Therapists in M5R
Marina Sadik
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
During the decade I spent working as a social scientist, I heard stories of strength, resilience, and courage. I also heard stories of humiliation, abuse, and grief. Throughout, what I have found most compelling is the storytelling. If you are here and are considering reaching out, I cannot wait to hear your story. My own journey with therapy has led me here. For most of my life, I felt I was walking in the dark, often stumbling and getting hurt. When I began therapy, it felt like someone switched a light on, allowing me to finally see the obstacles I had been running into. My goal is to help each client to turn on their own light.
During the decade I spent working as a social scientist, I heard stories of strength, resilience, and courage. I also heard stories of humiliation, abuse, and grief. Throughout, what I have found most compelling is the storytelling. If you are here and are considering reaching out, I cannot wait to hear your story. My own journey with therapy has led me here. For most of my life, I felt I was walking in the dark, often stumbling and getting hurt. When I began therapy, it felt like someone switched a light on, allowing me to finally see the obstacles I had been running into. My goal is to help each client to turn on their own light.
Marlen Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
Michael Franceschetti
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers I believe that the first step in moving towards the life you want is to accept yourself and your position as they are. This is not a request to settle, but rather, an invitation to look at the cards you hold. Only after accepting how things are can your next steps be determined. I can provide the space for you to express how difficult things are, while the healing relationship we build together will serve as the vehicle driving change. Seeking support is not easy, and you are stronger than you think by simply taking this first step.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers I believe that the first step in moving towards the life you want is to accept yourself and your position as they are. This is not a request to settle, but rather, an invitation to look at the cards you hold. Only after accepting how things are can your next steps be determined. I can provide the space for you to express how difficult things are, while the healing relationship we build together will serve as the vehicle driving change. Seeking support is not easy, and you are stronger than you think by simply taking this first step.
Ping San Chi
Registered Social Worker, MSocSc, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I believe that everyone has the potential to heal, grow, and change. I believe that we all have our own unique story. Just like a locked door, our struggles can seem insurmountable at times. But with the right support and guidance, we can find the key to unlock these barriers and live more freely. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges, tap into your inner strengths, and achieve your goals. Using a strengths-based approach, I provide a supportive and collaborative partnership to help you develop new skills and insights for a more fulfilling life.
I believe that everyone has the potential to heal, grow, and change. I believe that we all have our own unique story. Just like a locked door, our struggles can seem insurmountable at times. But with the right support and guidance, we can find the key to unlock these barriers and live more freely. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges, tap into your inner strengths, and achieve your goals. Using a strengths-based approach, I provide a supportive and collaborative partnership to help you develop new skills and insights for a more fulfilling life.
Ginelle Foskin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
Victoria Huang
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I always approach my clients in with an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, harm reduction framework. What does that mean? It means that I will always ask "what happened to you?" instead of asking "what's wrong with you?". It also means that I will always respect you as the expert in your own life. Finally, it means that I believe that everyone does their very best to survive and thrive each day–even on the days that we can't see any hope. I am here to be with you, even through the darkest of days, and help you find inspiration and hope within yourself.
I always approach my clients in with an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, harm reduction framework. What does that mean? It means that I will always ask "what happened to you?" instead of asking "what's wrong with you?". It also means that I will always respect you as the expert in your own life. Finally, it means that I believe that everyone does their very best to survive and thrive each day–even on the days that we can't see any hope. I am here to be with you, even through the darkest of days, and help you find inspiration and hope within yourself.
Jessica Anastasi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I believe that every person is doing their best to navigate the many parts of life. When I think of therapy, I imagine someone rowing, and encountering challenging waters. Navigating unexpected circumstances requires thinking outside the box so they can reach their destination. Throughout their journey, they gain new perspectives because of both the challenges and beauty encountered along the way. I am here to row with you, entering the unknown together. I have always been passionate about holding space for others. I provide a safe, warm, approachable, and non-judgemental space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings.
I believe that every person is doing their best to navigate the many parts of life. When I think of therapy, I imagine someone rowing, and encountering challenging waters. Navigating unexpected circumstances requires thinking outside the box so they can reach their destination. Throughout their journey, they gain new perspectives because of both the challenges and beauty encountered along the way. I am here to row with you, entering the unknown together. I have always been passionate about holding space for others. I provide a safe, warm, approachable, and non-judgemental space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings.
Erin Hatton
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
My heart is for those who are overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, struggling, and disconnected. Your story has made you who you are, but it doesn’t have to define your future. I believe you are the expert on your experience and my role is to help you find yourself again. During my years working with survivors of intimate partner violence, I developed a passion for supporting people through their personal journey of growth and healing. As a mother of four teens and young adults with ADHD and ASD, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families understand neurodiversity and learn to flourish.
