Accepting New Clients

Trauma is not what happens to you; it is what happens inside you as a result of what happened to you.”— Gabor Maté

Who I Help

I support individuals 16 plus and couples navigating the complexities of trauma, anxiety, depression, and high pressure stress. My practice is deeply focused on helping those experiencing family conflict, fertility challenges, grief, and self esteem struggles, as well as those facing significant relationship difficulties. I have dedicated a large portion of my 17 year career to supporting survivors of gender based and sexual violence, providing a specialized and affirming space for healing. Whether you are a couple struggling with relational disconnection or an individual navigating the lasting impact of traumatic experiences, I help you move through emotional overwhelm toward a place of stability and growth in Mississauga.

How I Help

I offer trauma informed therapy that is carefully tailored to each client’s unique story and personal goals. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the essential work of creating emotional safety. Together, we work to process difficult experiences and build the resilience needed to strengthen your relationships. I integrate a diverse range of evidence based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy EFT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy MBCT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy SFBT, narrative therapy, person centred care, Attachment Based Family Therapy ABFT, trauma focused care, self compassion based therapy, psychodynamic insights, and strength based therapy. By blending these approaches, I help you develop practical tools for coping and self understanding, bridging the gap between understanding your past and taking meaningful action in your present life.

What Makes My Practice Different?

What differentiates my practice is a deep commitment to cultural humility, authenticity, and an unwavering dedication to creating a space where every client feels emotionally safe, genuinely respected, and fully seen. I bring a focused dedication to trauma, gender based violence, and sexual violence recovery that is at the core of my work.

I understand that seeking therapy, especially for trauma, takes immense courage, and I honour that courage in every session. Whether you are navigating the lasting impact of a traumatic event, working through relational conflict, or facing a profound life transition, I tailor my approach to your unique story, pace, and healing goals.

My practice is grounded in the belief that healing is not about fixing what is broken: it is about reconnecting with the resilience, wisdom, and capacity for growth that already lives within you. I am here to walk alongside you on that journey with presence, compassion, and care.

Professional Background

I am a Registered Social Worker RSW in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers OCSWSSW. I hold a Master of Social Work MSW and bring over 17 years of extensive experience working with individuals and couples across diverse clinical and community settings. My professional background spans complex trauma, relational challenges, gender based violence recovery, and significant life transitions. I provide in person therapy at Inner Wellness Psychotherapy in Mississauga and offer virtual therapy across Ontario, making compassionate and accessible care available wherever you are.

Your Partner in Safety, Healing, Growth, and Balance.

Accepting New Clients Trauma is not what happens to you; it is what happens inside you as a res... Read More

Accepting New Clients

Offering virtual and in-person appointments

Who I Help

I support men, youth, athletes, and professionals who want to strengthen their mental health, improve emotional resilience, and gain clarity during challenging life transitions. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, trauma, anger, burnout, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and workplace stress.

I also work with athletes and high-performing professionals who want to improve mental performance, manage pressure, and develop stronger emotional regulation skills. My work includes supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or gender-based violence, providing trauma-informed therapy in a safe and respectful environment.

I offer in-person therapy in Mississauga and virtual therapy across Ontario, making counselling accessible for clients seeking professional mental health support from the comfort of their home.

How I Help

My approach combines psychotherapy with mental performance coaching to help clients build both emotional wellbeing and practical life skills. As a therapist in Mississauga, I use evidence-based therapies to help clients understand patterns in their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours while developing strategies to manage stress, improve relationships, and increase confidence.

My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I also incorporate Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, narrative therapy, attachment-based approaches, and person-centred therapy to create an individualized treatment plan for each client.

Through trauma-informed care and strength-based therapy, I help clients develop emotional regulation skills, improve self-awareness, and build resilience. Therapy may include strategies for stress management, confidence building, habit development, communication skills, and mental performance training for sports, work, and everyday life.

What Makes My Practice Different?

My practice combines psychotherapy with mental performance coaching, allowing clients to work not only on emotional healing but also on developing practical skills for success in everyday life. My background as a competitive athlete gives me a unique understanding of high-pressure environments and the mental challenges that can arise in sports, careers, and personal development.

I take a collaborative and culturally responsive approach to therapy, creating a supportive and non-judgmental space where clients feel safe exploring difficult emotions and experiences. My work is grounded in trauma-informed care and focuses on helping clients develop practical tools they can apply outside of therapy.

I have experience working with diverse populations, including youth and caregivers affected by human trafficking, individuals with high-functioning autism, clients living with chronic pain, and men navigating issues related to identity, confidence, relationships, and life transitions. My goal is to help clients develop insight, emotional resilience, and the practical skills needed to move forward with clarity and purpose.

