Gulin Aydin
Hello, my name is Gulin Aydin. I am a Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, who specializes in EMDR trauma and PTSD therapy. In fact, I am not just a practitioner of this technique but also a teacher of it; I serve as an EMDR consultant to fellow therapists. Based in Waterloo, I have used EMDR in my work as a Success Coach to improve the performance of professionals in various fields. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from Wilfred Laurier University that is complemented with advanced EMDR Training, Part I, received at Holyoke Medical Center in Boston, MA and EMDR Training, Part II, received at EMDAR HAP, Chicago, IL.
As a holistic Trauma and EMDR Therapist and Success Coach, my goal is to help you uncover true potential by improving your confidence and instilling a higher level of self-awareness. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth the long-standing behavioural patterns and negative perceptions that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I want to provide you with the tools to find success and happiness, on your terms.
If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you are just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I’m here.
Experience
My background includes more than a decade of experience in various clinical and counselling settings as a Psychotherapist. I will bring the experience I have accumulated from psychotherapy sessions and workshops with hundreds of diverse clients and patients from over 40 countries. My primary areas of expertise are as follows: childhood trauma, sexual abuse, war trauma, psychosomatic diseases, chronic pain, depression and anxiety treatment
I worked in the Waterloo Region Nurse Practitioner Clinic and Woodstock Area Community Health Centre and Individual, family and couples counsellor at Carizon Family and Community Services and Lutherwood Family Counselling. I also have experience as an Addiction Counselor, working with the Addiction Services Program of Thames Valley (ADSTV).
Education
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Master of Social Work, Wilfred Laurier Univeristy
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EMDR Training, Part I, Holyoke Medical Centre, Boston, MA
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EMDR Training, Part II, EMDR HAP, Chicago, IL
Orientation and Modalities
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EMDR
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Brain Wise
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Eclectic
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Humanistic
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Wholistic
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Energy Psychology
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Positive Psychology
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Existential
Professional Associations
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Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
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EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program, HAP
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Alumni Association: Wilfrid Laurier University
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Alumni Association: Conestoga College
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Alumni Association: METU
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International Society for Mental Health Online
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Education
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EMDR Part I, Holyoke Medical Center, Boston, MA
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EMDR Part II, EMDR HAP, Chicago, IL
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Advanced Individual, Family and Group Therapies, Wilfrid Laurier University
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Marriage and Couple Therapy, Wilfrid Laurier University
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Play Therapy and Art Therapy, Wilfrid Laurier University
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Trauma Training, Waterloo Region Social Services
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Suicide Intervention and Prevention, Lutherwood Family Counselling Services
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CAFAS Training, Lutherwood Family Counselling Services
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Trauma and Attachment, Lutherwood Family Counselling Services
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Sir Richard Bowlby, Attachment, Wilfrid Laurier University
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Single Session Therapy Training, Lutherwood Family Counselling Services
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Depression as a Chronic Disease, Science of Medicine, McMaster University
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Bipolar Disorder, Science of Medicine, McMaster University
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Frank Kakarelis
EMDR Trained Psychotherapist
Hey there, I'm Frank Kakarelis. I've walked a journey that started with an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology and Health Science from York University in 2015, and then ventured into the world of mental health with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) from Yorkville University. With over a decade of experience as a kinesiologist, I've come to understand how deeply our emotional states can influence our physical health and recovery. That's what led me to transition into psychotherapy.
As a therapist, I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, a powerful tool for healing trauma. I'm also trained in Existential Therapy, Jungian Counselling, and other evidence-based mental health approaches. My goal is to see you as a whole person, understand what motivates you, and walk with you on your path to healing.
Growing up in a low-income area of Toronto, I witnessed firsthand the impacts of drugs, violence, and mental health struggles. These experiences shaped my approach to therapy—compassionate, respectful, and nonjudgmental. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, I'm here to support you.
I've worked with both adults and youth, addressing a range of mental health issues. I bring my knowledge of the brain and nervous system into my practice, which helps me specialize in trauma and other mental health challenges. I'm a member in good standing with the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and a certified Metriks Functional Ability/Capacity Evaluator and Physical/Job Demands Assessor.
At the end of the day, you are the expert of your world. I'm here to listen, learn from you, and support you in whatever way feels right. It's a brave step to reach out for help, and together, we'll explore what needs to happen for you to feel better.
Mahnaz Aminzadeh
EMDR Trained Psychotherapist
My name is Mahnaz, and I have over 20 years of extended experience in providing therapy, training and consults in the area of mental health. I am passionate about counselling and healing because I believe that there are solutions to life's challenges and that healing is possible.
