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The Team: Credentials
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KRISTEN DROZDA

Registered Psychotherapist, M.A., C.C.C., PMH-C, CYC

(416) 275-8029
Virtual Appointments

Parenting is overwhelming. From the moment you start planning a pregnancy to having adult children it can be triggering, emotional, and confusing.


Using a holistic and individualized approach throughout the therapeutic journey, I hope to support your unique experiences while working towards your personal and parenting goals.


By creating a safe and compassionate space, I want to empower you to trust yourself and your instincts as the expert on your journey and how to show up for yourself and family. I am privileged to become a member of any parents’ village to support their mental health and work towards being the parent they want to be. Through the clinic she hopes the team can be a wraparound to support parents and all of their loved ones live their best lives.


Experience

Kristen is a Registered Psychotherapist, Canadian Certified Counsellor, Child and Youth Counsellor. Kristen has a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and is Perinatal Mental Health Certified. Kristen has worked in the community with children, teens and families before moving into private practice, shifting her specialty to pregnancy and postpartum support and parenting. She has experience working with perinatal mental health disorders, infertility, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, crisis support, relationships (including premarital), co-parenting and parenting coaching and support.


Client Focus

Individuals (moms and parents), Couples, Families


Types of Therapy

Attachment Focused Approach, EMDR, EFT, CBT, DBT, Premarital, IPT


Issues & Specialities

Pregnancy and Postpartum mental health, infertility, parenting issues, infant sleep, toddler behaviour, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-parenting, children and teen mental health


More Than Just My Work

I am a mother of two young kids and a triathlete. I believe in striving for balance and doing something you love while moving your body.

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KAYLA PERSAUD

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
In-Person & Virtual Appointments

Wondering about therapy?

While there can be a specific reason to seek therapy, it’s not always clear.  At any age we can find ourselves out of our depth, and/or in the midst of despair.
Therapy offers us an opportunity to engage in self and interpersonal exploration and to make meaningful connections in our lives. It is a place where together, we can navigate life’s many challenges and work to develop strength and resilience. Our psychotherapy sessions will be holistic and address barriers to healing at the level of mind, body and spirit.

I use an integrative client-centered approach and draw from a number of therapeutic modalities in order to tailor my approach for you. I provide culturally responsive treatment, grounded in anti-oppressive, anti-racism, 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive, and trauma informed frameworks. I support clients facing challenges with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, burnout, self-esteem, life transitions, and various forms of oppression. 

In my spare time, I enjoy travelling, reading, and trying new foods. Maybe some of your hobbies overlap with mine? Whatever the answer, I’m looking forward to getting to know you. In my 10 years of experience, one thing I’ve learned is that all things change when we do- so let’s get started!

Client Focus

Couples, Families, individuals, children (starting at 10+)

Types of therapy

CBT, DBT, ACT, Family systems, Strengths-based, Attachment, Mindfulness


Issues

Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Family Conflict, Life Transitions, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, School, Issues, Self-Esteem, Stress, Trauma, and Life Transitions 

“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” – Brené Brown

The Team: Credentials
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AMBITA SEN

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), M.A., MSc., C.A.M.C.
EMDR
In-Person & Virtual Appointments

Clients are sometimes apprehensive of the type of relationship they can have with the therapist. They are uncertain if they can fully open up and express their issues and whether the therapy will help.
Solution: I approach each client as individuals with the desire to provide them comfort and by approaching their issues holistically. Then, in collaboration with the client, I am able to identify
and agree upon the therapeutic process that is attuned to their specific issues, needs and what they desire to achieve from therapy.

I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment and value the
importance of the therapeutic relationship so they can move forward with ease.

Experience

Ambita is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a Master’s degree in Counselling

Psychotherapy from Yorkville University, Canada and a Master’s degree in Organisational

Psychology from Aston University, UK. She has experience in areas of Trauma (PTSD,

Complex PTSD, Dissociative PTSD, and Acute Stress Disorder), grief and loss, anger

management, emotional regulation, relationship dynamics, attachment wounding, self-esteem,

anxiety, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Ambita also has experience of counselling individuals with terminal illnesses and their

caregivers, and work-related stressors.


