Therapists in M5R
Yasmin Kowlessar
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
In order to facilitate insight and cultivate empowerment, I work to support my clients in adopting mental wellness, exploring identity formation, understanding intergenerational trauma, navigating issues related to body image and gender dysphoria, and negotiating interpersonal relationships.
As a queer Trini-Canadian psychotherapist, I combine my training in psychology with my intersectional feminist values and lived experience when supporting my clients. I specialize in working with LGBTQ and BIPOC (racialized) clients as well as intersectional identities. In addition to expertise in culturally-sensitive therapy, I'm also well-versed in issues related to queer and trans health, polyamory / non-monogamy, and kink / BDSM culture.
In order to facilitate insight and cultivate empowerment, I work to support my clients in adopting mental wellness, exploring identity formation, understanding intergenerational trauma, navigating issues related to body image and gender dysphoria, and negotiating interpersonal relationships.
As a queer Trini-Canadian psychotherapist, I combine my training in psychology with my intersectional feminist values and lived experience when supporting my clients. I specialize in working with LGBTQ and BIPOC (racialized) clients as well as intersectional identities. In addition to expertise in culturally-sensitive therapy, I'm also well-versed in issues related to queer and trans health, polyamory / non-monogamy, and kink / BDSM culture.
Daniel Elias
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
You have tremendous power. The power to define your world, your relationships, your life. The power to be your true self. Yet, life can bring challenges that make us feel powerless. Passion can turn into doubt, fear, and anger. Love and joy can become pain and emptiness. For many of us, no single event alone changes us, but at some point, we find ourselves lost. I believe in the power of hope. I believe you can rediscover your strength, purpose, and sense of control. You can reclaim yourself—your courage, confidence, clarity, creativity, and compassion. I have hope that you can be who you want to be, no matter what comes your way.
You have tremendous power. The power to define your world, your relationships, your life. The power to be your true self. Yet, life can bring challenges that make us feel powerless. Passion can turn into doubt, fear, and anger. Love and joy can become pain and emptiness. For many of us, no single event alone changes us, but at some point, we find ourselves lost. I believe in the power of hope. I believe you can rediscover your strength, purpose, and sense of control. You can reclaim yourself—your courage, confidence, clarity, creativity, and compassion. I have hope that you can be who you want to be, no matter what comes your way.
Nic Lachance
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
I understand psychic and emotional crises as your body’s best effort to cope with what it is experiencing. All of our behaviours and impulses make sense if we bring a warm curiosity to the bigger picture of your life, your body, your mind and your lived experience. I work to co-create a space where you new stories about yourself can emerge, stories that are more expansive, generous and allowing of what you have lived through. Whether you are working through addiction, compulsive behaviour and thinking, anxiety, depression, grief, ruptures or general existential confusion, I am here to hold it with you.
I understand psychic and emotional crises as your body’s best effort to cope with what it is experiencing. All of our behaviours and impulses make sense if we bring a warm curiosity to the bigger picture of your life, your body, your mind and your lived experience. I work to co-create a space where you new stories about yourself can emerge, stories that are more expansive, generous and allowing of what you have lived through. Whether you are working through addiction, compulsive behaviour and thinking, anxiety, depression, grief, ruptures or general existential confusion, I am here to hold it with you.
Farah Memon
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I am fascinated by the beautiful interconnection between the mind and body. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) my vision is to promote mental wellness and reduce the stigma around it. I am passionate about improving the mental wellness of individuals along with facilitating personal growth and effective change. As my client, I will meet you where you are. I see you as a unique individual with your own strengths. Respecting your perspective, culture, and individuality is a key aspect of how we will build a therapeutic relationship. I am also constantly working towards providing a safe and inclusive space for you.
I am fascinated by the beautiful interconnection between the mind and body. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) my vision is to promote mental wellness and reduce the stigma around it. I am passionate about improving the mental wellness of individuals along with facilitating personal growth and effective change. As my client, I will meet you where you are. I see you as a unique individual with your own strengths. Respecting your perspective, culture, and individuality is a key aspect of how we will build a therapeutic relationship. I am also constantly working towards providing a safe and inclusive space for you.
Jasmine Spurrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
Dr. Lisa Bradford
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
Do you feel lonely, empty, overwhelmed or stuck? Does it seem like bad things are always happening to you while everyone else is living a happy life? Do you and your partner have the same fights over and over again? I can help you resolve these issues. I am a warm, down-to-earth, authentic, honest, and empathic person who genuinely cares about your well-being. I help individuals work through a wide variety of issues including those related to anxiety, depression, obsessionality, trauma, dissociation, guilt, shame, insomnia, relationships, sexual orientation, eating, and identity and self-esteem. I embrace and celebrate diversity.