Professional Background

Jose Aniekwe is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). He holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) from Yorkville University and a postgraduate degree in Business Administration.

Jose’s professional background includes experience in competitive athletics, business leadership, and multicultural integration, which informs his ability to support clients navigating high-pressure environments, workplace challenges, and cultural identity transitions. His diverse professional experiences allow him to bring a practical and culturally informed perspective to psychotherapy.

He provides in-person counselling at Inner Wellness Psychotherapy in Mississauga and virtual therapy across Ontario. Jose works with clients seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, stress management, and relationship challenges while helping them build resilience, emotional insight, and mental performance skills.

Jose’s work focuses on helping clients develop clarity, balance, and emotional strength through therapy that integrates evidence-based psychological approaches with practical strategies for growth and long-term wellbeing.

Your Partner in Safety, Healing, Growth, and Balance.

Accepting New Clients Offering virtual and in-person appointments Who I Help I support men, yo... Read More

Accepting New Clients

Offering virtual and in-person appointments

Who I Help

I work with children (ages 4+), teens, adults, couples, and families who are navigating emotional, behavioural, and relationship challenges. As a Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, I support clients experiencing concerns such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, emotional regulation difficulties, and relationship conflict. I have experience working with children and youth with developmental differences, autism spectrum disorder, mild intellectual disabilities, and oppositional behaviours.

I also work with individuals seeking support for trauma recovery, stress, and life transitions. I am passionate about providing LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and creating a safe, inclusive space where clients feel supported as they explore their experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

How I Help

My therapeutic approach is person-centred, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe that every individual is unique and that therapy should be tailored to each person’s needs, goals, and life experiences. As an EMDR therapist in Mississauga, I help clients process traumatic or distressing experiences and reduce the emotional impact of past events so they can move forward with greater confidence and resilience.

I integrate evidence-based therapeutic approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Polyvagal Theory-informed therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and solution-focused therapy. These approaches help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and physical responses, while developing practical coping strategies for everyday life. My work also includes ADHD-informed therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, helping clients improve focus, emotional regulation, and self-awareness.

Together, we focus on realistic goal setting, building resilience, and developing tools that support long-term emotional well-being and healthier relationships.

What Makes My Practice Different?

What sets my practice apart is my integrative and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I combine traditional psychotherapy techniques with nervous system–focused approaches that help clients understand how trauma and stress affect both the mind and body. By addressing both emotional and physiological responses, therapy can support deeper and more sustainable healing.

My professional experience working in hospital, legal, and educational settings allows me to support a diverse range of clients, including children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am especially passionate about working with children and adolescents, individuals with ADHD, couples navigating relationship challenges, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I strive to create a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients feel safe to explore challenges and work toward meaningful change.

Professional Background

Sherice Annis is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Social Work from York University. Sherice also holds a Child and Youth Worker Diploma from George Brown College.

Sherice completed her practicum in the Family Division at Downtown Legal Services, a non-profit legal clinic that provides services to individuals and families in the community. She has worked in a variety of professional settings including SickKids Hospital’s Substance Use Day Treatment Program, where she supported youth using a harm-reduction approach while implementing therapeutic approaches such as person-centred therapy, solution-focused therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

She has also worked with the Toronto District School Board, supporting children with developmental disabilities, mild intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder. Sherice is trained and certified in EMDR therapy, certified in Polyvagal Theory-informed therapy, and is an ADHD-certified therapist working with children, adolescents, and adults.

Sherice is committed to helping clients develop resilience, gain deeper self-understanding, and begin a meaningful journey of healing and personal growth.

Your Partner in Safety, Healing, Growth, and Balance.

Accepting New Clients Offering virtual and in-person appointments Who I Help I work with child... Read More

Accepting New Clients

Offering Bilingual therapy services in French & English: virtual and in-person appointments

Types of Therapy

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Strengths-Based Approach and Narrative Therapy.

Area of Specialities

Anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, emotional regulation, life transitions (immigration, grief), stress/burnout, relational issues, intolerance of uncertainty, school stressors, work stressors, pet bereavement, post-adoption, post-partum, and family conflict.

Client Focus

Adults, Teens, Tweens and Children under 11

Languages

Professional Background

Greetings,

Lianne is a passionate and dedicated therapist with more than 18 years of academic and professional experience. Fluent in both English and French, she offers therapy in two languages, breaking down barriers and building meaningful connections with clients from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Lianne holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) from Yorkville University. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Thomas University, complemented by a minor in Sociology, and continued with a Social Service Worker diploma (Honours) from Sheridan College. Lianne has honed her expertise in social justice, mental health, and advocacy, gaining invaluable experience that enriches her work in psychotherapy.