Languages

English, Bengali, Hindi


Client Focus

Individuals, Children (age 4 years and above)


Types of therapy

EMDR, Advanced EMDR, DNMS, Ego State Interventions, CBT, TF-CBT,

DBT, EFT, MBSR.


Issues

(Standard) Trauma (PTSD, Complex PTSD, Dissociative PTSD, Acute Stress Disorder)

employment related stressors, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management,

relationship distress and navigating/healing from antagonistic relationships, self-esteem, mood

disorders, and emotion regulation in children.


Specialties

Trauma (PTSD, Complex PTSD, Dissociative PTSD, Acute Stress Disorder), Grief

and Loss, Anger Management, work harassment, life transitions, depression, self-worth,

obsessive compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder.


More than just my work:

I was fortunate to grow up in an open and equitable environment that inspired individuality while providing the protection and sense of security of a collective environment. This helped me relate to Herman Hesse’s saying, “Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” Varied dance forms and music from around the world have attracted me since a young age, and they bring me peace and joy. I also love cooking, yoga and meditation. These are aspects of my inner sanctuary.

The Team: Credentials
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SABINE KUSSMANN

Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Certified Counsellor, M.A., PMH-C
EMDR
Virtual Appointments

Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions while trying to sort out a difficult personal issue? Life can feel like a roller-coaster of emotions sometimes as you try to navigate through life changes, relationship issues and personal challenges.

I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental and empathetic treatment approach. I believe that every person is unique and the best approach is not cookie-cutter, but rather an individually tailored treatment plan in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.   

I strive to create a supportive therapeutic relationship and empower you to work through your struggles to help you feel better about yourself and your life. 


Experience

Sabine is a Registered Psychotherapist, has a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and is Perinatal Mental Health Certified. Over the past 5 years, I have been working with clients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, postpartum mood disorders and occupational burnout.


I have always had a passion for counselling, but started off my career in business marketing. My first experience in a counselling role was when I created and led a support group for new mothers for a local breastfeeding clinic. After becoming a professionally trained new parent mentor and support volunteer with the Down Syndrome Association of Toronto, it inspired me to transition my career into mental health counselling


Client Focus

 Individuals, including elderly adults, teens, preteens and children (starting at 6+)


Types of therapy

Attachment Focused Approach, EMDR,  CBT, DBT,  CFT and Solution Focused Therapy


Issues

Pregnancy and Postpartum mental health, parenting issues, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, children and teen mental health


More than just my work

I am a mom of two boys and enjoy outdoor activities with my family, particularly hiking, SUP and skiing. I also play the flute in a community band.

The Team: Credentials
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VALERIE KRICK

Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying), M.A. Candidate, DSW
Clinical Intern
In-Person & Virtual Appointments

Life can get overwhelming; as we traverse this world, we carry with us a multitude of suitcases from various aspects of our roles and responsibilities. I aim to encourage clients to unpack these suitcases through a strength-based, client-centered approach that validates their thoughts, feelings, and experiences then brings awareness to how to move forward. Together, in a safe and comfortable environment, we can unpack these suitcases by deciding what to discard, what to bring forward and repack your suitcase with solution-focused tools for practical everyday use. 


Experience

Valerie is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and in the process of completing her Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She completed her undergraduate degree in Disability Studies, which held a social model lens to understanding all disabling facets and social factors in one’s life. Valerie has over 15 years of experience supporting adults, teens, and children in multiple areas of social services. She currently is employed as an Educational Assistant where she supports the emotional, social, and academic learning of children with a variety of complex needs. 


Client Focus: Families, Individuals, Teens, Children (age 7+)


Types of Therapy 

CBT, EFT, DBT, Mindfulness, and play-based therapy


Issues

Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Parenting Issues, Neurodivergent Clients, Disability Issues, Trauma, School-related Issues, Behaviour Management, Children and Teen Mental Health


More than just my work

 I am a Mom to a school-aged daughter and a small pug dog. I love to play, laugh, and be creative in my everyday life. I find a sense of calm amongst nature and a hot cup of tea. 