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I approach therapy with a deep respect for each individual's strengths and struggles, employing a trauma-informed lens to facilitate healing from painful life experiences. My vision is to help individuals develop a "new normal" that fosters greater clarity, strength, purpose, and peace. I view psychotherapy as a transformative process that offers individuals an opportunity to delve into the stories of their lives and engage in the hard work of healing in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I believe through this process, individuals can gain a better understanding of themselves, heal from past wounds, develop positive coping strategies, improve relationships, clarify values and goals, and experience post-traumatic growth.
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Specializing in trauma, grief and loss, my therapeutic approach encompasses a diverse range of issues, including relationship challenges, parenting issues at all stages of life, anxiety, panic, depression, living with mental illness, codependency, maladaptive relationship patterns, separation and divorce, stress, work/life balance, workplace challenges, spiritual exploration, change, parenting issues, and life-stage challenges. I integrate various evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), Trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Attachment based therapy, Vicarious Trauma Response, and Mindfulness approaches to empower clients with improved coping and life skills. I believe in a caring and non-judgmental environment, integrating elements of mindfulness, self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-development into my practice.
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With a deep commitment to cultural diversity and inclusivity, I possess multilingual proficiencies in English and Farsi. I have gained extensive experience in working with ethnically diverse groups and newcomers, recognizing and addressing the unique challenges related to dysfunctional relationships, gender, culture, sexual orientation, and race.
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I hold a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario. I am a proud member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and actively engages in ongoing professional development to enhance my knowledge and skills in the field. My 200 plus professional development certificates and trainings include, but are not limited to: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma Informed Approach at the organizational level; De-Escalating potentially violent Situations; Therapy in treatment of PTSD; Motivational Interviewing; Couple Therapy, Group Therapy, Clinical Supervision ; Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder &Developmental Trauma; Impact of Trauma on Children; Maternal Mental Health; Infant and Child Mental Health ; Conflict Resolution and Mediation techniques; Addictions and Mental illness: Working with Co-Occurring Disorders; The Hungry Ghost: A biopsychosocial Perspective on Addiction from Heroin to Workaholism; Cultural interpretation to work; Mental Health & Refugees; Adult Attachment Interview approach, Play therapy; CBT; RUCS; Parents in Parenting Education (PIPE), Effective and powerful communication skills: Effective goal settings; Collaborating services; Community interventions; Violence prevention strategies; Counselling and the law; Attachment theory; Ault education and learning skills, Engaging Traumatized clients who avoid attachment, closeness, and painful feelings; Finding a fit: Family Realities and service Responses; CAFAS, Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale; Giving and Receiving Feedback; The bridges out of Poverty; Workplace Harassment Policies and Procedures, Workplace Violence Policies and Procedures, Disaster Preparedness Plan; Children who witnessed domestic violence workshop; Understanding Domestic Violence within Diverse Populations; Human Trafficking; Right from the Start; Caring for Pregnant Refugees and Immigrants; …
Jennifer Maxwell
EMDR Trained Psychotherapist
With years of experience in the field of psychotherapy and counseling, I bring a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and understanding to our sessions. My approach is rooted in the belief that every individual's journey is unique, and I am here to walk alongside you as you explore your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations.
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I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of meaningful change. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative. Together, we will uncover the underlying causes of your challenges and work towards fostering self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment. I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, tailoring each session to meet your specific needs and goals.
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Compassionate Guidance: I am here to listen, understand, and support you without judgment. Your well-being is my top priority.
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Personalized Approach: Your journey is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your individual needs, goals, and preferences.
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Safe and Confidential: Our sessions provide a confidential and nurturing space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
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Empowerment and Transformation: Together, we will work towards uncovering your innate strengths, fostering growth, and achieving lasting change.
Meral Sen
EMDR Trained Psychotherapist
As an intern registered counsellor with EMDR training, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences to navigate life's challenges.
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My approach is deeply client-centered, which means I adapt my techniques to suit your unique needs. I firmly believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and collaboration in the therapeutic process. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or any other life challenges, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. Drawing from my experience as a teacher, I bring patience, understanding, and a knack for clear communication to my counselling practice. I understand the importance of creating a supportive and empowering environment for growth and change.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapeutic approach that can be highly effective in treating trauma and other mental health issues. I adhere to the ethical guidelines set forth by the counselling profession and am committed to providing confidential and non-judgmental care.