Samantha Szirmak

I provide therapy to adolescents and adults experiencing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, shame/guilt, stress and burnout, self-esteem, identity struggles, eating and/or body image concerns, and relationship difficulties. I also support clients coping with traumatic life experiences or difficult life transitions. My approach to therapy and understanding your inner world is integrative and person-centered. I draw on Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients gain insight and make positive changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. I practice through a trauma-informed lens that values safety and trust at the core of our work together. I welcome clients from all cultures, backgrounds, and walks of life. For me, each client and therapy is unique. My goal is to meet you where you are at to help guide you where you want to go. Our work together aims to alleviate your current emotional distress and address any coping difficulties. In our first session, we will discuss what brings you to therapy and any additional concerns. From there, we will work collaboratively to identify areas for growth and change. We will explore the origins and contributing factors of your present difficulties to develop a greater understanding of your personal evolution. Through this process of self-exploration, we can also work towards strengthening relationships that may be troubled or lacking in satisfaction. In learning more about yourself, you will have the opportunity to gain greater self-awareness, acceptance, and access your own inner strengths and wisdom. It is from there that you will experience personal growth and manage life’s challenges with greater presence and confidence. For the past 8 years I have worked in mental health and educational organizations providing counselling and support to adults and university students. I am presently completing a Master’s degree in Psychology at Adler Graduate Professional School in Toronto. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from McGill University and Certificate in Mental Health and Addictions from Ryerson University. At my core, I am passionate about reading, learning, and helping others. Thus, I regularly attend workshops, seminars, and courses outside of my graduate work to inform and deepen my therapy practice. I am a member of the Ontario Psychological Association and the Canadian Psychological Association. My work at CFIR is supervised by Dr. Jean Kim, C. Psych. I look forward to meeting and working with you when the time comes. Until then, take very good care.