“Give yourself permission to be kind to yourself”

The Team: Credentials
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HARNEET SAMBHI

Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying), M.A. Candidate
Clinical Intern
In-Person & Virtual Appointments

Adolescent years bring their fair share of difficulties such as school-related stress, self esteem issues, and parent-child conflicts. Sometimes these difficulties translate into adulthood, impacting our mental health.


To help individuals during this tough phase, I use a culturally responsive and socially just model of counselling combined with my belief that the client knows their identity best, and I use this understanding to learn from the client. I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment and value the importance of the therapeutic relationship so clients can move forward with ease. My lived experience with mental health motivates me to use a person-centered approach to counselling as I truly believe that the client has the power and knowledge to create positive change in their lives.

Together we will create goals and explore skills to help you overcome life's struggles. Negative life events are an inevitable part of life, and I am here to empower you to have a meaningful life and navigate the struggles accompanied with family dynamics.


Experience

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a current Yorkville University student completing my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. Over the past two years, I have worked as a Brief Outreach Worker helping children, adolescents, and parents cope with mental health related difficulties.

Client Focus

Families, individuals, children (starting at 6+)

Types of therapy

 CBT, DBT, ACT

Issues

 Anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, gender identity, ADHD, and behaviour management for children.

Specialties

 Counselling services offered in Punjabi and Hindi


More Than Just My Work


I developed my passion for spoken word poetry during my time as a peer mentor at The Lakeshore Arts for the 2SLGBTQIA+ youth community in Toronto, and I hope to publish my poems one day!

The Team: Credentials
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MICHELLE CRANSON

Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying), M.A. Candidate
Clinical Intern
Virtual Appointments

Recognizing the need for change and seeking help takes courage. Some
clients may not feel that therapy can help them with their problems and are
apprehensive to start.


I am here to help clients through their journey of growth and challenges by
working through a therapeutic process that is best suited for them. Through a holistic approach, I will help clients process their concerns and overcome life’s obstacles. I am committed to working with clients to reach their therapeutic goals. With empathy in an environment that is safe and nonjudgmental.

Experience
Michelle is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a student at Yorkville
University completing her Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology program. Over the past 10 years, Michelle has been working in the corporate world where she manages the operations of an investment bank. Michelle has also worked at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) Psychosocial department supporting patients with cancer and their families. She has worked with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) to support children with behavioral issues.

Client Focus

Couples, Families, individuals
Types of therapy: CBT, DBT, Mindfulness-based therapy, Solutions Focused, Strength Based


Issues 
Anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues

“You can’t stop waves, but you can learn to surf” Jon
Kabat-Zinn


More than just my work:

I fit in some form of meditation every day. Not only in silence but through many
other forms such as reading, movement, music, and art.

The Team: Credentials
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HARRISON HOA

Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying), M.A. Candidate

Clinical Intern

In-Person & Virtual Appointments

So many individuals and families struggle with accessing the mental health care they need. You might feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, or daily pressures and are unsure of how to cope. I understand the importance of building a strong foundation and providing personalized tools and strategies to manage your mental health and feel your best.

Creating connection with the people we love and enjoying the smaller moments in life make the biggest impact on our mental health and wellbeing. For a matter of fact, I started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) about two years ago. There is an incredible sense of discipline, focus, and camaraderie that comes with practicing this martial art. It's not just about physical strength but also about mental agility and the art of self-defense. That of which has taught me to incorporate into therapeutic practice the importance of setting goals, pushing through challenges, and finding balance in life.

When you work with me, you'll quickly see that I'm not just a therapist who understands the theories and techniques. I'm someone who knows firsthand the transformative power of pursuing passions and finding outlets for stress relief. I believe in the power of integrating practical aspects of our daily life into the therapeutic process.


