Adults (22+), Identifies as Muslim, Turkish Speaking

Salih prefers not to work with perpetrators of violence, couples and families. Will work with individuals needing support with relationships.

Life is a roller-coaster journey where we occasionally feel down, depressed, anxious, and stressed. During life transitions, crises, sicknesses, and losses, we need help to feel better and relieve our suffering or distress. I offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can easily share their most vulnerable moments and work through their issues. I listen to you with all my heart, compassion, and attention and work with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.

I embrace people from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender, faith, or ethnicity, and am a massive supporter of DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion). As a former teacher and professor/researcher, I bring my life experience to my practice and am a true believer in the empowerment of my clients to make their own life decisions.

I welcome clients both in-person and online to walk along a therapeutic journey with them to bring their human potential to light to thrive for a life better.

I use an integrated approach depending on your needs and goals, commonly employing Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) techniques, specifically for anxiety, worry and depression. Narrative Therapy (NT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) are other modalities I incorporate into my care. I also specialize in trauma, grief, and bereavement as well as life transitions. I hold a Master`s degree in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy from the University of Toronto and am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). I also hold a PhD. Degree in Education. I welcome clients both in-person and online to start a therapeutic journey with you for a better life in which you will be able to live out your goals and fulfill your potential besides addressing your current concerns.

Adults (22+), Identifies as Muslim, Turkish Speaking Salih prefers not to work with perpetrators... Read More

Adults (18+)

Ala’ holds a Masters and Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy from Wilfrid Laurier University. Ala’ is currently a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and is a member of the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP). She also completed her training in the Supervised Pastoral Education (SPE) Residency Program at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton in 2019 and is a member of the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care (CASC).

Ala’ works with clients from a broad range of backgrounds and life experiences. The approach’s she uses in therapy are strength-based, trauma-informed, anti-racist, and an anti-oppressive practice approach that are client-centred.

Ala’ works with individuals with a focus on CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy). She also has training in Narrative Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Art Therapy, and Spirituality Integrated Psychotherapy. Her areas of focus include trauma & PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief & loss, mood related disorders, intercultural dynamics, refugee and newcomer mental health, identity & belonging, spirituality and more. Ala’ can provide services in both English and Arabic.

When Ala’ is not in the office you can find her working on any art project and enjoys working with various art forms, whether that be painting, sketching, sewing or working with glass.

Adults (18+) Ala’ holds a Masters and Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy from ... Read More

Adolescents (14+), Adults

Dhirjinder is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (RPQ), Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and EMDR Therapist. She uses CBT, mindfulness, ACT, SFT, exposure Therapy and MI modalities in her practice with a passion for working with individuals living with acute mental health and behavioral concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, stress management, Trauma, Anger management, Low self-esteem, OCRD, PTSD, substance and alcohol use disorder.

Dhirjinder works with a diverse population and has a vast experience of working with First Nations. She has significant trauma training and works with clients who are experiencing mental health crises related to histories of trauma. Dhirjinder can also provide EMDR to support individuals with trauma.

Dhirjinder provides services in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu

Adolescents (14+), Adults Dhirjinder is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (RPQ), Canadia... Read More

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Adolescents and Adults 14+

Valita is a dedicated Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, she specializes in providing mental health therapy to those seeking support and guidance. Valita is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards achieving personal growth and well-being. Her unwavering dedication to mental health and her clients’ well-being is the cornerstone of her therapeutic practice.

Adolescents and Adults 14+ Valita is a dedicated Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a ... Read More

Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families Clinical Lead for Couples and Families

Sarah is a Registered Psychotherapist and a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist with 15 years of clinical experience. Sarah is Qualia’s Clinical Lead for Couples and Families. Prior to working at Qualia she worked in a not for profit community based program with youth and their families focusing on mental health, addictions and family issues.

Sarah loves to work with Couples and Families around relationships issues (Communication, Conflict, Mediation, Affairs, Parenting, Etc.) using training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy.

Sarah also works with teens and adults with the following individual presenting issues: Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Issues, Anger, Insomnia, Stress, Addiction, Grief, Eating Disorders, Self Esteem, Chronic Illness/Pain, Women’s Issues and Spirituality.

Sarah meets the clinical supervision criteria as outlined by the CRPO and offers clinical supervision to students and those working towards their membership with the CRPO. Please reach out for more details regarding supervision work.

Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families Clinical Lead for Couples and Families Sarah is a Regist... Read More

Teens (13+), Adults, Seniors LGBTQ+

Madison prefers not to work with addictions, or motor vehicle accidents.

