As a queer-identifying Registered Psychotherapist, I’ve always been fascinated by the various intricacies that take place throughout the lives of queer individuals. Queer people often face specific challenges that cis-het people may not fully encounter in their lives or understand completely. Although I believe being a queer therapist allows for a bit of a baseline understanding of these experiences, I still lean into curiosity in my sessions, and believe we are all unique with our stories. The goal of my sessions is for you to better understand yourself and what you’re going through, so we can work to make positive change in your life. Connection is important to me, in both my work and personal life. Every person is unique, and finding a therapist fit for your unique needs can make the journey that much more valuable. I see the therapeutic relationship as the starting point for the therapeutic journey - therapy is an investment and a commitment, and I see the relationship that we create as one that will be significant to both of us. Our lives are based around connection, so why should the therapy process be any different? When I’m not working, I also lean into connection - I spend most of my time with my dog Cascade, my cats Tom and Yuki, and the many lovely people who make me feel whole. I love spending time in the company of others, whether it’s snuggling up with my dog on the couch or meeting up with some friends or family for dinner. Connecting with others is important, but that’s not to say I don’t enjoy my alone time! When I’m alone, I enjoy listening to and playing music, going for hikes, taking naps, doing yoga, and cooking up new recipes. I completed an undergraduate honours degree in biochemistry and neuroscience. I remained on the science path after my degree, but eventually, I realized this path wasn’t bringing me happiness. At that point, I leaned into my interest in human psychology and my helping nature and pursued a career in a field that satisfied my desire for connection. I began my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and started my private practice shortly after graduating. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their emotions and experiences. Whether it’s overcoming current hurdles, or working through past trauma, I believe that we are all capable of making positive change. My areas of focus include trauma, relationships, neurodivergence, ethical non-monogamy, personality disorders, and gender exploration. Using an integrated approach stemming from attachment-based theories, and leaning into modalities such as IFS, ACT, relational and psychodynamic therapy, I work with clients to better understand the root of their problems and patterns, and find their path towards growth and healing.

Drawing from my personal journey, which includes navigating life with a hearing aid, undergoing reconstructive surgeries, navigating complex family dynamics, experiencing my parents' divorce, enduring miscarriage, and coping with Complex PTSD, I am deeply passionate about helping adult clients navigate recovery from childhood and generational trauma. My own experiences with therapy, healing, and spiritual awakening have fueled my dedication to this work. I strive to provide empathetic support and guidance, drawing from both professional training and lived experience, to assist others in their healing journeys. Are you confused about how you feel and struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, anger, or shame? Working together, we can explore and build up a tolerance to sit with uncomfortable sensations when you feel uncertain and talk about issues from childhood that hold you back from being assertive, confident, and authentic as an adult. Steady progress towards change creates a gradual shift to improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, low mood, and insecurity. Techniques I use for exploration include talk therapy, guided therapeutic imagery, somatic inquiry, emotional release, subpersonality work, and mindfulness. I am a warm, empathetic listener, and passionate about exploring the mind, body, and soul connection. Together, we can heal wounds from your past that will allow you to thrive in your present life. You will leave feeling empowered to set boundaries, express how you feel, have a safe space to express your emotions, and meet with the younger version of you to resolve limiting beliefs. I would be honoured to work with you to gain the confidence to live out loud! Contact me to book a free 15-minute introductory call or your first session today!

As we journey through life, unfair things happen. The associated thoughts, feelings and people can stay with us as painful memories, create a sense of burden and influence our future expectations. While we can't change the past, it is under our control to change the way we look at what happened. As challenging events and relationships unfold, we can control how we respond. We do this by becoming more aware of automatic negative reactions and replacing them with healthier thoughts, feelings and behaviours. In sessions, we explore thoughts, ideas, feelings, behaviours and interpersonal patterns that cause us to feel "stuck" in life. I use a variety of different treatments such as CBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Brainspotting, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness Interventions. I have training and experience in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (level 3). Authenticity, compassion and empathy are the heart of my practice. Through periods of suffering in my life, there has been accelerated personal growth and life-changing insights. This is probably true for you too. However, there comes a point at which continuing to suffer for past experiences is no longer useful. Now is the time to start your process of healing. Different narratives may lead to different life experiences.

