Strength-Based Therapists in Milton, ON

Photo of Maleeha Hamid, Registered Social Worker in Milton, ON
Maleeha Hamid
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T
Over the past fifteen years, I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. As a registered social worker, I use a strength-based approach to address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger management, difficulties in relationships – including parent / child relationships, struggles with self-esteem, improving coping strategies, and more. My clinical work includes (but is not limited to) working extensively with youth and their families in regards to understanding family culture / dynamics, effective communication, practicing validation, relationship mindfulness skills, and emotion management.
Over the past fifteen years, I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. As a registered social worker, I use a strength-based approach to address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger management, difficulties in relationships – including parent / child relationships, struggles with self-esteem, improving coping strategies, and more. My clinical work includes (but is not limited to) working extensively with youth and their families in regards to understanding family culture / dynamics, effective communication, practicing validation, relationship mindfulness skills, and emotion management.
(905) 749-0108 View (905) 749-0108
Photo of Syeda Nosheen Raza Zaidi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Milton, ON
Syeda Nosheen Raza Zaidi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. My passion for supporting people in their healing journey is rooted in a massive stigma around mental health, which I experienced while growing up in Pakistan. I have worked towards raising awareness about maternal and children health issues, pregnancy stress, postpartum depression, and respectful parenting. I provide compassionate, people-centered, and strength-based support to help people cope with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and PTSD, stress, relationship and family issues, grief, etc.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. My passion for supporting people in their healing journey is rooted in a massive stigma around mental health, which I experienced while growing up in Pakistan. I have worked towards raising awareness about maternal and children health issues, pregnancy stress, postpartum depression, and respectful parenting. I provide compassionate, people-centered, and strength-based support to help people cope with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and PTSD, stress, relationship and family issues, grief, etc.
(365) 305-0140 View (365) 305-0140
Photo of Nada Jarmakani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Milton, ON
Nada Jarmakani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, DIPT, MACP, CTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
I offer compassionate, holistic, and strength-based therapy to empower individuals dealing with challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, trauma,burnout, and anger management.
Are you struggling to get through the day and feel disconnected from your self and others? Whether you're a newcomer to Canada, coping with a personal crisis or relationship conflicts, or experiencing daily stress, these experiences can be overwhelming. As a multicultural therapist, I understand the impact of these challenges on individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. Difficult times can take a toll on mental well-being, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Let's work together to help you discover new possibilities, build hope, and create a life that is meaningful, inspiring, and fulfilling.
I offer compassionate, holistic, and strength-based therapy to empower individuals dealing with challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, trauma,burnout, and anger management.
Are you struggling to get through the day and feel disconnected from your self and others? Whether you're a newcomer to Canada, coping with a personal crisis or relationship conflicts, or experiencing daily stress, these experiences can be overwhelming. As a multicultural therapist, I understand the impact of these challenges on individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. Difficult times can take a toll on mental well-being, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Let's work together to help you discover new possibilities, build hope, and create a life that is meaningful, inspiring, and fulfilling.
(548) 900-0178 View (548) 900-0178
Photo of Exalted Mind & Wellness Inc., Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Exalted Mind & Wellness Inc.
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, BA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
This therapeutic setting allows individuals to proceed at their own pace through a strength-based approach to reach their goals and feel a higher satisfaction within themselves and their lives.
Our mission at Exalted Mind & Wellness is to support individuals in providing psychological, emotional/mental care to heal and improve your life. The name Aliya, translates to "Exalted" "One who climbs upwards", a meaning that has played an important role throughout my journey. When one struggles with mental health concerns, they often feel down and not like themselves; nor may they view themselves in positive regards, our vision is to empower every individual through to "ascend forward" and strengthen their abilities to overcome their mental health challenges, and to start viewing themselves positively climbing upwards.
This therapeutic setting allows individuals to proceed at their own pace through a strength-based approach to reach their goals and feel a higher satisfaction within themselves and their lives.