My heart is for those who are overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, struggling, and disconnected. Your story has made you who you are, but it doesn’t have to define your future. I believe you are the expert on your experience and my role is to help you find yourself again. During my years working with survivors of intimate partner violence, I developed a passion for supporting people through their personal journey of growth and healing. As a mother of four teens and young adults with ADHD and ASD, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families understand neurodiversity and learn to flourish.
CRC Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Hi my name is Constantine. I truly feel privileged helping you become "unstuck", through encouragement towards positive life changes, realization of potential and accomplishment of achievable goals. You are in the driver's seat and I am right beside you helping navigate through your unique journey towards self-discovery. It will be up to you where you want to go, how far and at what pace. My job will be to listen, and when you're ready I will act as a guide, suggesting possible options and interpretations along the way. If this sounds like what you're looking for, let's connect today!
Hi my name is Constantine. I truly feel privileged helping you become "unstuck", through encouragement towards positive life changes, realization of potential and accomplishment of achievable goals. You are in the driver's seat and I am right beside you helping navigate through your unique journey towards self-discovery. It will be up to you where you want to go, how far and at what pace. My job will be to listen, and when you're ready I will act as a guide, suggesting possible options and interpretations along the way. If this sounds like what you're looking for, let's connect today!
Samir Durrani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Reaching out for support can be difficult—I commend you for the courage to see what therapy can offer! As a person of colour and member of the LGBTQ+ communities, I have lived experience and special insight into what it’s like to navigate the unique challenges that come with intersectionality. I have a background in working with sexual health, resilience, wellbeing and challenges that uniquely affect intersecting persons of colour, gender and sexuality. I’m grateful to have supported many folx who went through a difficult time in their life, dealt with a mental health concern, or wanted to explore more about themselves.
Reaching out for support can be difficult—I commend you for the courage to see what therapy can offer! As a person of colour and member of the LGBTQ+ communities, I have lived experience and special insight into what it’s like to navigate the unique challenges that come with intersectionality. I have a background in working with sexual health, resilience, wellbeing and challenges that uniquely affect intersecting persons of colour, gender and sexuality. I’m grateful to have supported many folx who went through a difficult time in their life, dealt with a mental health concern, or wanted to explore more about themselves.
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
15 Second Videos
Marina Sadik
Marlen Iskander
Michael Franceschetti
Ping San Chi
Ginelle Foskin
Victoria Huang
Jessica Anastasi
Erin Hatton
CRC Counselling & Psychotherapy
Kanwaljit Kaur
Emily Galloway
Michael Hooghiem
Doreen Saskin
Daniel Elias
Shoban Jeyamuraly
Julia Bruto
Anita Owusu
Jasmine Spurrell
Esther Persaud
RN, BScN, CMT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
Whether we identify as male, female, transgendered, non-binary, mother, father, or other. I know one thing for sure; we are humans playing a part in this game of life. We all practice being human, unconsciously and/or consciously. We all experience life's most difficult trials and troubles and yes, we also experience joy. This is immutable. Given this reality, how can we live our life optimally, rich with purpose and fulfillment while balancing the curve balls, the numbness, the stress, the cravings, or the hurt? The truth is, you can do it. We can do it together. Sometimes all you need is a patient helping hand.
Whether we identify as male, female, transgendered, non-binary, mother, father, or other. I know one thing for sure; we are humans playing a part in this game of life. We all practice being human, unconsciously and/or consciously. We all experience life's most difficult trials and troubles and yes, we also experience joy. This is immutable. Given this reality, how can we live our life optimally, rich with purpose and fulfillment while balancing the curve balls, the numbness, the stress, the cravings, or the hurt? The truth is, you can do it. We can do it together. Sometimes all you need is a patient helping hand.
Affordable Therapy Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Money should never be the reason you DON'T go to therapy. We never want money to be a barrier to accessing therapy. This is why Affordable Therapy Ontario (ATO) exists: to make therapy accessible for all! Created by Building Bridges Psychotherapy, we are a diverse team of licensed therapists providing high quality therapy to those who need it. We offer in-person services in Mississauga and Vaughan, with more locations to come. We also offer therapy over video and phone. We work with individuals, couples, and families. For a full list of all the issues and concerns we work with, check out our sister website: bbtherapy.ca/services.