Experience
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and currently completing my Master’s degree at Yorkville
University. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology (B. Sc.) at Dalhousie University and completed
my post graduate program in Addictions and Mental Health (ADMH) at Humber College. Over the past three years, I have worked at Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK), where I have provided support to
families accessing mental health programs and played a role in developing and implementing strategies to enhance services for individuals.


Client Focus
Couples, Families, and Individuals


Types of therapy
CBT, Solutions Focused, and Strengths Based


Issues
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma


More than just my work
I always set time each day to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) in both gi and no gi. That of which has proven
to be a challenging yet fulfilling experience as I reflect on the progress I have made in the last year. I have had the pleasure of meeting and learning from wonderful mentors and friends!

The Team: Credentials
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DANIELLE SUGAR

Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying), M.A. Candidate
Clinical Intern
In Person & Virtual Appointments

Do you find it hard to reach out and ask for help? Do you find it challenging to acknowledge and honour your strengths when faced with obstacles?
I am passionate about learning and understanding clients and their unique experiences while supporting them within a compassionate and collaborative counselling environment.  I pride
myself on providing a warm and safe space for my clients to share their lived experiences and worldviews through active listening. Human connection is something that I value most in the
therapeutic space.   


Experience
Danielle is currently completing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. She is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered
Psychotherapists of Ontario.
Danielle has a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from Ryerson University in Toronto (now known as Toronto Metropolitan University).   She has over 15 years of experience working
with children and youth in public and private school systems as well as hospital settings.


Danielle continues to work in an international private school setting with a large culturally diverse clientele as well as an inpatient hospital program for children and adolescents with eating disorders.


Client Focus
Couples, Families, individuals, teenagers, preteens, LGBTQ. children (starting at 10+)

Types of therapy
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused
Therapy (SFT), Mindfulness based therapy.


Issues

Parenting issues, eating disorders, grief, anxiety, depression, school-related issues, social-emotional issues, behaviour management, peer issues, ADHD, children and teen mental health


More than just my work
Danielle resides in Aurora, Ontario with her husband and 3 children ages 10, 8, and 6.  When she
is not working, Danielle loves to spend time outdoors with her family. She is also an avid movie
buff and animal lover. Danielle is proud and excited to be a part of the team.

The Team: Credentials
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RACHAEL GOODMAN

Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying, M.A. Candidate

In-Person & Virtual Appointments

Are you tired of being tired, worried, or sad and wondering how you can break this cycle for a better quality of life.   


I work with parents; both new and experienced, to help them manage the relentless demands of being a parent while balancing their own identity and mental health. I also work with teens and young adults managing their own struggles navigating all challenges of growing up, all the major transitions they’re about to go through while managing their mental health along the way.


I aim to create a warm, non-judgemental, interactive safe space for self-discovery, self- awareness and growth. This is the forefront of our therapeutic journey. I use a partnership approach, where we work together to customize this journey to your individual needs.  As a parent too, I understand the day-to-day challenges about how we can ensure our kid’s mental health is okay, while often forgetting to take care of our own. Let’s change that! You are the expert of your own life; thus, we will work collaboratively to seek meaning, empowerment and growth based on your unique experiences, strengths and needs.  


In a world of discovery and cultivating self-awareness, I applaud you for taking this first step in your therapeutic journey. Together we can do hard things and ultimately create a successional plan for a better quality of life for you and your loved ones. I look forward to being by your side, as you embark on the first step towards your self-discovery and growth.  

The Team: Credentials
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ERICA MCDIARMID

Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying, M.A.
Virtual Appointments

As you navigate life transitions, having a lack of clarity (or feeling paralyzed) about the future can cause feelings of anxiety and depression. You may be wondering what your purpose is and are looking for the answers. You find yourself overwhelmed by everyday uncertainties, impacting your ability to keep up with your responsibilities as a parent, spouse, caregiver, professional, or friend. While problems at work or home already seem like they’re enough, they also seem to be affecting other areas of your life. Feeling insecure, or like an imposter makes it feel like everything around you is breaking down and that you’re on the brink of burnout. 