Our mission at Exalted Mind & Wellness is to support individuals in providing psychological, emotional/mental care to heal and improve your life. The name Aliya, translates to "Exalted" "One who climbs upwards", a meaning that has played an important role throughout my journey. When one struggles with mental health concerns, they often feel down and not like themselves; nor may they view themselves in positive regards, our vision is to empower every individual through to "ascend forward" and strengthen their abilities to overcome their mental health challenges, and to start viewing themselves positively climbing upwards.
(289) 804-6096 View (289) 804-6096
Photo of Mirmahmoud Mirnasab, Psychologist in Milton, ON
Mirmahmoud Mirnasab
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T
I am a psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. With over 20 years of experience in academic and clinical settings as a university professor and psychologist, I provide psychological assessments and behavioural and cognitive-behavioural therapy for various child and adolescent mental health concerns. I apply a goal-oriented, strength-based, and non-judgmental approach in my practice to help my clients share their unique life stories that contribute to positive treatment outcomes. I use age-appropriate language and activities to build a strong rapport with children and adolescents.
I am a psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. With over 20 years of experience in academic and clinical settings as a university professor and psychologist, I provide psychological assessments and behavioural and cognitive-behavioural therapy for various child and adolescent mental health concerns. I apply a goal-oriented, strength-based, and non-judgmental approach in my practice to help my clients share their unique life stories that contribute to positive treatment outcomes. I use age-appropriate language and activities to build a strong rapport with children and adolescents.
(289) 799-7281 View (289) 799-7281
Photo of Tara Kanerva in Milton, ON
Tara Kanerva
MA, Therapy, Hypno, NLP, Coach
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L0P
I operate from a strength based approach, using a powerful combination of NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) hypnosis and Time Line Therapy®. I work in person and online. We will achieve success by uncovering the unconscious patterns and programming that is keeping you stuck! We work where behaviour, emotions and reactions are actually coming from. Huge shifts happen fast, even when they have been suffering for years. There is a way to heal that is easier and simpler - without talking about all the content, and reliving the pain. Free Consults available online and I will work on a sliding scale in these tough times.
I operate from a strength based approach, using a powerful combination of NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) hypnosis and Time Line Therapy®. I work in person and online. We will achieve success by uncovering the unconscious patterns and programming that is keeping you stuck! We work where behaviour, emotions and reactions are actually coming from. Huge shifts happen fast, even when they have been suffering for years. There is a way to heal that is easier and simpler - without talking about all the content, and reliving the pain. Free Consults available online and I will work on a sliding scale in these tough times.
(226) 605-5705 View (226) 605-5705
Photo of Sunita Sandhu, Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Sunita Sandhu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9E  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience as a Registered Psychotherapist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating mental health challenges. Specializing in areas such as life transitions, fertility/infertility, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and work stressors, I bring a wealth of expertise to address diverse concerns. My holistic approach centers around your individual needs and strengths. Employing client-centered, strength-based, trauma-informed, and collaborative perspectives, I integrate techniques from modalities such as neuroscience, emotion regulation, solution-focused, attachment, and Schema therapy.
With over a decade of experience as a Registered Psychotherapist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating mental health challenges. Specializing in areas such as life transitions, fertility/infertility, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and work stressors, I bring a wealth of expertise to address diverse concerns. My holistic approach centers around your individual needs and strengths. Employing client-centered, strength-based, trauma-informed, and collaborative perspectives, I integrate techniques from modalities such as neuroscience, emotion regulation, solution-focused, attachment, and Schema therapy.
(343) 305-1091 View (343) 305-1091
Photo of Mechelle Thomas, Registered Social Worker in Milton, ON
Mechelle Thomas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RN, BSCN
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
As a holistic Social Worker, I place a strong emphasis on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of wellness. I work within an inclusive, trauma-informed, anti-racist, anti-oppressive framework that incorporates principles of intersectionality. Moreover, I practice from a culturally relevant, client-centred, strength-based perspective, centred on a non-judgemental, collaborative approach. With compassion, honesty, warmth, and presence, I hold space for clients to use their innate curiosity and introspection to address the root causes of their challenges, strengthen relationships, and build meaningful connections.
