Erika is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Prior to this, Erika completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Human Rights and Equity Studies. Erika is a strengths based social worker who brings a down to earth approach to her practice.
Erika has specialized experience supporting youth, young adults and families. She is comfortable working with family systems and is skilled at de-escalating high conflict and crisis situations. Erika offers a calm and safe space for individuals and families to feel supported and heard. She has demonstrated experience improving self esteem, parenting, anger, anxiety, low mood and struggles with self harm.
Erika takes an eclectic approach to therapy that includes the following modalities:
Niketha is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Bachelor of Social Work degree from York University before going on to complete her Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. Her approach to therapy is focused on facilitating client growth through an equity lens.
Niketha has spent the last 13 years identifying and promoting self growth opportunities with a diverse range of individuals and families. Her skills are strength based including advocacy, conflict resolution and anti-racism. Niketha helps clients to alleviate suffering with kindness, self determination and offering a fresh perspective in challenging situations. Niketha is accepting clients seeking support with self esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, racism and intersectionality, conflict resolution, and parenting.
Niketha has training and experience using the following modalities in her practice:
Elena is pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Wilfrid Laurier University. She has a PhD and Master of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, as well Master of Arts in Sociology of Education and Bachelor of Education from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Elena was drawn to counselling after spending over 15 years in academia. As a university professor, Elena worked on research that examined pregnancy and individuals’ adjustment to parenting, work/life balance challenges, and the mental health issues impacting young people and children. These experiences evoked her desire to help those who are in need and to pursue the art of therapy. As a mother and a teacher, she sees her commitment to care, compassion, and understanding as core values she brings to her practice. Elena is fluent in Russian and Hebrew and is a proud LGBTQ2S+ ally.
Annie is a Registered Psychotherapist who completed her Master of Arts in Counselling degree from Yorkville University. Annie is a Registered Nurse who spent 20 years working in the ICU and ER. She takes a holistic approach to helping you achieve your goals. Combining psychotherapy theories with co-active coaching principles, Annie conceptualizes a plan that is unique to you. She will help you better understand your feelings and uncover sources of conflict in your life. You will discover more about yourself, define your aspirations and values and most importantly, build skills for dealing with obstacles in the future. Her purpose is to motivate and inspire high-stressed people, so that they are supported by someone who understands a similar reality and can equip them with tools and strategies to manage their own well-being. A trustworthy relationship between the individual and the therapist is essential in any healing journey and something that Annie prioritizes.
Maria Ostapenko is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Brock University, a Master of Education from Griffith University in Australia, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Before becoming a therapist, Maria worked as a settlement language instructor supporting refugees and newcomers. Through this work, she witnessed firsthand how trauma, displacement, and major life transitions shape a person’s emotional world. She learned about the power of safety, validation, and being truly heard — insights that continue to guide her work today.
Maria supports individuals navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or lost, low mood, grief, stress, parenting and relationship challenges. She works from a trauma-informed, collaborative approach, meeting clients exactly where they are. Her focus is on helping you stabilize, feel safe, and explore what’s most present for you right now — without needing to recount your entire life story before you're ready to do so.
Maria believes well-being emerges from balance and a strong mind-body-nature connection. Her therapeutic style is compassionate, practical, and grounded. She integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Polyvagal theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Sessions may include exploring unhelpful thought patterns, uncovering the trauma themes influencing your present-day experiences. understanding and tolerating overwhelming emotions, reconnecting with the body, and clarifying values that bring direction and purpose. Many clients notice small but meaningful shifts early on, such as feeling more grounded, clear, or supported.
Maria offers in-person appointments in Ancaster and St. Catharines, as well as virtual sessions across Ontario. She speaks English, Russian, and Spanish and practices through a culturally sensitive, client-centered lens. Having migrated from the Ukraine at age nine, Maria understands firsthand the importance of honouring the unique experiences, identities, and cultural histories that shape who you are.
Thomas is a Registered Social Worker. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Social Work from Christ University in Bangalore, India. After moving to Canada as a student, Thomas completed post-graduate programs in Community and Social Service Management at Conestoga College and in Autism and Behavioural Science at Niagara College.
Thomas is a dedicated and compassionate social worker, deeply committed to creating positive change in the lives of the individuals and families he serves. With over four years of experience, Thomas has worked with individuals, couples, youth, and families in a variety of community and mental health settings, including hospitals, group homes, and addiction centers. He is skilled in several therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Crisis Intervention.