In our work together, I am here to support you on your journey to more balance and well-being. Through conversation and sharing, my goal is to build a strong relationship of trust and understanding, so I can help you access the resources and develop the skills needed to reach your goals. By connecting to your values, find more alignment in all that you do.


Experience


Erica is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a graduate of the Master's of Art in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She has been working in the mental health field in the public health space for over ten years with former positions at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) as well as the Canadian Mental Health Association. Erica has experience working directly with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma, and negative perceptions of self. 


Client Focus

Individuals, Adolescence (16+)


Types of therapy 

CBT, ACT, EFT, Person-centred, Brief Solution-focused


Issues 

(Standard) Anxiety, depression, burnout

(Specialties) Low self-confidence, imposter syndrome, life transitions


More than just my work


I was a competitive figure skater growing up which taught me many life lessons I carry with me today - and I find a sense of calm and joy anytime I am on the ice!

The Team: Credentials
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AMANDA D’AVANZO

Registered Psychotherapist, M.A.
In-Person & Virtual Appointments

Daily life requires each of us to balance the expectations we set for ourselves
with the expectations of others, plan for our futures, and maneuver through multiple interpersonal relationships and social situations. These experiences can be overwhelming and difficult to process on our own.


I utilize a holistic, client-centered, and solution-focused approach throughout
the therapeutic process to help you identify your strengths and overcome your unique experiences, needs, and goals for therapy.


Together we will identify your strengths through a safe and trusting relationship
built on empathy and non-judgment. I will meet you where you are, go at your pace, and respect your autonomy. You will learn to trust yourself, heal from past traumas, restore hope, create healthy boundaries, and feel at home in your body. I am here to help you find your best self. I am here to support and empower you to feel grounded and connected, and to allow you to live the life you want to live.


Experience
Amanda is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Yorkville University
graduate with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. Her education, work, and volunteer experiences have provided the opportunity to work with and assess children, youth, young adults, and older adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, behavioural concerns, and low self-esteem. While completing an Honours BA through
York University, Amanda worked directly with clients with dementia, cancer, and depression. In addition, completion of her Postgraduate Certificate in Applied
Behaviour Analysis through Humber College provided the opportunity to work with individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Amanda’s experiences have provided her with the skills to work with vulnerable individuals from diverse backgrounds in need of guidance and mental health support.


Client Focus

 Individuals, including adults, teens, and pre-teens (starting at 11+)


Types of therapy

CBT, DBT, ACT, Compassion Focused, Person-Centered, Strength-Based

Issues
Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Family Conflict, Life Transitions, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, School, Issues, Self-Esteem, Stress, Trauma. 


More Than Just My Work

“We can, and we will.” – Kyle Dubas

The Team: Credentials
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JULIA DEL MONTE

Administrative Assistant, BA, B. Ed, PMP (qualifying)

As an administrative assistant, I strive to support clients as they navigate their journey in accessing support, whether they are commencing therapy for the first time or have been a long-standing client. At times, the process of locating a therapist that supports your specific needs as well as building relationships with new therapists can feel daunting and overwhelming. For established clients, rescheduling appointments because of changing life circumstances can also become stressful.


As an administrative assistant, I strive to make the process of accessing and/or continuing therapeutic support, smooth, easy and gentle on you. With understanding, active listening and empathy, I work to support all clients as they continue on their path to a brighter, fuller life.

Experience

Julia is a Master of Arts in Counselling student with Yorkville University. She has earned two Bachelor’s degrees and is a qualifying project manager. She has 8 years of experience in customer service and 5 years in honing her leadership skills and confidently communicating with clients and stakeholders of various needs. Julia has developed a strong skill set in problem solving and conflict resolution and has training in the health and wellness field, making her an excellent front-line candidate for our clients.

More Than Just My Work

I love walking forested trails, reading fiction and easing into meditation or yoga. Love the days when the stars align, and I get to do all three !

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The Team: Credentials
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