relationships in support of new insights, repair, and connection.
I believe in the innate ability of every individual to grow and heal, sometimes we need help. For twenty five years I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families and groups on their healing journeys. I work with an anti-oppression and client-centered perspective, which celebrates the unique needs of every client I see. Therapy is an evolving collaboration that needs a safe space to explore challenging feelings, thoughts and relationships in support of new insights, repair, and connection.
(416) 892-0701 View (416) 892-0701
Photo of Jeffrey Reffo - LGBTQ Counselling , MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
LGBTQ Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4C  (Online Only)
My name is Jeffrey (he/they). LGBTQ Counselling is a therapeutic practice dedicated to the care of, and treatment for, members (18+ only) of queer (LGBTQ2SIA+) communities by a queer identified counsellor. I also offer Clinical Supervision for therapists/counsellors and qualifying therapists.
My name is Jeffrey (he/they). LGBTQ Counselling is a therapeutic practice dedicated to the care of, and treatment for, members (18+ only) of queer (LGBTQ2SIA+) communities by a queer identified counsellor. I also offer Clinical Supervision for therapists/counsellors and qualifying therapists.
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Photo of Dr. Kelly Mandarino, PhD, MSW, RSW, BSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Dr. Kelly Mandarino
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW, BSW, BA
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4K  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of clinical practice with children, teens, adults and families with complex needs. I work with my clients' strengths to build coping skills and resiliency while simultaneously exploring recurring themes stemming from attachment wounds or unmet needs. Having one foot in the present and one in the past helps determine how early relational experiences often continue to impact current challenges and relationships. Feeling comfortable with your therapist is first and foremost, so I offer a free phone consultation to see if we may be a good fit.
Hello and welcome! I am a Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of clinical practice with children, teens, adults and families with complex needs. I work with my clients' strengths to build coping skills and resiliency while simultaneously exploring recurring themes stemming from attachment wounds or unmet needs. Having one foot in the present and one in the past helps determine how early relational experiences often continue to impact current challenges and relationships. Feeling comfortable with your therapist is first and foremost, so I offer a free phone consultation to see if we may be a good fit.
(647) 931-5965 View (647) 931-5965
Photo of Sarah Pirrotta - DBT => Abloom Therapy: Anxiety, Life Transitions, RP, CCC, MACP, BFA, Registered Psychotherapist
DBT => Abloom Therapy: Anxiety, Life Transitions
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MACP, BFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East York, ON M4G  (Online Only)
Are you ready for more than just validation? Are you wrapped up tight in your suffering? I invite you to unfold here. Unfold and explore your pain, your curiousity, your resistance, your strength, your power, your joy, your vulnerability, and your peace. Hi, I’m Sarah - the founder of Abloom Therapy & Wellness based in Ontario. I spent 23+ years navigating the corporate professional world. In that time, I also married, became a mom, and divorced. I also discovered my most treasured core value - human connection - fueled by a desire to preserve and promote the well-being of others, and to nurture my own well-being in the same ways.
Are you ready for more than just validation? Are you wrapped up tight in your suffering? I invite you to unfold here. Unfold and explore your pain, your curiousity, your resistance, your strength, your power, your joy, your vulnerability, and your peace. Hi, I’m Sarah - the founder of Abloom Therapy & Wellness based in Ontario. I spent 23+ years navigating the corporate professional world. In that time, I also married, became a mom, and divorced. I also discovered my most treasured core value - human connection - fueled by a desire to preserve and promote the well-being of others, and to nurture my own well-being in the same ways.
(289) 301-8427 View (289) 301-8427
Photo of Hazel S Zemel, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hazel S Zemel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4G
I'm a therapist with 35+ years experience in working with people like you and problems like yours. My passion is work with families, couples and individuals looking for more satisfying and rewarding relationships. I see you as a unique individual, and excite in developing new solutions that suit your needs. I believe that your children teach you how to be their 'best' parent and your parents hand over a legacy that you can continue or you can create a new one to pass on. I have worked in 3 countries & specialize in Couples & Family -transitions, loss, parenting, trauma, anxiety & finding joy. Sessions are every 2wks for 90 min.
I'm a therapist with 35+ years experience in working with people like you and problems like yours. My passion is work with families, couples and individuals looking for more satisfying and rewarding relationships. I see you as a unique individual, and excite in developing new solutions that suit your needs. I believe that your children teach you how to be their 'best' parent and your parents hand over a legacy that you can continue or you can create a new one to pass on. I have worked in 3 countries & specialize in Couples & Family -transitions, loss, parenting, trauma, anxiety & finding joy. Sessions are every 2wks for 90 min.
(289) 301-8517 View (289) 301-8517
Photo of Mihaela Anghel, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mihaela Anghel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C  (Online Only)
You are capable and bright. You are ambitious and perseverant. But there are so many demands on your life, so many responsibilities. In juggling all the balls- children, spouse, your career, the house chores, friends- you find yourself exhausted and drained, and not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. All the sleep in the world does not seem to cut it. All the self care advice in your IG feed does not make a difference. You know you need to find a better way to live life, but where to get started? Is therapy the answer? Life coaching? Better self care? How about all of the above? Awareness + tools and techniques +action!
You are capable and bright. You are ambitious and perseverant. But there are so many demands on your life, so many responsibilities. In juggling all the balls- children, spouse, your career, the house chores, friends- you find yourself exhausted and drained, and not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. All the sleep in the world does not seem to cut it. All the self care advice in your IG feed does not make a difference. You know you need to find a better way to live life, but where to get started? Is therapy the answer? Life coaching? Better self care? How about all of the above? Awareness + tools and techniques +action!
