Hi, I’m Atia, a therapist-in-training completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. My approach to therapy is grounded, culturally attuned, and person-centred. I’m here to create a space where you feel seen, not just as a set of symptoms, but as a whole person with history, nuance, and wisdom.

As a woman of colour and child of immigrants, I understand what it’s like to grow up between cultures, feeling like you’re constantly code-switching, never quite fitting into one place, and carrying expectations that don’t always align with your own values. Sometimes that sense of in-between-ness shows up as knowing parts of your language, but not enough to feel fluent; practising aspects of your faith or culture, but not feeling fully anchored in either. It can leave you holding identities that seem fragmented or incomplete…never quite enough in any one space.  It might also include feeling confident and competent in certain roles, such as in your career or caregiving responsibilities, while simultaneously feeling uncertain, inexperienced, or “behind” in other areas of your life. These internal tensions can contribute to feelings of disconnection, self-doubt, or not fully belonging in any one space.

I understand how disorienting and lonely that can feel. In our work together, I hope to help you make room for all of those pieces, to see that they are not contradictions, but reflections of your richness. Wholeness isn’t about fitting neatly into one definition; it’s about honouring and integrating the parts of you that already exist.

I’m particularly passionate about supporting clients who carry the role of the eldest daughter, the emotional anchor, or the one who is always “holding it all together.” I recognize the deep, quiet fatigue that can come from being the reliable one, managing others’ expectations while struggling to carve out space for your own needs. Whether you’re navigating cultural expectations, burnout, family responsibilities, or imposter syndrome, I offer compassionate, non-pathologizing support.

My therapeutic approach blends evidence-based and relational modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and trauma-informed care. I also integrate mindfulness and self-compassion practices, particularly when working with clients who are navigating shame, anxiety, or perfectionism.

I support individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, with a focus on first-generation clients, BIPOC folks, high-achieving women, and those exploring cultural identity, low self-worth, and relationship boundaries. I approach therapy with warmth, curiosity, and deep respect. I believe that healing is not about fixing what’s broken, but about rediscovering the parts of ourselves that may have been silenced, dismissed, or forgotten.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re too much and not enough at the same time – or like you’ve been managing everything for everyone but yourself – I want you to know you don’t have to carry that alone. I’m here to walk alongside you with care and a deep belief in your capacity to heal.