Madison is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP). She has training in CBT, DBT, and ACT modalities, trauma, and anti-oppressive frameworks and will use an eclectic approach to support clients with their individual needs. Madison graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a major in psychology and minor in religion and culture. Madison completed her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) at Yorkville University in New Brunswick. Madison has a history working with adolescents, adults, seniors, and 2SLGBTQ+ youth. Madison has experience providing support in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, self-esteem, interpersonal challenges, relationships, life transitions along with other mental health concerns. Madison has experiencing working at a VAW shelter providing support to domestic violence and sexual assault survivors including women and children. She has training in trauma and works from a trauma-informed lens with clients who are experiencing mental health crises.

Teens (13+), Adults, Seniors LGBTQ+ Madison prefers not to work with addictions, or motor vehicl... Read More

Adolescents (16+), Adults, Couples, Indigenous, LGBTQ2S+

Michelle Elliott Is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s degree, who provides CBT to a wide range of individuals, while also providing Dialectic Behavior Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. As a (half) Indigenous person herself Michelle appreciates the value of a wholistic approach to therapy recognizing that everyone is doing the best they can with the skills and resources they have available to them. She believes: “You can continue on this path you’re following now…or by making one degree of change you can create a whole new direction for yourself”. Michelle is married with three children and two dogs and loves the outdoors! Michelle is also a highland dancer and is obsessed with going to spin classes every day!

Michelle has worked in residential settings, school/educational settings, hospital settings and an Indigenous specific agency. You can expect a lot of personality and joy from Michelle while also receiving a lot of empathy and understanding. Michelle comes with a wealth of knowledge and can offer anywhere from extensive skill work with homework to a safe and comfortable space to speak freely (and everything else in between).

Adolescents (16+), Adults, Couples, Indigenous, LGBTQ2S+ Michelle Elliott Is a Registered Social... Read More

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Children (5+), Adolescents, Adults

Sarah Gross is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s degree who uses CBT and Play Therapy to treat various disorders in children and adolescents in addition to CBT for adults. She sees a range of child, youth and adult cases and utilizes a wholistic and wrap-around approach to treating various mental health disorders, and works to identify internal and external strengths with clients to enhance relationships and create positive change. She completed her Master’s of Social Work in 2012 and is currently the Clinical Lead of Child and Adolescent services at Qualia and has taught various CBT courses with our Qualia-Laurier partnership since 2015. Prior to completing her Master’s, she worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist in the hospital system for 10 years.

When working with Sarah, clients can expect an empathetic and validating environment which also challenges them to reflect and grow while learning to manage and work through their various presenting issues. She primarily uses the CBT model while also pulling in elements from different therapies to meet client needs and goals.

Sarah has extensive training and experience in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent and welcomes clients to be themselves in sessions, and speak freely about what they find helpful in their therapy process. Sarah is a strong advocate for special needs clients, and helps empower clients and caregivers to build their own advocacy skills as part of treatment, when necessary.

Sarah was born and raised in the Waterloo Region and lives in Waterloo with her husband and three kids. She is active in her community and with her family and friends, and believes that physical activity is essential in maintaining mental wellness.

Children (5+), Adolescents, Adults Sarah Gross is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s deg... Read More

Children (5+), Adolescents, Adults

Valerie Hopkins pursued post-secondary education graduating with a BA in Sociology; BSW Honours; BA in Child Social Institutions; and an MSW from the University of Western Ontario. Valerie has enjoyed working with First Nations and non-Indigenous clientele and communities. She has done one to one and group counselling with all age groups in a variety of areas including Domestic Violence; Addictions; Sexual Abuse; Historical Trauma; Court support. She especially enjoys working with children and youth. Valerie uses the medicine wheel for a holistic approach to address Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual needs.

Children (5+), Adolescents, Adults Valerie Hopkins pursued post-secondary education graduating w... Read More

Sarah graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Arts and Science specializing in Neuroscience and Psychology. Sarah is currently involved in a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology Program at the University of Lethbridge and is in the process of completing her practicum placement with Qualia Counselling Services.

Before starting at Qualia, Sarah worked at various non-profit organizations providing support to youth working toward a variety of mental health, employment, education, and transition-related goals.

Sarah strives to work from a client-centred perspective and to create a collaborative and empathetic space for all her clients. Sarah works from a CBT lens to support clients in their learning of concrete skills that they can take forward with them beyond the walls of counselling to facilitate meaningful change within their lives.

Sarah graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Arts and Science specializing in... Read More

Adults (18+), Couples, Families

Jordan has a background working with clients who are dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, grief, and relationship issues.

He has also worked a lot with older adolescents and young adults who are facing the developmental transition into adulthood.