Step into the realm of Gestalt therapy with me, where we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, awareness, and the courage to be fully yourself. Focusing on the present moment, I collaborate with you to foster self-awareness and redefine progress on your terms, exploring how early experiences shape present realities, and trusting the wisdom of your body to guide our work together. I completed the 5-year therapist training program at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto, and am currently exploring additional training in Developmental Somatic Psychotherapy. My integrative approach supports you to integrate developmental and relational trauma as we work towards empowerment, enabling you to make new choices and embrace your wholeness. My experience as a queer person, as well as my commitment to anti-oppression and inclusion in myself and others, is a cornerstone of my values, and informs my work with clients.

I have helped numerous individuals, couples and families overcome emotional and behavioural difficulties as well as promote happier, healthier living: Self Esteem, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Addiction, Sex Therapy, Coping Skills, Stress Management, Depression, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Trauma and PTSD, Substance Use, Anxiety Disorders, Internet Addiction, Eating Disorders, Suicidal Ideation, Drug Abuse, Anger Management, Family Conflict - Mediation & Communication, Mood Disorders, Career Guidance, Alcohol Use, Anxiety, PTSD, Divorce, Antisocial Personality, OCD, Life Coaching, Men's Issues. I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities, combining elements from CBT, Mindfulness techniques, Psychodynamics, and Talk-Therapy. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach; you have your answers, and together we have the power of our therapeutic relationship to collaborate in achieving your goals and improving overall well-being. Seeking help and opening up to a stranger can be overwhelming. No matter what challenges you may be facing, I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. I believe that every individual is unique and deserves a personalized approach to therapy that addresses their specific needs and goals.

I am toronto based muslim, compassionate, a team player, a positive candidate, approachable, and flexible. I have a license to practice in Ontario from CRPO. I speak English and Urdu fluently. I am available to work during days, evenings and weekends. My future goals are to be continually involved in professional development that enhances my skills and overall gives me valuable experience. I am currently enrolled in learning about other modalities like ACT, trauma-focused CBT and EMDR. I have experience working with children and youth with diverse backgrounds having mental health issues and facing barriers e.g. marginalized populations. I have obtained a bachelor’s in child development, and my interest in counselling developed during my graduate studies. During the early years of my studies, I realized how important it is to bring mental health awareness to our community for the sake of the children. In future, my focus will be increasing access to effective treatment, and making quality mental health more accessible to those in need.

I view respect, curiosity, and compassion as the pillars to reconnecting with one’s sense of self through exploration of emotional, psychological, relational, and physiological distress. Each of us is made up of many different parts, all of which exist for a reason. By bringing awareness and understanding to wounded and struggling parts of self, we can learn what they need to heal. Therapy will focus on developing strategies, exploring emotions, accessing inner resources, and implementing tools in support of healing, growth, and health. Any topic can be discussed in therapy, no matter how big or small.

I value being a compassionate post-modern and systemic therapist who creates a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients to explore and address various concerns. With a focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship, I prioritize ensuring that clients feel understood, valued, and supported throughout their journey. I draw from post-modern and systemic principles, acknowledging the impact of sociocultural contexts and personal histories on individuals. Through collaborative efforts, clients gain agency and discover healing and meaning in their experiences and relationships. I specialize in assisting clients with emotional regulation, trauma recovery, relationship configurations (including open dynamics and polyamory), trust building after ruptures (e.g. infidelity), grief processing, communication skills, sexual orientation and gender identity, and self-compassion. Holistic Approach: Using a blend of cognitive and experiential techniques, I offer a comprehensive therapeutic experience. Clients receive personalized guidance and support, whether they prefer structured sessions or a more flexible approach, tailored to their unique goals and needs. Client-Centered Care: