BIPOC Therapists

Chantal Gray (she/her/hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW

I believe that healing requires stepping into discomfort. My goal is to provide a healthy space for individuals to be collaborative, heard and supported. Using anti-black, anti-oppressive lens, strength-based, trauma informed, cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness approaches; the goal is to promote self-determination and resiliency.

Gauri Mathur (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

 Mental health is a process you adopt and use in the pursuit of your chosen goals. With my knowledge, experience and zeal to endlessly advance in the field of Psychology, I aspire to bring a positive change in the life of all clients with whom I interface. With my extensive experience in therapy with adults, adolescents, and children, I strive to provide a safe place for clients to express themselves honestly which enables them to understand their true feelings and thus, create a therapeutic journey towards sustainable healing.

My work experiences have bestowed me the opportunity to enhance my therapeutic skills and augment personal attributes vital to the therapeutic process. I consider the individuality of each person and tailor my approach and skills to cater to the situation, which most optimally benefit my clients. It is my utmost belief that in order to embark on the journey of mental health, the first and most important step is to build a rapport with oneself or connect with one self.

Hiba Zafran, PhD. (she/her/hers), Occupational Therapist – Psychotherapist

I am a poet, academic, and queer multiple-migrant. My areas of practice reflect my own and my family’s path towards healing. Living as a guest on Mohawk territory in Canada, I have also taken responsibility to engage with and learn from Indigenous communities. I work part-time as an academic, which helps to improve my therapeutic practice.

Jhanelle Peters (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BSc

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the current Mental Health Clinician for the Toronto Raptors.

While I was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, I have spent several years in the United States utilizing my eclectic and interactive approach to support individuals from diverse populations and socioeconomic backgrounds. With compassion and understanding at the forefront, I work with individuals to identify strengths, tools and personal determination that can lead to positive and lifelong changes.

Kharoll-Ann Souffrant (she/her/hers) Social Work

I was born in Montreal from Haitian parents. I hold more than 16 years of volunteer and professional experience in community settings and Quebec's health and social services network. I'm an author, columnist, media commentator, public speaker on my areas of expertise. In 2020, I was named a United Nations Fellow for People of African Descent. I have been a member of the Order of Social Workers of Quebec (OTSTCFQ) since 2017.

I work in the fields of sexual violence and mental health issues, especially when it comes to Black and racialized communities. I use intersectional, feminist, anti-racist, structural, humanist, non-judgemental and person-centred approaches in her practice. I firmly believe in all individuals' self-determination, meaning that we are all the experts of our own lives. I'm known for my lifetime commitment to social justice for all.

Lori-Ann McDonald (she/her/hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, RSW

I am a Registered Social Worker, serving women in the City of Ottawa, working as a Counsellor for Sexual Assault survivors, and as a Women's Advocate at a local Domestic Violence shelter. I run my own social services-based private practice called 'The Butterfly Park Services', whose goal is to provide services that fill some of the gaps in the city and the larger province. I work from an intersectional and trauma-informed lens and approach my clients with care.

Maleha Muhammad (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

I am a certified psychotherapist with the CRPO serving individuals, couples, and groups. Life can be difficult. With current times many feel anxious and depressed about their life and the challenges they are facing. No matter the size of the problem we are all looking to feel relieved from our problems and at peace in our lives. As with any journey, the first step is to seek help and work with a licensed listener. Taking the leap of faith to trust a skilled listener can be beneficial by shedding light amidst dark times. I will work with you to find creative avenues to aid and support you in your therapeutic journey. My style of therapy is eclectic, allowing me to draw from a range of modalities based on our interactions and goals of therapy. Together we will work to determine which tools or techniques work best for your therapeutic journey.

Maya Dousti (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy

Recognizing the cultural differences in acknowledging mental health, it is important for me to provide a space for all individuals to explore their challenges and overcome their obstacles. To me, therapy is about self-awareness and healing. It takes a lot of courage to seek help, and I admire your first step into this unknown. By seeking support, you have already taken the first vital step towards self-growth. It is my goal to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space. In therapy, I work with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, life transitions, cultural issues, family and interpersonal relationships. I focus on building a strong relationship with you based on openness and collaboration. Therapy is not always easy, and it requires hard work. I want to support you to develop skills in order to thrive. I believe that lasting, positive change comes from self-awareness and the use of concrete tools to work on your goals.

Mego Nerses (he/him), Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP

I am a trauma-informed therapist who integrates social justice into my work. I have expertise in working with refugees, newcomers and BIPOC. I was awarded the Humanitarian Award in 2017 for his work with LGBTQI refugees and refugee claimants in Canada. During my 10 years of experience of working with clients, I have helped individuals and couples leave with specific insights that reshape how they feel. They come to me because I offer them unique therapeutic approaches to finding solutions and making the changes they want. Call me when you are ready, or get to know me a little bit better by checking out my website.

Naeema Hashmani, Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MEd, RP

I am a passionate therapist with over 10 years of counselling, crisis intervention, and case management experience. It is my privilege to support and guide you on your journey as you gain deeper insight into your life and your needs. You may be going through a change or a difficult time in your life, I can help you through it. Self-awareness and self-acceptance leads to growth and balance. Explore. Express. Evolve.

Nicole D'Souza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, BSW

I have a focus on working with adolescents and adults through an anti-oppressive and trauma informed lens. I use a strengths based and a client centered approach. I also have training in Narrative, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness. I also offer Trauma Sensitive Yoga as a modality in therapy or one on one yoga sessions.

Noshaba Haq (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist

We all face many challenges, stressors, and difficulties within our lives. Talking about our feelings and problems can make them less overwhelming and less distressing. My goal is to provide a welcoming and confidential place for self-reflection and growth. As a therapist, I incorporate therapeutic modalities that are backed by clinical research and have substantial evidence-base supporting effectiveness. I believe that every individual is different and has different needs. Therefore, I try to adapt therapeutic approach specific to each individual client in order to ensure long-lasting positive change and growth. With empathy and compassion, I establish and maintain a therapeutic rapport that promotes a safe and friendly environment.

Padideh Badakhshan (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist

Sometimes we feel "stuck", "frustrated", "sad", "confused", and "hopeless". And, sometimes we don't know what we are feeling at all. It is OK to feel all of these feelings, and it's OK not to know what we are feeling. My goal is to help you make sense of your feelings, and help you reach your personal goals by gaining a better understanding of yourself and the world around you. I incorporate various techniques and integrate my knowledge to suit your unique individual needs by providing a safe and non-judgemental space. This will help us gain a better understanding of you and your circumstances, and together we will find the tools you need to manage your situation. 

Pavna Sodhi (she/her/hers), RP (Registered Psychotherapist)

With over 20 years of psychotherapeutic and research experience, Pavna K. Sodhi, EdD, has interacted with a multitude of populations in both clinical and academic spaces (University of Ottawa, Yorkville University). Her professional background and personal narrative offers a unique research perspective regarding BIPOC communities, culturally responsive trauma work, and immigrant mental health concerns. Dr. Sodhi's research has been featured in national and international scholarly journals and books. She is the author of Exploring Immigrant and Sexual Minority Mental Health: Reconsidering Multiculturalism (Routledge, 2017).

Priscilla Jabouin (she/her/hers), Holistic Career Counsellor, M.A., C.C.C.,, c.o.

As “The Dream Career Expert”, my passion is to help creative professional single women feel more fulfilled and happy in their life and career. After my own need for a career change, in 2010, I returned to school to complete my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. From that moment on, I embraced my new path as a Career Development Professional and Counsellor. 

In 2015, I developed The My Map to Happiness™ Method, a 5 part self-discovery process to help my clients get deep inner clarity so they can identify what their heart truly desires (i.e., Dream Career/ Life Purpose) and gain the confidence to make it a reality (i.e., Take Action). As a Holistic Career Counsellor and Coach, International Workshop Presenter, and Advanced Yoga Teacher, I integrate my advanced degrees in psychology and education, and in-depth knowledge of yogic philosophy, to create holistic coaching programs and workshops for my diverse female clientele. My mission is to  inspire as many people as possible to wake up to a life and career they LOVE!

Rania Oustad (she/her/hers),, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)

My name is Rania Oustad and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) offering individual and couple therapy to individuals 16 years and older. Through an integrative therapeutic style, I tailor my approach to your needs and work collaboratively with you to set your goals for therapy. My mission as your therapist is to help guide you to create and restore balance and bliss in your life!

Ravin Aulak (she/her/hers), Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)

I am Registered Clinical Counsellor in Vancouver, BC with my Masters of Arts Degree in Counselling Psychology. With over 10 years of experience in support services and 5 years of experience as as a counsellor, I have had the privilege of walking alongside many folks struggling with a variety of challenges in their lives. Finding a clinician who fits your need can be challenging, so I offer a free 20-minute consults for you to decide if working with me is the best fit.

It’s an opportunity for you to express your needs and hopes for therapy, get to know more about me and my approach, and ask me any questions you may have. If we are a fit, great! If not, no pressure. I’m happy to make recommendations for other therapists who may suit your needs better.

Rita Girn (she/her/hers), Registered Social Worker and Canadian Certified Counsellor, Perinatal Mental Health - Certified

The first thing you should know about me is that I lead with my heart. I acknowledge the privilege of this work and the courage required to engage in therapy. I truly believe we are all looking for connection, belonging, and compassion, whether that is from the outside world or from within ourselves. I am honoured to walk alongside you and hold space for your most vulnerable and true self. I specialize in working with the perinatal mental health population, this includes: those trying to conceive, those that are pregnant and those in the postpartum period. Most people who specialize in working with those struggling with infertility, pregnancy challenges and the postpartum period have had their own journey. I am no stranger to these challenges during my journey towards parenthood. My purpose as a therapist is to provide specialized services that make sense for you and your goals as you grow and learn. I find great delight in seeing people heal the wounds of the past, live more wholeheartedly in the present, and have a clear vision and tools for their future. 

Ruth Unaegbu (she/her/hers), Counsellor, MA, RCC

Hi, I’m Ruth Unaegbu, founder of Ruth Unaegbu Counselling & Coaching. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #12132) and Supervisor providing private therapy and supervision services in British Columbia, Canada. I created my practice in an effort to provide counselling services for those seeking support as they encounter various issues, difficulties, and disruptions in life as well as those looking to enhance and expand. I specialize in working with creative professionals (actors/actresses, musicians, artists, etc.), athletes, parents/caregivers, and those who are a part of the adoption triad (specifically transracial adoption).

Sam Srijani (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying)

As a first-generation immigrant, I recognize just how hard it can be to navigate two very different cultural landscapes and carve out your identity. Struggling with your mental health can be even more complex and challenging when you are dealing with factors like balancing two (or more) cultures, familial expectations, cultural stigma, and a fragmented sense of self.

I strive to create a space where you can feel safe and comfortable to be your authentic self. I work from a trauma-informed, culturally-competent, LGBTQ+ affirming perspective to make sure individuals of all backgrounds, experiences and beliefs feel heard and empowered. I am experienced in working with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, and work-related stress, and I have a special focus on working with women facing challenges with self-esteem, body image and perfectionism.

Sana Huda (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist ​(Qualifying)

 At some point, you may have experienced stress, felt anxious, overwhelmed, sad, or depressed. No one is immune to these common, human conditions. Sometimes, we can work such emotions out on our own by changing our lifestyles, reading books, taking classes, or through talking with friends and family members. Other times, we notice patterns that we haven’t been able to change on our own, or issues start to overwhelm us and negatively affect our lives, relationships, and work.I hope to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients are encouraged to seek positive change and growth. I'm passionate about de-stigmatizing mental health in minority populations and working with youth minorities/POC. 

Sandeep Kaur Marwaha (she/her/hers), Occupational Therapist, MSc OT, OT Reg, (Ont)

If life transitions, multiple stressors, traumatic events, perinatal challenges, or low self-esteem leave you feeling disconnected, worthless, anxious, or frustrated, I am here to help you make sense of your pain, develop coping skills, and create a life worth living. Along with compassion, warmth, and a dash of humor, I employ culturally-sensitive and trauma-aware approaches to create an atmosphere of safety and collaboration. Seeking therapy and finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, and I commend you for your courage. I welcome you to connect with me for an initial consultation to explore what our work together could entail.

Sandra Danial (she/her/hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, H.Ba, MSW, RSW

Coming soon

Sana Chaudhry (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPE, MACP, RPQ

I became a therapist because, just like you, I am human and have had my fair share of battles. It took a long time for me to get to where I am today. I recognize that in moments of hopelessness, it is hard to find determination, that depression can be scary, that anxiety can be overwhelming, and that traumatic experiences can leave one feeling emotionally exhausted and drained out. I acknowledge the stigma associated with mental health and in going to therapy. For this reason, I know how crucial it is to provide therapy that is client-centered, empathetic, and unique to each person’s needs.

Vanessa de Souza (she/her/hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW

First and foremost, I value an authentic and non-judgmental connection with my clients that is built on empathy, respect and compassion. I draw from a number of treatment models such as narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), narrative therapy and brief-solution focused therapy. My specialities include supporting folks living with anxiety, depression, family conflict, life transitions, health changes, low self-esteem and racial trauma. As a second-generation South Asian woman, I am passionate about providing culturally responsive support and empowering BIPOC communities who might feel rejected, lost, isolated and/or confused about how to balance their family culture with the community they reside in.

Vanessa Savin (she/her/hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW

I take a strength-based, collaborative and active approach to therapy. I believe that you are the expert on your life and that you have the capacity to make changes. I integrate your lived experience with my eclectic style of therapy which includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy, to name a few. I specialize in supporting those experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, and issues related to negative self talk, low self esteem, grief and loss.

Zeel Shah (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist

I will work collaboratively with you to identify your goals in our time together and use evidence-based psychotherapeutic tools based on your unique needs. You are at the driver’s seat and you have the choice to decide where we go together. My job here is to meet you where you are in your journey and guide you in your self-exploration. When you feel lost or overwhelmed, I will be here to remind you of your skills, resiliency, and successes, and I will be here to offer tools that will make navigating this journey less overwhelming. You can count on me to be a compassionate, nonjudgmental, empathic listener, who values receiving constructive feedback when we may have taken a wrong turn. We both will be learning together.

Shamira Drice (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP

I am a Registered Psychotherapist that provides services to individual adults with particular focus on trauma (childhood trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, sexual trauma and racial trauma), anxiety disorders, and depression. I offer therapeutic services through an integrative approach; predominantly working from an Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while drawing from psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment based modalities as well.

Shanti Georgiou (she/her/hers), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA

We each have a story, what’s yours? I would be honored to hold space with you, to hear that story. All too often this is too hard for us to do on our own. As a natural helper, I’m here to listen, support and reflect while you explore your narrative. Coming from a client centered approach, I strive towards building a strong and trusted therapeutic relationship, with a non-judgmental and a safe space for you to share your experiences. I understand the struggles are real, we get tired, too busy, too overwhelmed, too everything…that eventually time passes and the feeling of ‘stuck’ remains. This is your journey; taking a small step will be a step in the right direction towards your wellness. Are you ready? I am.

Susan Tang (she/her/hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW

Hi there, it's so lovely to connect with you! My name is Susan Tang and I am a Vietnamese-Canadian social worker, who is dedicated to creating a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment. I would like to work alongside you and your experiences, in which you are the expert of your own experiences. I want to build a relationship with you, where you can start to develop trust in yourself, you can find your voice, and most of all, you can begin to heal what has been hurt. So, let's connect and work together in this therapeutic experience!

Aïka Mathelier (she/her/hers), Registered Social Worker, MSW

You are not alone. Whether it is anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, work-life balance, having to face many of life's challenges might seem like a never-ending struggle. Everyone has the right to feel and be heard, as well as respected for who they are and what they have experienced.

Creating a safe space to support and guide you is a priority. As a licensed Social Worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, I believe in empowering people through a person-centred approach while providing tangible tools to overcome challenges.

Growth is a process, a journey, and at times, it might feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, scary... Do not hesitate to reach out for more information, or to take the next step in your journey.

Coming soon.

Yue Lyu (she/her/hers), Ph.D., Registered Psychologist

Hi, I’m a bilingual (English and Mandarin Chinese and) psychologist who helps people heal from self-doubt, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship issues, immigrant stress, and other life challenges. Working with me goes beyond just sitting and talking. We will explore how your past experiences—childhood, family and relational history, cultural backgrounds, and identities, shape how you think, feel, and behave. However, we don’t just stop at exploring the past, we will also focus on building a personalized toolbox of coping strategies that you can readily apply to your daily life. 

Additionally, we will help you understanding your current patterns and transforming them to be more adaptive ones, which will help facilitate long-term changes in your life. This healing journey will guide you towards self-discovery, fostering self- compassion, feeling rejuvenated and confidence, and reconnecting with your true self. If you are interested in starting this healing journey together, feel free to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.