(She/Her)
Registered Psychotherapist
RP, CTP Dipl
The very things that interfere with feeling good—anxiety, people-pleasing, numbness, depression, anger—in therapy become portals to understanding.
Therapy brings to light what we haven’t been able to see in ourselves. With depth of understanding comes relief—and hope. Things in your life may not have unfolded as planned, relationships may not have gone as you hoped they would. But emotional insight carries with it the possibility of change.
The realities of the world merit a place in therapy, too. These days, global issues can be a lot to handle. By coming to grips with our inner issues, we are better equipped to cope with what life throws at us. We feel more able to live life well, even within the confines of world problems.
Many studies, as well as research in neurobiology, show that psychotherapy is effective in increasing a sense of well-being in the long-term. Brain research and intensive training give us understanding of complex psychological processes and emotional development. Because psychotherapy deals with underlying issues, its benefits have staying power.
With therapy, there is no one-size-fits-all. Some clients dive in, others feel hesitant. For some, being granted the space to speak freely is key; others want more feedback. For me, it’s vital to respond to each individual in a way that suits them best, to work well with people’s different ways of communicating and relating.
Some people come to therapy worrying sessions will be relentlessly heavy. While I leave as much room as needed for people to express their troubling feelings, humour finds its way in too, bringing its own kind of relief. As well, clients can find it hard to see their own progress; I find it’s uplifting to notice and appreciate growth, to celebrate the subtle yet significant victories along the way.
I am additionally certified in Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST).
I offer sessions in person, via video, and over the phone depending on client preferences.
I grew up in Toronto in a neighbourhood that included many immigrant families, an environment that gave me a solid foundation of respect and appreciation for many cultures.
Since age 14 I’ve been drawn to therapy, when I read The Primal Scream by Arthur Janov. While Janov’s treatment approach struck me as too extreme, I did go on to experience other forms of therapy. These led to lasting personal growth. I know firsthand how healing and transformative psychotherapy can be over time.
Previous to training as a psychotherapist, I earned a Bachelor of Applied Arts that led to a career in writing and editing.
I’m also a parent: one of the most important jobs ever—and one of the most challenging.
Working as a therapist feels like a calling. It’s profoundly rewarding to connect with people in this way. Six years of intensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy as well as an additional academic year in trauma training (Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment), both knowledge-based and experiential, have been instrumental in developing the skills and awareness I bring to this work.
If you’re interested in arranging a session with me, the easiest way to begin is with a phone call. I offer a brief chat, at no cost, before the first session. Or if you’re more comfortable contacting me via email, that’s fine too.
Please email me at annako.therapy@gmail.com or phone me at 647.868.2396 or and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
I work from Monday through Thursday, daytime through to early evening, offering clients the choice of online or phone sessions.