(647) 699-4073 View (647) 699-4073
Photo of Morgan Llewellyn, BScN, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Morgan Llewellyn
Registered Psychotherapist, BScN, RP
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4K
You may be at a point in your life when you want to look at the barriers that are getting in your way or envision a different situation than you have now. Whether you are sorting through an overwhelming life event, or are wondering why you feel a certain way, I want to understand your experience and what is important to you. It is key that you feel supported to bring forward what you want to talk about so that together we can begin to make sense of what is going on for you.
You may be at a point in your life when you want to look at the barriers that are getting in your way or envision a different situation than you have now. Whether you are sorting through an overwhelming life event, or are wondering why you feel a certain way, I want to understand your experience and what is important to you. It is key that you feel supported to bring forward what you want to talk about so that together we can begin to make sense of what is going on for you.
(647) 559-4699 View (647) 559-4699
Photo of Julie Zikman Toporoski, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julie Zikman Toporoski
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East York, ON M4K
My empathic, non-judgmental approach to clients seeking support for a broad range of difficulties has lead to effective therapeutic partnerships for over twenty years. I have extensive experience conducting assessments and providing personalized therapy for individuals, couples, families and groups dealing with complex difficulties.
My empathic, non-judgmental approach to clients seeking support for a broad range of difficulties has lead to effective therapeutic partnerships for over twenty years. I have extensive experience conducting assessments and providing personalized therapy for individuals, couples, families and groups dealing with complex difficulties.
(289) 272-7172 View (289) 272-7172
Photo of Dara Klug, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Dara Klug
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
East York, ON M4A  (Online Only)
Life is beautiful but it is also hard, exhausting, sad, messy and temperamental. Coping with the intense pressures and stress we face can be very challenging and isolating. I believe therapy is about having a relationship where we can safely and authentically explore and discover where we tend to hide parts of ourselves, run away, and hold back our truth from the world. Together we will explore this in a manner that welcomes and supports your whole being to foster an ongoing process of self-awareness, healing and self development - and towards you moving in the world with greater resiliency, authenticity and a deeper sense of self.
Life is beautiful but it is also hard, exhausting, sad, messy and temperamental. Coping with the intense pressures and stress we face can be very challenging and isolating. I believe therapy is about having a relationship where we can safely and authentically explore and discover where we tend to hide parts of ourselves, run away, and hold back our truth from the world. Together we will explore this in a manner that welcomes and supports your whole being to foster an ongoing process of self-awareness, healing and self development - and towards you moving in the world with greater resiliency, authenticity and a deeper sense of self.
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Photo of Sarah Gilbert, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Gilbert
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4C
The cornerstone of my work is in building relationships where clients feel listened to, validated, and able to build trust in the therapeutic process. Together, we start with identifying areas of concern as well as personal strengths, and work towards finding strategies to move towards positive change. Through the process, there is a wonderful opportunity for learning more about yourself and those around you. Talking about issues that may be causing you distress is an incredibly important step in building life-long skills of self-awareness, self-care, and self-compassion.
The cornerstone of my work is in building relationships where clients feel listened to, validated, and able to build trust in the therapeutic process. Together, we start with identifying areas of concern as well as personal strengths, and work towards finding strategies to move towards positive change. Through the process, there is a wonderful opportunity for learning more about yourself and those around you. Talking about issues that may be causing you distress is an incredibly important step in building life-long skills of self-awareness, self-care, and self-compassion.
(647) 697-6428 View (647) 697-6428
Photo of Tara Koblitz - Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy), MSW, RSW, CPT-S, Registered Social Worker
Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
(647) 560-3917 View (647) 560-3917
Photo of Naeema Hashmani, BSc, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Naeema Hashmani
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, ON M4K
I am a passionate therapist with over 11 years of counselling, crisis intervention, and case management experience. It is my privilege to support and guide you on your journey as you gain deeper insight into your life and your needs. You may be going through a change or a difficult time in your life, I can help you through it. Self-awareness and self-acceptance lead to growth and balance. Explore. Express. Evolve.
I am a passionate therapist with over 11 years of counselling, crisis intervention, and case management experience. It is my privilege to support and guide you on your journey as you gain deeper insight into your life and your needs. You may be going through a change or a difficult time in your life, I can help you through it. Self-awareness and self-acceptance lead to growth and balance. Explore. Express. Evolve.
(647) 360-3159 View (647) 360-3159
Photo of Farheen Jamal - Leaside Child Therapy Centre, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leaside Child Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4C
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
(416) 505-3590 View (416) 505-3590
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Letourneau - Starling Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Starling Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
East York, ON M4K
Starling Psychological Services is a multidisciplinary mental health clinic offering therapy services to adults in Ontario. Our goal is to provide professional and ethical psychotherapy for a range of mental health concerns and everyday problems. Our team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists has extensive training and experience helping our clients to improve symptoms and develop the skills and strategies needed to make positive changes in their lives. We take a collaborative approach to counselling and work with our clients to set therapy goals and create a treatment plan to address them.
Starling Psychological Services is a multidisciplinary mental health clinic offering therapy services to adults in Ontario. Our goal is to provide professional and ethical psychotherapy for a range of mental health concerns and everyday problems. Our team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists has extensive training and experience helping our clients to improve symptoms and develop the skills and strategies needed to make positive changes in their lives. We take a collaborative approach to counselling and work with our clients to set therapy goals and create a treatment plan to address them.
(866) 383-6128 View (866) 383-6128
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Strength-Based Counsellors

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.