Her multilingual abilities, combined with her extensive background in mental health, make Lianne a truly unique and empathetic therapist who can connect with clients on a deeper level, empowering them to heal, grow, and thrive.

Philosophy of Practice

What Sets Me Apart?

Recognizing that a “one size fits all” approach does not apply to everyone, I apply a myriad of therapeutic approaches including Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Strengths-Based Approach and Narrative Therapy.

As a culturally sensitive, compassionate, and affirming mental health professional, I have had the privilege of working with diverse communities, fostering inclusive and empathic care. My experience spans over a number of years, with a focus on gender-based violence (intimate partner violence, sexual violence and family violence), mood disorders (depression and anxiety), grief and loss, coping with life-altering illnesses, the effects of compassion fatigue and burnout and academic stress. I have worked with and provide an inclusive and welcoming environment to individuals from various cultural identities, including persons with new or precarious newcomer status, members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community and persons who identify as male, female, non-binary, trans and gender questioning.

My approach is rooted in cultural humility, empathy and a deep understanding of the complex intersection that shape individual experiences and my expertise lies in creating a space where individuals can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings. This includes challenging and reframing harmful gender stereotypes and actively promoting healthy masculinity.

I offer specialized and culturally sensitive support to clients with the intention to create a safe and empowering therapeutic environment that honours the diversity and strength of all clients and I’m committed to co-create a personalized and effective treatment plan that honour the unique needs and resilience of each individual. I’m passionate about advocating for social justice and promoting inclusive and equitable practices in mental health care to ensure that all individuals can thrive and live authentically. I place the client as the expert and assist them in navigating the path to reach their specific goals as they relate to healing, personal growth, resiliency and introspection.

Your Partner in Healing, Growth, and Balance.

Salutations,

Lianne est une thérapeute passionnée et dévouée avec plus de 18 ans d’expérience académique et professionnelle. Parlant couramment l’anglais et le français, elle offre une thérapie en deux langues, brisant les barrières et établissant des liens significatifs avec des clients d’horizons linguistiques et culturels divers.

Lianne est titulaire d’une maîtrise ès arts en psychologie du counseling (MACP) de l’Université Yorkville. Son parcours académique a commencé par un baccalauréat ès arts en psychologie de l’Université St. Thomas, complété par une mineure en sociologie, et s’est poursuivi par un diplôme de travailleuse sociale (avec distinction) du Sheridan College. Lianne a perfectionné son expertise en justice sociale, en santé mentale et en défense des droits, acquérant une expérience inestimable qui enrichit son travail en psychothérapie.

Ses capacités multilingues, combinées à sa vaste expérience en santé mentale, font de Lianne une thérapeute vraiment unique et empathique, capable de se connecter avec les clients à un niveau plus profond, leur permettant de guérir, de grandir et de s’épanouir.

Philosophie de la pratique

Qu’est-ce qui me distingue ?

Reconnaissant qu’une approche « universelle » ne s’applique pas à tout le monde, j’applique une myriade d’approches thérapeutiques, notamment la thérapie brève axée sur les solutions, la thérapie cognitive basée sur la pleine conscience, la thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC), la thérapie comportementale dialectique (TCD), l’approche basée sur les forces et la thérapie narrative.

En tant que professionnel de la santé mentale sensible à la culture, compatissant et affirmatif, j’ai eu le privilège de travailler avec diverses communautés, favorisant des soins inclusifs et empathiques. Mon expérience s’étend sur plusieurs années, en mettant l’accent sur la violence sexiste (violence conjugale, violence sexuelle et violence familiale), les troubles de l’humeur (dépression et anxiété), le deuil et la perte, la gestion des maladies qui changent la vie, les effets de la fatigue de compassion et de l’épuisement professionnel et le stress scolaire. J’ai travaillé avec des personnes de diverses identités culturelles et leur ai offert un environnement inclusif et accueillant, notamment des personnes ayant un

statut de nouvel arrivant ou de nouvel arrivant précaire, des membres de la communauté 2SLGBTQI+ et des personnes qui s’identifient comme hommes, femmes, non binaires, trans et en questionnement de genre.

Mon approche est enracinée dans l’humilité culturelle, l’empathie et une compréhension profonde de l’intersection complexe qui façonne les expériences individuelles et mon expertise réside dans la création d’un espace où les individus peuvent se sentir à l’aise pour explorer leurs pensées et leurs sentiments. Cela comprend la remise en question et le recadrage des stéréotypes de genre néfastes et la promotion active d’une masculinité saine.

