Sheeba Narikuzhy

I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and their families and adults with major mental health challenges. My journey in the mental health field began when I attended University of Calicut (India) for bachelor’s in nursing. Recognizing my passion for mental health, I pursued my studies in Psychology and obtained my master’s degree in Psychology at the University of Annamalai in India. Since then, I moved to Toronto where I kick-started my career as an individual and family therapist at East Metro Youth Services (EMYS). After several years at EMYS, I moved into various managerial roles ranging from clinical supervisor, clinical manager, and eventually a clinical director at Youthdale Treatment Centers in Toronto. In addition to my work at EMYS and Youthdale, I have worked in the adult inpatient psychiatry/eating disorders unit at University Health Network and inpatient psychiatry unit at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto. My diverse work experience fostered my passion in suicide prevention and promotion of mental health services in diverse communities. As such, I have been involved in various provincial and national level organizations such as the Mental Health Commission of Canada (advisory council member-2013-2019) and the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (Board Director 2017-2023). I have been involved in a few CAMH research projects focusing on culturally adapting CBT for East and South Asian populations.

My approach: I use a strength -based, trauma informed, client centred and culturally sensitive approach. Therapy is tailored to the unique needs, strengths and circumstances of individual clients. I believe that everyone has their own inherent capabilities and strengths. I work collaboratively with individuals to use their own inner strengths for enhancing their functioning, optimizing their hope and reaching their goals. I primarily use CBT & DBT strategies; however, I incorporate various other therapeutic models and techniques (such as ACT, solution focused, brief, narrative and family therapy) as relevant to the needs of the individuals. A good therapeutic relationship is essential for the success of therapy. Building and maintaining a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients is a focus throughout the therapeutic process. Some of the common mental health challenges that I have mostly worked with include generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, panic disorder, depression, suicidality, borderline personality disorder, trauma, eating disorders, school/ work related problems and relational challenges.