Compassion Focused Therapists in Ottawa, ON
Cassandra Tennriello
Registered Psychotherapist
Hi! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor with 11 years of experience. I walk alongside my clients as they heal, whether supporting emotional regulation, processing trauma, or navigating life transitions. I use an integrative approach, drawing from different theories, modalities, and approaches that fit their unique needs!
Katharine De Santos
Registered Psychotherapist
Healthy Minds Psychotherapy was founded in 2018 with the mission of providing psychotherapeutic care to individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering resilience in each person and our community as a whole.
Mara Behan
Registered Psychotherapist, Qualifying
Feeling stuck in painful relationship patterns or life transitions? I offer a warm, collaborative space to help you rebuild trust, improve communication, and find clarity through healing. You don’t have to do it alone—reach out for a brief consultation to explore if we’re a good fit.
Amanda Rennick-Hazen
Registered Psychotherapist
I enjoy using a variety of techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Strategies, Mindfulness Meditation, Trauma Informed, Compassion Focused, & Emotion Focused. Depression & Sadness Anxiety & Worry Work , Home, & School Stress Grief & Loss Divorce & Separation Unexpected life transitions, unexpected change, lost opportunities
Lisa O’Donovan
Registered Psychotherapist
I offer Psychodynamic, trauma-informed therapy for adults and couples in-person in Burlington and virtually. I support clients navigating complex trauma, relationship difficulties, addiction and recovery, family dysfunction, and life transitions helping to uncover and understand emotional and relational patterns, process experiences, build greater self-awareness in a safe, compassionate space.
Maya Dousti
Registered Psychotherapist
I am a BIPOC trauma therapist, and I work with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, life transitions, racial/cultural issues, new parenthood, identity, family and interpersonal relationships. I work eclectically, borrowing from several modalities to meet my client's needs.
Eleni Anagnosti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, HBA, BA
My approach is compassionate, culturally attuned, and collaborative. I draw from CBT, strengths-based, solution-focused, and trauma-informed approaches to support ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, life transitions, and relationship patterns. Together, we focus on building practical tools, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of self-trust.
Heather Andrew
Registered Clinical Social Worker MSW RCSW
Heather Andrew is the founder of Aspen Wellness Centre. Heather has been a Mental Health Therapist for over eight years, supporting clients with a variety of needs including complex trauma, ADHD, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, family conflict and more. Heather is passionate about providing trauma informed care to her clients and is a fierce advocate for mental health awareness.
Carolyn Holmes
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Offering affordable virtual sessions for infertility, ADHD, PMDD, grief/loss, stress, anxiety, and depression. Trained in DBT, CBT, humanistic/client led, solution focused, narrative therapy approaches. A warm, open counsellor to help with immediate availability.
Mara Behan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I help couples and individuals find growth, healing, and stronger connections. Using evidence-based and individualized approaches, I support those struggling with women's health concerns (e.g., pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, menopause), relationship concerns (e.g., resentment, infidelity), and life transitions (e.g., separation/divorce, parenting). I offer a free 15-minute consultation!
Abby Tait
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
You might come to therapy feeling stuck in familiar patterns - ways of coping, thinking, or relating that once made sense but now feel hard to shift. You may be thoughtful and self-aware, yet find yourself overthinking, avoiding certain emotions, or feeling disconnected from who you are or where you’re headed. Questions about identity, values, and purpose often sit quietly underneath these experi…
Salima Jadavji
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CHyp™
I support high-functioning professionals and caregivers who feel exhausted, anxious, or disconnected beneath the surface. Using a trauma-informed, collaborative approach, I help you move beyond coping toward steadiness and self-trust. Email [email protected] to book a free consultation and see if we’re a fit.
Maya Awad
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), ADHD-SP, HBSc (she, her)
Accepting NEW clients - Are you feeling overwhelmed or like you’re carrying a lot on your own? Feel like you're doing everything you’re “supposed to do,” but something still doesn’t feel right? Have a desire to better understand your thoughts, emotions, or patterns, work on building confidence or self-esteem, or find support for your relationship?
Manisha Grewal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I offer a compassionate space to address both immediate struggles and deeper patterns. Together, we’ll build tools to manage symptoms in the present while exploring past experiences, identity, and meaning. My approach blends existential therapy, parts work (IFS), and ACT, and is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and LGBTQIA+/BIPOC affirming.
Cierra DoCouto
Registered Psychotherapist
Helping adults in Burlington, Ontario navigate anxiety, self-esteem challenges, relationship concerns, and attachment patterns. Offering in-person and virtual psychotherapy that is collaborative, evidence-informed, and tailored to support personal growth, emotional well-being, and resilience.
