Our Therapists
Welcome to our bio page! We hope reading our bios provides a first great impression and a sense of our therapeutic style. Read more to learn about our approaches, experiences and qualifications.
Vi Phan MSW RSW she/her
As a psychotherapist, I consider it a privilege to be able to be a part of people’s exploration of their identity and their stories. Therapy offers a safe space to dedicate time to understanding our life experiences and an opportunity to continue to make meaning of our lives. I am grateful to have been able to grow professionally and personally from over 12 years of working in the field of psychotherapy, education and human services. My interest and curiosity in working with people with a range of life experiences have played a significant role in shaping how I provide counselling and connect with people who come from diverse backgrounds. I hope to share my own passion for learning and growth in my work with clients. My approach: The fast-paced nature of the world we live in has taught me the importance of pausing to reflect on whether we are living with clarity and intention. Each person is on their own unique journey in discovering their own path, which is why I offer an integrative approach that incorporates various therapeutic approaches based on the individual. While I offer an integrative approach for therapeutic techniques, the foundation of my approach involves understanding the importance of connection and relationship between the therapist and client. To foster a therapeutic relationship, I offer mindful presence and listening, compassion, and a person-centered approach that recognizes the nature of interconnection in terms of the relational, social and systemic impact on people’s lives. Education and Professional Experience: I graduated from the University of Toronto with a Master’s of Social Work. As a registered social worker, I bring clinical experience that blends psychology with a sociological understanding. More specifically, my work is guided by an anti-oppressive and anti-racist framework, mindfulness based clinical approaches, trauma informed support, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialetical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Non Violent Communication (NVC) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). My experiences in providing therapy and mental health supports recognizes and appreciates the intersection of the various aspects of people’s identity and life experiences. These include navigating life changes and transitions such as becoming a professional, a parent, or university student, balancing school or career demands, communication skills, dealing with perfectionism, navigating and understanding culture, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship challenges and ADHD management. Please do not hesitate to get in touch. I offer a free 15-minute consult for you to explore whether I may be a good fit in supporting your therapeutic journey.
Sofia Pelaez MSW RSW she/her
In all my years of practice as a psychotherapist, my motivation for work comes from the people who tirelessly work to build their lives and thrive. I have a special interest in supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds in engaging in the therapeutic process in a safe and inclusive manner. I draw from my personal and professional experience in my work, to help individuals understand themselves and others to navigate the world around them, while fostering self-compassion and confidence. My primary focus with my clients has been providing support with overcoming anxiety and stress, emotional overwhelm, overcoming self-judgment, managing self-doubt, loneliness, relationship issues, and trauma. I use a client-centred approach where the aim is to foster a relationship based on safety, trust, empowerment, choice, and collaboration. I will support you in making informed decisions. Together, we will work to identify strategies to resolve the challenges that bring you to therapy, whether it be a journey of self-discovery and exploration or developing tools which will nurture reflection, confidence, and growth. I can provide counselling services in English and Spanish. About my education and experience: I am a registered social worker with a master’s in social work (MSW). I have over 12 years of experience working with survivors of trauma, youth and young adults, newcomers, racialized women, individuals with ADHD and 2SLGBTQ+. I am trained in various modalities (CBT-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; DBT -Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and body-based therapies) and work from an anti-oppressive approach and trauma informed care. Please contact me for a free 15-30 minute consultation.