As a holistic Social Worker, I place a strong emphasis on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of wellness. I work within an inclusive, trauma-informed, anti-racist, anti-oppressive framework that incorporates principles of intersectionality. Moreover, I practice from a culturally relevant, client-centred, strength-based perspective, centred on a non-judgemental, collaborative approach. With compassion, honesty, warmth, and presence, I hold space for clients to use their innate curiosity and introspection to address the root causes of their challenges, strengthen relationships, and build meaningful connections.
(437) 747-8816 View (437) 747-8816
Photo of Emily J Roberts, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Milton, ON
Emily J Roberts
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), DKATI, RP(Qu)
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T
I use a person-centred and strength-based approach, so I'll always follow your lead to create an experience as unique as you are.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or lost? Are you struggling to keep up with the changes in your life? Maybe you’re struggling to find the words to describe what you’re going through. If this sounds like you, I can help. I'm Emily - a cisgender, queer, neuro-diverse person with a passion for art and mental health. I support children 10+, teens, adults, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals both in-person and online using both art therapy and talk therapy. No art skill or experience is required!
I use a person-centred and strength-based approach, so I'll always follow your lead to create an experience as unique as you are.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or lost? Are you struggling to keep up with the changes in your life? Maybe you’re struggling to find the words to describe what you’re going through. If this sounds like you, I can help. I'm Emily - a cisgender, queer, neuro-diverse person with a passion for art and mental health. I support children 10+, teens, adults, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals both in-person and online using both art therapy and talk therapy. No art skill or experience is required!
(289) 277-2827 View (289) 277-2827
Photo of Candice Hamilton-Miller, Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Candice Hamilton-Miller
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc, BA, RP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
CHM Therapy Services offers a range of psychotherapeutic services, specializing in individual therapy for young children, teens and adults and family therapy. I also offer group workshops, phototherapy, COGMED working memory training and parent/life coaching. Techniques used with clients include a personalized blend of cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness therapy, behavior therapy, play therapy; attachment therapy, narrative therapy, psychotherapy, vision boards and phototherapy.
CHM Therapy Services offers a range of psychotherapeutic services, specializing in individual therapy for young children, teens and adults and family therapy. I also offer group workshops, phototherapy, COGMED working memory training and parent/life coaching. Techniques used with clients include a personalized blend of cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness therapy, behavior therapy, play therapy; attachment therapy, narrative therapy, psychotherapy, vision boards and phototherapy.
(289) 210-6234 View (289) 210-6234
Photo of Rabail Awan, Registered Social Worker in Milton, ON
Rabail Awan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
As a Registered Social Worker and a Therapist, I'm deeply committed to assisting individuals throughout their journey of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. My passion lies in supporting women as they navigate life transitions and evolving relationships. Additionally, I work with those feeling isolated and seeking to better understand themselves and their emotions. Fluency in Urdu and Punjabi equips me to provide inclusive counselling services tailored to diverse South Asian populations.
As a Registered Social Worker and a Therapist, I'm deeply committed to assisting individuals throughout their journey of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. My passion lies in supporting women as they navigate life transitions and evolving relationships. Additionally, I work with those feeling isolated and seeking to better understand themselves and their emotions. Fluency in Urdu and Punjabi equips me to provide inclusive counselling services tailored to diverse South Asian populations.
(289) 276-1358 View (289) 276-1358
Photo of Syeda Gilani, Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Syeda Gilani
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
It seems like no one truly understands how challenging it is to walk the line between two cultures. On one side, there's your family's unique dynamics, expectations, and responsibilities. On the other, the Western norms for work, dating, parenting, and living. The combination creates a tremendous amount of stress, leaving you feeling down, anxious, depressed, and full of guilt. You know you need help setting healthy boundaries, and focusing on self-care, but you need someone who understands the challenges associated with adopting a new culture and society while staying connected and grounded with your own cultural values.
It seems like no one truly understands how challenging it is to walk the line between two cultures. On one side, there's your family's unique dynamics, expectations, and responsibilities. On the other, the Western norms for work, dating, parenting, and living. The combination creates a tremendous amount of stress, leaving you feeling down, anxious, depressed, and full of guilt. You know you need help setting healthy boundaries, and focusing on self-care, but you need someone who understands the challenges associated with adopting a new culture and society while staying connected and grounded with your own cultural values.