Thomas has a particular interest in working with South Asian men, individuals who have immigrated to Canada for studies and work, and those navigating the complexities of cultural identity. Having personally experienced the challenges of transitioning to a new country, he understands the unique struggles faced by immigrants and is passionate about supporting them in overcoming these obstacles.
In addition to his professional expertise, Thomas is fluent in English and Malayalam, and has the ability to communicate in Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada. His multicultural background and linguistic abilities allow him to connect with a diverse range of clients, ensuring that they feel seen, heard, and supported in their therapeutic journey.
Thomas also recognizes the importance of spirituality and cultural practices in individuals' well-being. He values the integration of cultural and spiritual aspects in therapy, which helps clients find meaning, strength, and resilience as they work through their challenges.
Born and raised in the heart of Himalayas, I bring a culturally grounded, compassionate approach to therapy. I believe there is no single path to healing—each person's journey is unique. My eclectic, trauma-informed practice is shaped by both lived experience and clinical training, and I hold space for clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions.
As a cancer survivor, mindfulness and spirituality are integral to my life and practice. I support individuals and youth using evidence-based approaches including Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT, CBT, EFFT, and Narrative Therapy, grounded in anti-oppressive and anti-racist principles. My eclectic, trauma-informed practice is shaped by over two decades of experience as a social worker in Canada and more than a decade of work with marginalized communities in the Global South. I currently work as an educator in the School of Social Work at McMaster University.
At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship—a sacred space for healing, growth, and transformation. My Approach Includes:
Areas of Support: I primarily support individuals and youth experiencing:
Neena is a Registered Social Worker. Her educational background includes a Master of Social Work degree from Windsor University, as well as a Bachelor of Social Work degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from York University. Neena has dedicated over 20 years supporting families, children, youth and individuals. Neena has extensive experience supporting victims of domestic violence as well as individuals and families who have had significant trauma in the areas of child abuse, family abuse, financial struggles, poverty, depression, anxiety, conflict and mental health challenges.
Neena also has lived and professional experience navigating the challenges and joys of parenting at all ages. The areas of additional experience in parenting include; post-partum depression, adjusting to life as a new parent, parenting teenagers/youth and parenting children with disabilities and neurodivergence.
Neena is also able to provide services within a cultural and anti-oppressive lens having experience in working with newcomers and immigrants and the challenges this journey can often bring when trying to fit in and adjust to a new country. Neena can also provide her therapy services in Punjabi.
Neena understands that reaching out for help is a big first step and she understands that it's not always easy to speak about our issues, however, she is there to offer guidance, support and trust. She wants to create a safe space for you to be able to share your feelings, thoughts and together we can try to build upon and solve the challenges you may be facing!
Neena has training and experience in the following modalities:
Erika is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Prior to this, Erika completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Human Rights and Equity Studies. Erika is a strengths based social worker who brings a down to earth approach to her practice.
Erika has specialized experience supporting youth, young adults and families. She is comfortable working with family systems and is skilled at de-escalating high conflict and crisis situations. Erika offers a calm and safe space for individuals and families to feel supported and heard. She has demonstrated experience improving self esteem, parenting, anger, anxiety, low mood and struggles with self harm.
Erika takes an eclectic approach to therapy that includes the following modalities:
Maria Ostapenko is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Brock University, a Master of Education from Griffith University in Australia, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Before becoming a therapist, Maria worked as a settlement language instructor supporting refugees and newcomers. Through this work, she witnessed firsthand how trauma, displacement, and major life transitions shape a person’s emotional world. She learned about the power of safety, validation, and being truly heard — insights that continue to guide her work today.
Maria supports individuals navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or lost, low mood, grief, stress, parenting and relationship challenges. She works from a trauma-informed, collaborative approach, meeting clients exactly where they are. Her focus is on helping you stabilize, feel safe, and explore what’s most present for you right now — without needing to recount your entire life story before you're ready to do so.
Maria believes well-being emerges from balance and a strong mind-body-nature connection. Her therapeutic style is compassionate, practical, and grounded. She integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Polyvagal theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Sessions may include exploring unhelpful thought patterns, uncovering the trauma themes influencing your present-day experiences. understanding and tolerating overwhelming emotions, reconnecting with the body, and clarifying values that bring direction and purpose. Many clients notice small but meaningful shifts early on, such as feeling more grounded, clear, or supported.