Yasmin Ahmad
Registered Psychotherapist
Sisu Therapy offers virtual psychotherapy to adults across Ontario. A calm, collaborative space for anxiety, overwhelm, life transitions, and navigating cultural or family expectations, with care taken to move forward at a manageable pace.
Laura Shaw
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or finding meaning in life? If you feel overwhelmed, sad, or confused, you’re not alone. I specialize in helping adults navigate life's challenges, heal from trauma, and build up their self-esteem. I work from a trauma-informed neuro-affirming lens and integrate mind-body practices to help you feel more resilient. You don’t have to do this alone.
Grace Gao
Registered Social Worker
Grace is passionate about creating accessible and culturally responsive mental health support, particularly for individuals who may feel hesitant to seek formal counseling services. As a bilingual professional fluent in English and Mandarin, she values creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where clients feel heard and respected.
River Page
Registered Psychotherapist
I offer a warm, non-judgmental space for individuals and relationships to explore life’s challenges and deepen self-understanding. My work supports those navigating religious or relational trauma, 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, non-monogamy, neurodivergence, gender and sexuality, suicide and self-harm, and environmental anxiety. All with compassion, curiosity, and care.
Mackenzie Fournier
Registered Psychotherapist
Hi, I’m Mackenzie! I’m a Psychotherapist who loves keeping therapy real, down-to-earth, and practical. I help people untangle patterns around anxiety, food, and self-trust using tools grounded in science. In sessions, I bring my authentic self—you can expect a mix of support, guidance, and maybe a little humour when it feels right—so we can tackle challenges together without the extra pressure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a therapist in Ontario?
Finding a therapist in Ontario is easier with Theralist. Our directory lists verified therapists, counsellors, and psychologists across the province. You can browse by specialty, location (Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, etc.), and whether they offer online sessions. Visit our Ontario therapist page and search for the type of support you need.
What are typical wait times for therapy in Ontario?
Wait times for publicly funded counselling in Ontario average 3-5 months for basic services, longer for specialized care. Private therapy offers faster access. Virtual sessions often have shorter wait times than in-person appointments. Theralist helps you find therapists with shorter available appointment slots.
Can I access therapy online in Ontario?
Yes. Most Ontario therapists now offer online sessions via video call, phone, or secure messaging. Virtual therapy is expanding access significantly, especially for those in rural areas, people with mobility challenges, or those seeking flexible scheduling. Filter by online options on Theralist to find remote therapists.
Does OHIP cover private therapy costs?
OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) does not cover private therapy costs. However, many Ontario therapists accept extended health benefits through workplace insurance. Some offer sliding scale fees based on income. Check with your employer about mental health coverage through your benefits plan.
What types of therapy are available in Ontario?
Ontario therapists offer cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, couples therapy, grief counselling, trauma therapy, anxiety counselling, depression therapy, ADHD therapy, addiction counselling, and more. Search by specialty on Theralist to find a therapist matching your needs.
How can I find an Ontario therapist who accepts insurance?
Many registered psychologists and social workers in Ontario accept extended health benefits. Check your insurance plan to see what mental health services are covered (typically $500-$2,000 annually). Contact therapists directly to confirm they accept your specific insurance. Theralist therapist profiles often list insurance details.
Are there affordable therapy options in Ontario?
Yes. Community health centres offer low-cost or free counselling (though with longer wait times). Some private therapists offer sliding scale fees. Employee assistance programs (EAPs) through your workplace often provide free counselling sessions. Theralist can help you find therapists offering flexible payment options.
What credentials should I look for in an Ontario therapist?
Look for registered credentials such as PhD or Master's in Psychology, Registered Social Worker (RSW), or registered psychotherapist credentials. Verify therapists are registered with their professional body such as the College of Psychologists of Ontario or the Ontario College of Social Workers. Theralist displays therapist qualifications to help you choose.
Does Ontario have therapists specializing in specific issues?
Yes. Ontario therapists specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, OCD, ADHD, couples therapy, work-related stress, and addiction. Many also work with cultural or immigrant-specific issues, given Ontario's diverse population. Search by specialty on Theralist to find an expert in your area of concern.
Can I get therapy for couples and relationship issues in Ontario?
Yes. Many Ontario therapists offer couples therapy and relationship counselling in-person and online. This includes marriage counselling, pre-marriage counselling, and relationship crisis support. Theralist helps you find qualified relationship therapists in Toronto, Ottawa, or across Ontario.
What is EMDR therapy and is it available in Ontario?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy for trauma and PTSD. Many Ontario therapists, particularly psychologists, offer EMDR. Use Theralist to filter by therapy type or contact therapists directly to confirm EMDR availability.