(289) 207-7969 View (289) 207-7969
Photo of Kelly Pritchard, Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Kelly Pritchard
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD: a common thread in all of these issues is trauma. Whether it's a high-conflict or abusive relationship, a life-threatening event, unresolved childhood trauma, a painful social situation, or a chaotic world, trauma can have a deep & enduring impact. Many people choose trauma informed therapy to access a rich & comprehensive roadmap for cultivating inner peace, self-confidence, personal efficacy, & a positive outlook on life in the wake of loss, adversity, & tragedy. Research indicates that with concerted effort the vast majority of trauma survivors can experience significant post traumatic growth.
Anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD: a common thread in all of these issues is trauma. Whether it's a high-conflict or abusive relationship, a life-threatening event, unresolved childhood trauma, a painful social situation, or a chaotic world, trauma can have a deep & enduring impact. Many people choose trauma informed therapy to access a rich & comprehensive roadmap for cultivating inner peace, self-confidence, personal efficacy, & a positive outlook on life in the wake of loss, adversity, & tragedy. Research indicates that with concerted effort the vast majority of trauma survivors can experience significant post traumatic growth.
(705) 996-4697 View (705) 996-4697
Photo of Elizabeth Marques - Welcoming New Clients!, Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Elizabeth Marques - Welcoming New Clients!
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, or dealing with past trauma? Are you looking for a non-judgmental and safe space to talk? Are you seeking a way to move forward in your life, develop new coping strategies, build healthier relationships, and make decisions? I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood challenges, motivation, perfectionism, grief, and trauma recovery. I am skilled at supporting women who have experienced interpersonal violence, relational trauma, sexual abuse, systemic oppression, and substance use.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, or dealing with past trauma? Are you looking for a non-judgmental and safe space to talk? Are you seeking a way to move forward in your life, develop new coping strategies, build healthier relationships, and make decisions? I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood challenges, motivation, perfectionism, grief, and trauma recovery. I am skilled at supporting women who have experienced interpersonal violence, relational trauma, sexual abuse, systemic oppression, and substance use.
(289) 276-5990 View (289) 276-5990
Photo of Jana Venditti, Registered Social Worker in Milton, ON
Jana Venditti
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
My journey to becoming a psychotherapist started because I have always cared about people and their overall well being. I realized I could help others in their healing process by way of providing therapy. I truly believe that by talking about our challenges in a safe and comfortable environment with a compassionate and trained listener change and healing can happen. I also recognize this can be a scary step for some to take and I will work at whatever pace is best for the individual. I have my Masters in Social Work and have been working with children, adolescents, families and adults for over 15 years.
My journey to becoming a psychotherapist started because I have always cared about people and their overall well being. I realized I could help others in their healing process by way of providing therapy. I truly believe that by talking about our challenges in a safe and comfortable environment with a compassionate and trained listener change and healing can happen. I also recognize this can be a scary step for some to take and I will work at whatever pace is best for the individual. I have my Masters in Social Work and have been working with children, adolescents, families and adults for over 15 years.
(647) 699-5764 View (647) 699-5764
Photo of Becky Adam-Park, Registered Social Worker in Milton, ON
Becky Adam-Park
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
I am in the business of people. My passion is to empower others to make the changes they want to see in their lives. Using a client-centered, strengths based approach; I work with individuals to help build on the strengths they already hold and help them get unstuck. I believe human connection is a powerful tool and my goal is to develop a trusting relationship in a safe and non-judgmental environment where together we will build on skills, abilities and knowledge. Everyone matters and deserves the time to have someone listen.
I am in the business of people. My passion is to empower others to make the changes they want to see in their lives. Using a client-centered, strengths based approach; I work with individuals to help build on the strengths they already hold and help them get unstuck. I believe human connection is a powerful tool and my goal is to develop a trusting relationship in a safe and non-judgmental environment where together we will build on skills, abilities and knowledge. Everyone matters and deserves the time to have someone listen.