Jordan brings a client-centered perspective to all his work. He also brings an awareness of the importance of meaning-making, spirituality, and the arts to his understanding of the healing and change process.

Jordan has done training in CBT, DBT, and EFT modalities. Jordan did his MA at Martin Luther University College (Wilfrid Laurier University).

Adults (18+), Couples, Families Jordan has a background working with clients who are dealing wit... Read More

Adolescents (14+), Adults, Couples

Julia Jackson is a Registered Social Worker with a varied background in mental health.

She has much experience and a subsequent passion for working with people experiencing acute mental health concerns. Much of this experience was gained working in a crisis setting.

Julia graduated from Laurentian University with a Bachelor’s of Social Work and then pursued her Master’s degree in the same field of study.

During her career, she has worked mainly with adolescents in mentorship and case management positions before focusing her work on crisis intervention and supportive counselling.

Julia also has experience working with Indigenous youth, specifically the Anishinaabe of the Great Lakes.

Adolescents (14+), Adults, Couples Julia Jackson is a Registered Social Worker with a varied bac... Read More

Females (15+)

Dr. Amanda Jenkins is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and is a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). She earned a PhD in Applied Social Psychology from the University of Guelph and completed her Masters of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. She has additional training in psychology from York University (MA) and the University of Waterloo (BA). She is a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) certified clinician with a specialization in women’s reproductive mental health. She has additional training in sexual violence response and anti-oppressive approaches from Wilfrid Laurier University

Amanda works with young adults and adults to help them reach their identified goals in a supportive and caring manner. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression and trauma. She has a particular interest in working with women experiencing perinatal grief, traumatic birth, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, postpartum OCD, infertility, and hormonal changes related to menopause and puberty.

Amanda uses a variety of therapeutic tools based on each client’s needs. This includes person-centered, mindfulness, strengths-based, feminist, and evidence-based techniques using CBT. Part of her approach is helping clients change negative thought patterns, learn how to practice self-compassion and situate health problems within a broader societal lens. She strives to provide a calm, safe and non-judgmental space for clients to be heard and validated. Using a compassionate and empowering approach, her goal is to support clients in their healing journeys.

Amanda enjoys being a mom, spending time with her friends and family, and binge-watching baking shows. She welcomes you to reach out and is happy to chat with you to see if there is a good fit for counselling.

Females (15+) Dr. Amanda Jenkins is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Socia... Read More

Adolescents (12+), Adults

Bridget has an abundance of experience as a seasoned clinician helping others, especially using her skills as a certified Cognitive Behaviour and Dialectical Behaviour Psychotherapist.

Bridget has a profound passion for working with priority populations, such as individuals with acute mental health concerns, those with histories of trauma, the Indigenous population, and individuals involved with the criminal justice system.

Bridget is currently the Lead Trauma Consultant at Qualia Counselling Services. She facilitates the agency’s trauma peer supervision group and provides ad hoc trauma consultations to colleagues. Bridget currently teaches CBT Level 1, CBT Level 2 and CBT for Trauma Level 2 courses at Wilfrid Laurier University. She also provides supervision to students enrolled in the CBT for Trauma program as a part of their course requirements.

Bridget has significant trauma training and is passionate about bringing the power of her post graduate training in Compassionate Inquiry to her clients and students. As a part of her acceptance into this program, Bridget was able to study directly under Dr. Gabor Maté and completed rigorous training in his approach.

Bridget is the Chair of the Families for Awareness, Change and Education (FACE) Advisory Committee at Grand River Hospital, where she works alongside the mental health and addictions leadership team by reviewing and supporting person and family centred initiatives (eg. new policies and programs), advocates for strengthened communication and collaboration with hospital staff, patients and families, and participates in the evaluation of outcomes to improve the patient and family experience.

Adolescents (12+), Adults Bridget has an abundance of experience as a seasoned clinician helping... Read More

Adolescents (16+), Adults

Ashleigh graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with her Masters of Social Work Degree. Ashleigh’s aim is to work from a client-centered approach and create a respectful, empathetic, and trauma informed space. Her past experience has involved working with children, youth and adults in the areas of addictions and mental health, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. Ashleigh relies mostly on CBT, motivational interviewing and DBT modalities.

Adolescents (16+), Adults Ashleigh graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with her Masters of... Read More

Individuals, Couples, 18+

Saria is a one of Qualia’s clinicians who prides herself on synthesizing evidence-based therapies with holistic principles. She approaches her clinical practice in a way that draws upon individual’s inherent strengths, wisdom and lived experiences.

Since 1993 her Social Work experiences have been rooted in the field of mental health wherein she has served a broad spectrum of ages, issues and capacities. Recognized as a ‘high energy’ person, Saria strives to embody the values of kindness, inclusivity and integrity and models this in the Qualia community with positivity and solution focused mentality.