Do you feel lonely, empty, overwhelmed or stuck? Does it seem like bad things are always happening to you while everyone else is living a happy life? Do you and your partner have the same fights over and over again? I can help you resolve these issues. I am a warm, down-to-earth, authentic, honest, and empathic person who genuinely cares about your well-being. I help individuals work through a wide variety of issues including those related to anxiety, depression, obsessionality, trauma, dissociation, guilt, shame, insomnia, relationships, sexual orientation, eating, and identity and self-esteem. I embrace and celebrate diversity.
Judith Dunstan
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
I am a gentle and bold therapist. I will listen carefully to your experiences. I will explore with you connections between your present thoughts, feelings, actions and past events. The aim is to help you understand more about yourself.
The blue print for our actions, behaviors, feelings and self-concept was put in place at a very young age. We may look for patterns that worked well in their early context, but do not work anymore. A change may be needed. The insight you gain in a committed, active therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool.
I am a gentle and bold therapist. I will listen carefully to your experiences. I will explore with you connections between your present thoughts, feelings, actions and past events. The aim is to help you understand more about yourself.
The blue print for our actions, behaviors, feelings and self-concept was put in place at a very young age. We may look for patterns that worked well in their early context, but do not work anymore. A change may be needed. The insight you gain in a committed, active therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool.
Risework Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
Registered, experienced therapists integrating evidence-based methods with a conversational approach and an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We provide clients with a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. At Risework Therapy we specialize in anxiety, self worth, and relationship issues. We also have therapists who specialize in trauma, attachment, OCD and eating disorders. Our team of therapists pride themselves in being approachable, personable and genuine. We want you to feel like you can be your authentic self as you allow us to support you in life's challenges.
Registered, experienced therapists integrating evidence-based methods with a conversational approach and an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We provide clients with a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. At Risework Therapy we specialize in anxiety, self worth, and relationship issues. We also have therapists who specialize in trauma, attachment, OCD and eating disorders. Our team of therapists pride themselves in being approachable, personable and genuine. We want you to feel like you can be your authentic self as you allow us to support you in life's challenges.
Roza Nozari
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Welcome! I am a queer-identified, trauma-trained therapist who works with individuals and couples. Wherever you have found yourself today, whether this be the beginnings of a journey, or a return, I warmly invite you in. I draw from parts work, attachment theory, trauma therapies and somatic approaches to support clients in their healing. These approaches can be helpful for those seeking support in the following areas: complex trauma and PTSD; grief, anger and rage; relationship challenges (romantic, familial, etc); intergenerational trauma; childhood woundings; "coming out;" anxiety and others.
Welcome! I am a queer-identified, trauma-trained therapist who works with individuals and couples. Wherever you have found yourself today, whether this be the beginnings of a journey, or a return, I warmly invite you in. I draw from parts work, attachment theory, trauma therapies and somatic approaches to support clients in their healing. These approaches can be helpful for those seeking support in the following areas: complex trauma and PTSD; grief, anger and rage; relationship challenges (romantic, familial, etc); intergenerational trauma; childhood woundings; "coming out;" anxiety and others.
Mihaela Dirlea
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
As a Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Qualified Mindfulness Instructor, I work with you to help you make sense of your own life experiences, understand how your past affects you now, and make positive changes. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal and professional life. Since 2009 I have studied the intersection of Buddhism and Psychology and I have partnered with several government and public institutions to run accessible mindfulness programs (including MBSR) for staff and students (i.e. Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, UofT, Central LHIN, The Princess Margaret).
As a Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Qualified Mindfulness Instructor, I work with you to help you make sense of your own life experiences, understand how your past affects you now, and make positive changes. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal and professional life. Since 2009 I have studied the intersection of Buddhism and Psychology and I have partnered with several government and public institutions to run accessible mindfulness programs (including MBSR) for staff and students (i.e. Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, UofT, Central LHIN, The Princess Margaret).