Money should never be the reason you DON'T go to therapy. We never want money to be a barrier to accessing therapy. This is why Affordable Therapy Ontario (ATO) exists: to make therapy accessible for all! Created by Building Bridges Psychotherapy, we are a diverse team of licensed therapists providing high quality therapy to those who need it. We offer in-person services in Mississauga and Vaughan, with more locations to come. We also offer therapy over video and phone. We work with individuals, couples, and families. For a full list of all the issues and concerns we work with, check out our sister website: bbtherapy.ca/services.
Melanie Williamson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Imagine a space where science and art harmonize, meeting you with understanding and creativity: this is the heart (and brain) of my therapy practice. I invite you on an exploration as unique as you are, where empathy lights the way. You are not alone, and I am so proud of you for taking this step! My own journey, where I overcame being unable to read until the 3rd grade, testifies that no obstacle is insurmountable with creativity, commitment, and support. I believe that for everyone, regardless of the cards dealt, there exist many paths to a fulfilling life—let’s discover together how your own path might unfold most vibrantly.
Imagine a space where science and art harmonize, meeting you with understanding and creativity: this is the heart (and brain) of my therapy practice. I invite you on an exploration as unique as you are, where empathy lights the way. You are not alone, and I am so proud of you for taking this step! My own journey, where I overcame being unable to read until the 3rd grade, testifies that no obstacle is insurmountable with creativity, commitment, and support. I believe that for everyone, regardless of the cards dealt, there exist many paths to a fulfilling life—let’s discover together how your own path might unfold most vibrantly.
Kanwaljit Kaur
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I believe that when we come to therapy, we have the potential to heal ourselves. We are the masters of our own paths in life. It’s the circumstances in our lives—such as our social environment and various other factors—which can prevent us from living up to our full potential. I believe that through therapy, these hidden potentials can be realized. As a therapist, I act as a facilitator to help my clients see what they already have inside of them, foster self-acceptance, and help them reach their life goals through discovery of the self and of one’s own strengths.
I believe that when we come to therapy, we have the potential to heal ourselves. We are the masters of our own paths in life. It’s the circumstances in our lives—such as our social environment and various other factors—which can prevent us from living up to our full potential. I believe that through therapy, these hidden potentials can be realized. As a therapist, I act as a facilitator to help my clients see what they already have inside of them, foster self-acceptance, and help them reach their life goals through discovery of the self and of one’s own strengths.
Emily Galloway
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
In order to work effectively on something, we must know its root and nature. I believe that half the battle is truly understanding why our struggles are occurring in the first place. Once we know the root of the concern and the thoughts, feelings, experiences, and ideas that reinforce its existence, we can then begin to dismantle its power—brick by brick. I believe in holding space for people to tell their stories and explore parts of themselves they may have never before felt safe to share with others. It is through this brave process of standing face-to-face with every part of who we are that we can decide who we would like to be.
In order to work effectively on something, we must know its root and nature. I believe that half the battle is truly understanding why our struggles are occurring in the first place. Once we know the root of the concern and the thoughts, feelings, experiences, and ideas that reinforce its existence, we can then begin to dismantle its power—brick by brick. I believe in holding space for people to tell their stories and explore parts of themselves they may have never before felt safe to share with others. It is through this brave process of standing face-to-face with every part of who we are that we can decide who we would like to be.
Michael Hooghiem
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Life rarely goes according to plan, and in our most difficult times, many of us have not had the support and tools needed to navigate losses, transitions, and traumas. My role is to help you find your way through hardship, while expanding your capacity to meet challenges from a place of resilience and acceptance. Your struggles are not due to your own inadequacy; rather, I believe all behaviour makes sense on some level, when viewed from the right perspective. I work from a holistic stance that accounts for the individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting each of us uniquely, and therefore requires a personalized approach.
Life rarely goes according to plan, and in our most difficult times, many of us have not had the support and tools needed to navigate losses, transitions, and traumas. My role is to help you find your way through hardship, while expanding your capacity to meet challenges from a place of resilience and acceptance. Your struggles are not due to your own inadequacy; rather, I believe all behaviour makes sense on some level, when viewed from the right perspective. I work from a holistic stance that accounts for the individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting each of us uniquely, and therefore requires a personalized approach.
Doreen Saskin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
My goal is to help you to improve your quality of life by helping you to build your resilience and coping skills. Over the last 25 years, clients have described me as being highly effective at inspiring growth and change. My approach is compassionate and direct.
My goal is to help you to improve your quality of life by helping you to build your resilience and coping skills. Over the last 25 years, clients have described me as being highly effective at inspiring growth and change. My approach is compassionate and direct.
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.
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
We are a diverse team of over 40 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
We are a diverse team of over 40 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
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.