J’offre un soutien spécialisé et culturellement sensible aux clients avec l’intention de créer un environnement thérapeutique sécuritaire et stimulant qui honore la diversité et la force de tous les clients et je m’engage à co-créer un plan de traitement personnalisé et efficace qui honore les besoins uniques et la résilience de chaque individu. Je suis passionné par la défense de la justice sociale et la promotion de pratiques inclusives et équitables dans les soins de santé mentale pour garantir que tous les individus puissent s’épanouir et vivre de manière authentique. Je place le client en tant qu’expert et l’aide à naviguer sur le chemin pour atteindre ses objectifs spécifiques en matière de guérison, de croissance personnelle, de résilience et d’introspection.

Votre partenaire pour la guérison, la croissance et l’équilibre.

Accepting New Clients Offering Bilingual therapy services in French & English: virtual and i... Read More

Accepting New Clients

Offering virtual and in-person appointments

Types of Therapy

Christian Counselling, Afrocentric Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, (SFBT), Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Schema Therapy, Person-Centered, Somatic Experiencing Therapy, Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Gottman Method, Trauma Focused, Self-Compassion-Based Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Strength Based, and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).

Area of Specialities

Anxiety, faith issues, sexual abuse, addiction, infidelity and trust, identity issues, medical anxiety, sexual intimacy, emetophobia, medical health anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, trauma, self-esteem, pet bereavement, emotional regulation, life transitions (immigration, grief), stress/burnout, relational issues, intolerance of uncertainty, school stressors, work stressors, pet bereavement, post-adoption, post-partum, family conflict, performance anxiety, gambling issues, depression, co-dependency and self-harm.

Client Focus Couples, Families, adults, teens, tweens and children under 11

Languages English, Tiv & pidgin

Professional Background

Greetings

Kayla Ortese integrates academic excellence with clinical proficiency to guide individuals towards healing, growth, and balance. With a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, Canada, she has a deep understanding of psychological principles, therapeutic techniques, and behavioral interventions. Additionally, her Postgraduate Diplomas in Applied Behavior Analysis from Humber College, Canada, and in Education from the National Teachers Institute, Abuja, Nigeria, enhance her ability to address various mental health issues and facilitate meaningful change. Completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria, has fortified her foundation in supporting individuals through their therapeutic journey.

Philosophy of Practice

In resonance with Freud, I believe that therapy extends “Beyond the Couch,” embracing a holistic journey that incorporates mind, body, and spirit. I perceive life’s trials as catalysts for personal evolution, acknowledging the profound beauty that can emerge amidst adversity. My curiosity about the complexities of the human experience informs my therapeutic approach, drawing inspiration from the natural cycles observed in the world around us, such as the metamorphosis of a butterfly and the growth of a flower.

What Sets Me Apart?

What sets me apart is my integration of diverse evidence-based practices into my therapy approach. I draw from trauma informed care practices, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy (NT), Schema Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Self-Compassion Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). My aim is to cultivate a culturally sensitive atmosphere where I honor and respect each client’s lived experiences and beliefs. Grounded in proven methods, my approach ensures effectiveness in addressing your specific challenges.

I believe a journey of a thousand miles starts with an intention before a step. With this ethos, I adopt an intentional therapeutic stance, collaboratively engaging with you to cultivate awareness of your journey’s processes and progress. I view the human journey as a series of seasons, each with its unique phases of growth, pruning, metamorphosis, and blooming.

Transformative Journey

In therapy, I collaborate with clients to navigate these seasons, supporting their path toward inner wellness, growth, transformation, and resilience. My profound insight enables me to guide clients through their transformative processes, fostering empowerment and self-discovery along their unique paths to healing, growth, and balance. This journey led me to establish “Inner Wellness Psychotherapy,” where I collaboratively work with clients facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, emotional regulation, life transitions, stress/burnout, gender issues, ADHD, autism, relational dynamics, PTSD, medical health anxiety, emotional trauma, intolerance of uncertainty, school, and work-related stressors, and more.

Empowerment and Discovery

With a client-centered and holistic approach, I strive to cultivate a safe and empathetic therapeutic environment, encouraging clients to embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, healing, personal growth, and balance. I support clients as they navigate life’s complexities, providing tools to empower them to achieve inner harmony and well-being. Through my practice, I aim to provide a nurturing space for clients to explore their inner resilience, embrace change, and blossom into their true selves. Together, let’s discover and harness your inner strength as we navigate life’s intricate tapestry.

Your Partner in Healing, Growth, and Balance.

Accepting New Clients Offering virtual and in-person appointments Types of Therapy Christian C... Read More