Maria offers in-person appointments in Ancaster and St. Catharines, as well as virtual sessions across Ontario. She speaks English, Russian, and Spanish and practices through a culturally sensitive, client-centered lens. Having migrated from the Ukraine at age nine, Maria understands firsthand the importance of honouring the unique experiences, identities, and cultural histories that shape who you are.
Rami Safi is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a licensed Pharmacist, bringing more than 28 years of multidisciplinary healthcare experience across Canada, West Asia, North Africa, and Europe. His practice is rooted in the belief that every individual is unique, and he works closely with clients to explore their strengths, inner resources, and capacity for healing—always in a client-directed, holistic, and culturally sensitive way.
Rami lived in several countries before making Canada his home 18 years ago and has travelled widely across West Asia, North Africa, and Europe. This broad exposure shaped his deep commitment to cultural humility, and to the understanding that human beings share similar emotional experiences, expressed differently through culture. Professionally, Rami is a pharmacist by training, holding a Bachelor of Pharmacy and a Master of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. His blended healthcare background allows him to integrate medical, psychological, holistic, and cultural perspectives when supporting clients with complex emotional needs.His therapeutic work focuses on anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, ADHD-related challenges, behavioural addictions, and cross-cultural adjustment, using CBT-informed, DBT, and ACT-based interventions to support clients in meaningful, evidence-aligned ways.
Rami provides therapy in English and various Arabic dialects, and is committed to creating a space grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect—meeting clients exactly where they are and walking alongside them as they move toward healing, clarity, and growth.
Erika is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Prior to this, Erika completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Human Rights and Equity Studies. Erika is a strengths based social worker who brings a down to earth approach to her practice.
Erika has specialized experience supporting youth, young adults and families. She is comfortable working with family systems and is skilled at de-escalating high conflict and crisis situations. Erika offers a calm and safe space for individuals and families to feel supported and heard. She has demonstrated experience improving self esteem, parenting, anger, anxiety, low mood and struggles with self harm.
Erika takes an eclectic approach to therapy that includes the following modalities:
Elena is pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Wilfrid Laurier University. She has a PhD and Master of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, as well Master of Arts in Sociology of Education and Bachelor of Education from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Elena was drawn to counselling after spending over 15 years in academia. As a university professor, Elena worked on research that examined pregnancy and individuals’ adjustment to parenting, work/life balance challenges, and the mental health issues impacting young people and children. These experiences evoked her desire to help those who are in need and to pursue the art of therapy. As a mother and a teacher, she sees her commitment to care, compassion, and understanding as core values she brings to her practice. Elena is fluent in Russian and Hebrew and is a proud LGBTQ2S+ ally.
Maria Ostapenko is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Brock University, a Master of Education from Griffith University in Australia, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Before becoming a therapist, Maria worked as a settlement language instructor supporting refugees and newcomers. Through this work, she witnessed firsthand how trauma, displacement, and major life transitions shape a person’s emotional world. She learned about the power of safety, validation, and being truly heard — insights that continue to guide her work today.
Maria supports individuals navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or lost, low mood, grief, stress, parenting and relationship challenges. She works from a trauma-informed, collaborative approach, meeting clients exactly where they are. Her focus is on helping you stabilize, feel safe, and explore what’s most present for you right now — without needing to recount your entire life story before you're ready to do so.
Maria believes well-being emerges from balance and a strong mind-body-nature connection. Her therapeutic style is compassionate, practical, and grounded. She integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Polyvagal theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Sessions may include exploring unhelpful thought patterns, uncovering the trauma themes influencing your present-day experiences. understanding and tolerating overwhelming emotions, reconnecting with the body, and clarifying values that bring direction and purpose. Many clients notice small but meaningful shifts early on, such as feeling more grounded, clear, or supported.
Maria offers in-person appointments in Ancaster and St. Catharines, as well as virtual sessions across Ontario. She speaks English, Russian, and Spanish and practices through a culturally sensitive, client-centered lens. Having migrated from the Ukraine at age nine, Maria understands firsthand the importance of honouring the unique experiences, identities, and cultural histories that shape who you are.
Erika is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Prior to this, Erika completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Human Rights and Equity Studies. Erika is a strengths based social worker who brings a down to earth approach to her practice.