Church Wellesley Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, RP, CCC, OCT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
Clinicians accepting new patients: As a community-minded organization, we sincerely believe that emotional healing and personal growth are within your reach. Through a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens, we offer individual therapy for issues related to anxiety and depression, gender and sexuality, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), self-esteem / self-confidence, and sexual trauma. If you live in downtown Toronto, identify within the LGBTQQ2S+ community, or simply seek positive change, get in touch with us today by visiting us at www.cwcp.ca
Clinicians accepting new patients: As a community-minded organization, we sincerely believe that emotional healing and personal growth are within your reach. Through a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens, we offer individual therapy for issues related to anxiety and depression, gender and sexuality, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), self-esteem / self-confidence, and sexual trauma. If you live in downtown Toronto, identify within the LGBTQQ2S+ community, or simply seek positive change, get in touch with us today by visiting us at www.cwcp.ca
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Daniel Elias
Farah Memon
Jasmine Spurrell
Church Wellesley Counselling and Psychotherapy
Work in Progress Mental Health Collective
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
We are a diverse group of psychotherapists and social workers dedicated to anti-oppressive practice, community care and specialized support. We work with individual adults and children as well as relationships of all kinds. We know that life is challenging and in today’s fast paced, high pressure, and sometimes unforgiving society, burnout, fatigue, and lack of motivation can feel all too familiar. We know that sometimes the past can dictate the present and prevent us from taking steps toward meaningful change. No matter your challenge, our intake team can support you in finding the therapist that feels right to you.
We are a diverse group of psychotherapists and social workers dedicated to anti-oppressive practice, community care and specialized support. We work with individual adults and children as well as relationships of all kinds. We know that life is challenging and in today’s fast paced, high pressure, and sometimes unforgiving society, burnout, fatigue, and lack of motivation can feel all too familiar. We know that sometimes the past can dictate the present and prevent us from taking steps toward meaningful change. No matter your challenge, our intake team can support you in finding the therapist that feels right to you.
Savannah Nast
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), CCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
All of us are walking around with some kind of pain, big and small, whether we know it or not. We're all doing our best with what we have, though sometimes it can feel like our best isn’t enough. As your therapist, I'm happy to work with you to adapt and grow with your trauma, develop coping skills, and help reroute any that may no longer be serving you, as well as building up your feelings of safety, compassion, validation, and care. I work with clients 14+ who are learning to live with their trauma, experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, or who want to strengthen their sense of self and self-confidence.
All of us are walking around with some kind of pain, big and small, whether we know it or not. We're all doing our best with what we have, though sometimes it can feel like our best isn’t enough. As your therapist, I'm happy to work with you to adapt and grow with your trauma, develop coping skills, and help reroute any that may no longer be serving you, as well as building up your feelings of safety, compassion, validation, and care. I work with clients 14+ who are learning to live with their trauma, experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, or who want to strengthen their sense of self and self-confidence.
Tayler Middleton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I work with adults, teens, and couples who are experiencing a variety of life transitions and challenges. A stressful life event, sudden change, or recent loss can make it feel like the ground has fallen out from under you. My work is centred around helping you increase self-understanding, process difficult feelings, memories or experiences, and expand your coping abilities. Together we will establish a therapeutic space that feels safe to explore how to move towards a more balanced present.
I work with adults, teens, and couples who are experiencing a variety of life transitions and challenges. A stressful life event, sudden change, or recent loss can make it feel like the ground has fallen out from under you. My work is centred around helping you increase self-understanding, process difficult feelings, memories or experiences, and expand your coping abilities. Together we will establish a therapeutic space that feels safe to explore how to move towards a more balanced present.
Dai Kojima
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Not accepting new clients
Why does being me feel so difficult sometimes? If you’re asking this question, it's perhaps because what used to help you cope with life is no longer working. But your suffering is not your fault. I will walk with you on your journey towards discovering and unburdening the parts, feelings & needs within that have been silenced for survival. I work predominantly with racialized, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ people experiencing anxiety, depression, self-criticism, emotional difficulties and other complex-PTSD symptoms. My goal as your therapist is to help you write a new self narrative that is more liveable, authentic, and empowering.
Why does being me feel so difficult sometimes? If you’re asking this question, it's perhaps because what used to help you cope with life is no longer working. But your suffering is not your fault. I will walk with you on your journey towards discovering and unburdening the parts, feelings & needs within that have been silenced for survival. I work predominantly with racialized, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ people experiencing anxiety, depression, self-criticism, emotional difficulties and other complex-PTSD symptoms. My goal as your therapist is to help you write a new self narrative that is more liveable, authentic, and empowering.
See more therapy options for M5R
Transgender Counsellors
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.