(289) 206-5213 View (289) 206-5213
Photo of Nicole Belina, Registered Social Worker in Milton, ON
Nicole Belina
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
Have you tried therapy before for your PTSD and trauma symptoms and found you hit a plateau, as if something was missing? Are you looking for a different approach? Do you suspect your trauma experience(s) may be impacting your sexual expression - like having low desire, dissociating during intimacy, or struggling to enjoy pleasure? Have you been diagnosed with things like anxiety or panic disorder, or BPD, but think these are a result of your trauma? Or, perhaps you are feeling as though watching porn or seeking sex has gotten out of control and you are looking for someone to talk to about it who isn't going to shame you.
Have you tried therapy before for your PTSD and trauma symptoms and found you hit a plateau, as if something was missing? Are you looking for a different approach? Do you suspect your trauma experience(s) may be impacting your sexual expression - like having low desire, dissociating during intimacy, or struggling to enjoy pleasure? Have you been diagnosed with things like anxiety or panic disorder, or BPD, but think these are a result of your trauma? Or, perhaps you are feeling as though watching porn or seeking sex has gotten out of control and you are looking for someone to talk to about it who isn't going to shame you.
(289) 302-5954 View (289) 302-5954
Photo of The Therapy Collective Psychotherapy and Wellness , Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Milton, ON
The Therapy Collective Psychotherapy and Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA , RP Qual
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, constant overthinking or consistent feelings of distress? Perhaps you have lost motivation, are dealing with a life transition, struggling with burnout or have extremely low energy? So many have become familiar with a state of discomfort and suffering and it can take an exceptional amount of courage to reach out for help. Reaching out is the first step and at The Therapy Collective we are here to help.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, constant overthinking or consistent feelings of distress? Perhaps you have lost motivation, are dealing with a life transition, struggling with burnout or have extremely low energy? So many have become familiar with a state of discomfort and suffering and it can take an exceptional amount of courage to reach out for help. Reaching out is the first step and at The Therapy Collective we are here to help.
(289) 274-6366 View (289) 274-6366
Photo of Estefano Xavier Ampuero, Registered Psychotherapist in Milton, ON
Estefano Xavier Ampuero
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who identifies within the LGBTQIA2+ - community. I'm providing services for the wider GTA region for people who are struggling to find connections, are dealing with oppressive families/systems and would like to get more our of their everyday routine, by setting achievable goals. Let's unpack our shared stories and change the narrative into one of empowerment, crafting a road ahead that looks enjoyable enough to take the first step towards it.
My ideal client is someone who identifies within the LGBTQIA2+ - community. I'm providing services for the wider GTA region for people who are struggling to find connections, are dealing with oppressive families/systems and would like to get more our of their everyday routine, by setting achievable goals. Let's unpack our shared stories and change the narrative into one of empowerment, crafting a road ahead that looks enjoyable enough to take the first step towards it.
(289) 274-7018 View (289) 274-7018
Photo of Philip Nicho Now Accepting New Clients!, Pre-Licensed Professional in Milton, ON
Philip Nicho Now Accepting New Clients!
Pre-Licensed Professional, CYCP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
Phil (he/him) has over 18 years of experience counselling children, adolescents and families. He specializes in working with individuals with complex mental health diagnoses, substance use issues, and conflict with the law. Phil has a particular interest in working with parents to help them bridge communication barriers, improve connection and help with overall attachment and rapport. After working with Phil, most clients have found deeper and more meaningful relationships with friends and family, and have been able to move through challenging times with a new sense of confidence and clarity.
Phil (he/him) has over 18 years of experience counselling children, adolescents and families. He specializes in working with individuals with complex mental health diagnoses, substance use issues, and conflict with the law. Phil has a particular interest in working with parents to help them bridge communication barriers, improve connection and help with overall attachment and rapport. After working with Phil, most clients have found deeper and more meaningful relationships with friends and family, and have been able to move through challenging times with a new sense of confidence and clarity.
(289) 210-5938 View (289) 210-5938

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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.