Erika has specialized experience supporting youth, young adults and families. She is comfortable working with family systems and is skilled at de-escalating high conflict and crisis situations. Erika offers a calm and safe space for individuals and families to feel supported and heard. She has demonstrated experience improving self esteem, parenting, anger, anxiety, low mood and struggles with self harm.
Erika takes an eclectic approach to therapy that includes the following modalities:
Erika is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Prior to this, Erika completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Human Rights and Equity Studies. Erika is a strengths based social worker who brings a down to earth approach to her practice.
Erika has specialized experience supporting youth, young adults and families. She is comfortable working with family systems and is skilled at de-escalating high conflict and crisis situations. Erika offers a calm and safe space for individuals and families to feel supported and heard. She has demonstrated experience improving self esteem, parenting, anger, anxiety, low mood and struggles with self harm.
Erika takes an eclectic approach to therapy that includes the following modalities:
Maria Ostapenko is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Brock University, a Master of Education from Griffith University in Australia, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Before becoming a therapist, Maria worked as a settlement language instructor supporting refugees and newcomers. Through this work, she witnessed firsthand how trauma, displacement, and major life transitions shape a person’s emotional world. She learned about the power of safety, validation, and being truly heard — insights that continue to guide her work today.
Maria supports individuals navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or lost, low mood, grief, stress, parenting and relationship challenges. She works from a trauma-informed, collaborative approach, meeting clients exactly where they are. Her focus is on helping you stabilize, feel safe, and explore what’s most present for you right now — without needing to recount your entire life story before you're ready to do so.
Maria believes well-being emerges from balance and a strong mind-body-nature connection. Her therapeutic style is compassionate, practical, and grounded. She integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Polyvagal theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Sessions may include exploring unhelpful thought patterns, uncovering the trauma themes influencing your present-day experiences. understanding and tolerating overwhelming emotions, reconnecting with the body, and clarifying values that bring direction and purpose. Many clients notice small but meaningful shifts early on, such as feeling more grounded, clear, or supported.
Maria offers in-person appointments in Ancaster and St. Catharines, as well as virtual sessions across Ontario. She speaks English, Russian, and Spanish and practices through a culturally sensitive, client-centered lens. Having migrated from the Ukraine at age nine, Maria understands firsthand the importance of honouring the unique experiences, identities, and cultural histories that shape who you are.
Annie is a Registered Psychotherapist who completed her Master of Arts in Counselling degree from Yorkville University. Annie is a Registered Nurse who spent 20 years working in the ICU and ER. She takes a holistic approach to helping you achieve your goals. Combining psychotherapy theories with co-active coaching principles, Annie conceptualizes a plan that is unique to you. She will help you better understand your feelings and uncover sources of conflict in your life. You will discover more about yourself, define your aspirations and values and most importantly, build skills for dealing with obstacles in the future. Her purpose is to motivate and inspire high-stressed people, so that they are supported by someone who understands a similar reality and can equip them with tools and strategies to manage their own well-being. A trustworthy relationship between the individual and the therapist is essential in any healing journey and something that Annie prioritizes.
Elena is pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Wilfrid Laurier University. She has a PhD and Master of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, as well Master of Arts in Sociology of Education and Bachelor of Education from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Elena was drawn to counselling after spending over 15 years in academia. As a university professor, Elena worked on research that examined pregnancy and individuals’ adjustment to parenting, work/life balance challenges, and the mental health issues impacting young people and children. These experiences evoked her desire to help those who are in need and to pursue the art of therapy. As a mother and a teacher, she sees her commitment to care, compassion, and understanding as core values she brings to her practice. Elena is fluent in Russian and Hebrew and is a proud LGBTQ2S+ ally.
Thomas is a Registered Social Worker. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Social Work from Christ University in Bangalore, India. After moving to Canada as a student, Thomas completed post-graduate programs in Community and Social Service Management at Conestoga College and in Autism and Behavioural Science at Niagara College.
Thomas is a dedicated and compassionate social worker, deeply committed to creating positive change in the lives of the individuals and families he serves. With over four years of experience, Thomas has worked with individuals, couples, youth, and families in a variety of community and mental health settings, including hospitals, group homes, and addiction centers. He is skilled in several therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Crisis Intervention.