As a therapist she demonstrates this in her uniquely genuine, compassionate and ‘colourful’ connections with others and also has the ability to respectfully challenge her clients. She enjoys many aspects of life and regards the times she can genuinely connect with others as one of life’s greatest gifts.

She is truly honoured to be regarded by those she serves in such a favourable light and aspires to continue to help lessen the suffering of others.

Individuals, Couples, 18+ Saria is a one of Qualia’s clinicians who prides herself on synthesizi... Read More

Adolescents (16+), Adults

Engin Sezen earned a PhD in spiritual care and psychotherapy from Martin Luther University College (Wilfrid Laurier University). His MSW is also from Wilfrid Laurier University’s faculty of social work. Currently, as an adjunct faculty Engin teaches at Wilfrid Laurier University.

As a registered social worker, Dr. Sezen’s clinical work focuses on addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief & loss, relationship issues, suicidality, separation and divorce, life-stage transitions, and domestic violence. Over the years, Dr. Sezen has worked in community mental health clinics, hospitals, correctional services, higher educational institutions, addiction centers, and various private mental health practice settings.

Engin uses a holistic approach to wellness, he collaborates with his clients to create an individualized therapeutic treatment. He is passionate about helping individuals and families to strengthen positive relationships and identify unhealthy behavioral patterns that keep them stuck in a destructive cycle. His approach is strength-based and client-centered. Engin is trained in several psychological methods, including:

• cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• solution-focused therapy (SFBT)
• narrative therapy
• acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
• spiritual and culturally sensitive care

Adolescents (16+), Adults Engin Sezen earned a PhD in spiritual care and psychotherapy from Mart... Read More

Rana works with the ages 14+ (Individual, Families, and Couples)

Individuals, Families, Couples, 14+

Rana Shami is a counsellor and Registered Social Worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and has a Master’s degree in social work. Rana received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Waterloo. Rana is a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) and the Canadian Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT) and is a registered circle of security parenting coach (COSP). Rana has extensive experience in cognitive behaviour therapy and has completed CBT certificate training at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Rana has over 10 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate the world of parenting mainly parenting children with special needs and parenting in two cultures. She understands the impact of parenting on caregiver’s mental health, couple’s relationship as well as the family dynamics. Rana’s goal is to help clients turn struggles into opportunities and new beginnings by providing culturally sensitive services that is tailored to client’s unique needs and beliefs about parenting and family values. In her practice, Rana uses a strength-based approach that is trauma informed and attachment informed and applies variety of strategies including CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, solution focused and mindfulness. Rana is diligent on providing warm and nurturing environment to help clients grow and flourish while on their journey to wellness. Counselling services are provided in English and Arabic.

Rana works with the ages 14+ (Individual, Families, and Couples) Individuals, Families, Couples,... Read More

Individuals, 14+

Narine Sookram has a passion for people and humanity, his many and ongoing ways of giving to others, his values and belief in the concept of Caritas and love for all fit perfectly with his career as a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist.

He believes that each person, regardless of their circumstances, has something to offer, he meets people where they are at, without judgement, and always encourages them to maximize their potential.

Education is something Narine values the most. For that reason, he is constantly seeking knowledge and personal growth.

Although already married with two lovely daughters, he managed to successfully complete over a dozen college /university degrees, including but not limited to: Bachelor of Social Work -University of Manitoba, Master of Social Work-Brescia University, Graduate Certificate in Career Development -Conestoga College, Associate Degree in the Social Service Worker program -Mohawk College, Bachelor of Professional Arts in Human Services -Athabasca University, Bachelor of Education in Adult Education -Brock University, Doctor of Social Work Candidate -Capella University, expected to be completed in 2024. .

Individuals, 14+ Narine Sookram has a passion for people and humanity, his many and ongoing ways... Read More

13+, couples/families

She is a certified CBT clinician by the Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavior Therapy focusing on the treatment of Anxiety and a Level 1 Certified EFT Therapist by ICEEFT. Slavka graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a major in Psychotherapy and Spiritual Care. Slavka works with adolescents and young adults with a history of trauma, eating disorders, OCD, and Borderline Personality and is experienced using Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She provides psychotherapy for adult individuals and couples experiencing psychological and relationship issues. Her expertise is in anger management, anxiety, stress control, and depression; she worked with survivors of intimate partner abuse. Slavka works with a diverse population by providing multicultural and spiritually informed counseling, including the LGBTQ+ community, aboriginal population, immigrants, inmates, and religious groups.

13+, couples/families She is a certified CBT clinician by the Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavi... Read More