Thomas has a particular interest in working with South Asian men, individuals who have immigrated to Canada for studies and work, and those navigating the complexities of cultural identity. Having personally experienced the challenges of transitioning to a new country, he understands the unique struggles faced by immigrants and is passionate about supporting them in overcoming these obstacles.
In addition to his professional expertise, Thomas is fluent in English and Malayalam, and has the ability to communicate in Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada. His multicultural background and linguistic abilities allow him to connect with a diverse range of clients, ensuring that they feel seen, heard, and supported in their therapeutic journey.
Thomas also recognizes the importance of spirituality and cultural practices in individuals' well-being. He values the integration of cultural and spiritual aspects in therapy, which helps clients find meaning, strength, and resilience as they work through their challenges.
Born and raised in the heart of Himalayas, I bring a culturally grounded, compassionate approach to therapy. I believe there is no single path to healing—each person's journey is unique. My eclectic, trauma-informed practice is shaped by both lived experience and clinical training, and I hold space for clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and life transitions.
As a cancer survivor, mindfulness and spirituality are integral to my life and practice. I support individuals and youth using evidence-based approaches including Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT, CBT, EFFT, and Narrative Therapy, grounded in anti-oppressive and anti-racist principles. My eclectic, trauma-informed practice is shaped by over two decades of experience as a social worker in Canada and more than a decade of work with marginalized communities in the Global South. I currently work as an educator in the School of Social Work at McMaster University.
At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship—a sacred space for healing, growth, and transformation. My Approach Includes:
Areas of Support: I primarily support individuals and youth experiencing:
Neena is a Registered Social Worker. Her educational background includes a Master of Social Work degree from Windsor University, as well as a Bachelor of Social Work degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from York University. Neena has dedicated over 20 years supporting families, children, youth and individuals. Neena has extensive experience supporting victims of domestic violence as well as individuals and families who have had significant trauma in the areas of child abuse, family abuse, financial struggles, poverty, depression, anxiety, conflict and mental health challenges.
Neena also has lived and professional experience navigating the challenges and joys of parenting at all ages. The areas of additional experience in parenting include; post-partum depression, adjusting to life as a new parent, parenting teenagers/youth and parenting children with disabilities and neurodivergence.
Neena is also able to provide services within a cultural and anti-oppressive lens having experience in working with newcomers and immigrants and the challenges this journey can often bring when trying to fit in and adjust to a new country. Neena can also provide her therapy services in Punjabi.
Neena understands that reaching out for help is a big first step and she understands that it's not always easy to speak about our issues, however, she is there to offer guidance, support and trust. She wants to create a safe space for you to be able to share your feelings, thoughts and together we can try to build upon and solve the challenges you may be facing!
Neena has training and experience in the following modalities:
Niketha is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Bachelor of Social Work degree from York University before going on to complete her Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. Her approach to therapy is focused on facilitating client growth through an equity lens.
Niketha has spent the last 13 years identifying and promoting self growth opportunities with a diverse range of individuals and families. Her skills are strength based including advocacy, conflict resolution and anti-racism. Niketha helps clients to alleviate suffering with kindness, self determination and offering a fresh perspective in challenging situations. Niketha is accepting clients seeking support with self esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, racism and intersectionality, conflict resolution, and parenting.
Niketha has training and experience using the following modalities in her practice:
Annie is a Registered Psychotherapist who completed her Master of Arts in Counselling degree from Yorkville University. Annie is a Registered Nurse who spent 20 years working in the ICU and ER. She takes a holistic approach to helping you achieve your goals. Combining psychotherapy theories with co-active coaching principles, Annie conceptualizes a plan that is unique to you. She will help you better understand your feelings and uncover sources of conflict in your life. You will discover more about yourself, define your aspirations and values and most importantly, build skills for dealing with obstacles in the future. Her purpose is to motivate and inspire high-stressed people, so that they are supported by someone who understands a similar reality and can equip them with tools and strategies to manage their own well-being. A trustworthy relationship between the individual and the therapist is essential in any healing journey and something that Annie prioritizes.
148 1/2 Welland Avenue, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2R 2N6
5679 Main Street, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2G 5Z3
70 Seventh Street, Welland, Ontario, L3B 5B7
203-1038 Garner Road West, Ancaster, Ontario, L9G 3K9
136 Gilmore Rd, Fort Erie, ON L2A 2M2, Canada
534 Brant St, Burlington, ON L7R 2G8, Canada