The Canadian Psychotherapy Alliance’s founder, Aisha Applewhaite, launched her first business — The Harmonized Life — in 2015. Two years later, she shifted her model and launched Living Hope Therapies. After 5 years, she expanded her business model and founded the Canadian Psychotherapy Alliance (CPA). CPA continues to grow to meet the changing needs of Canadians nationwide.

Founder & CEO of the Canadian Psychotherapy Alliance (CPA), Aisha Applewhaite is a private practice therapist and hospital-based Registered Social Worker whose expertise is grounded in various treatment modalities including Gottman Method Level 1 for Couples, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Theory and Mindfulness.

Experience: Her experience in the areas of crisis, acute and chronic suicidality, self-harming behaviour, serious and pervasive mental illness including depression, anxiety and personality disorders enables her to be a strong clinical leader and mentor. She has helped a variety of populations, cultures and demographics with many issues including distress intolerance, emotion dysregulation, interpersonal struggles and distorted cognitive patterns.

Aisha’s formal learning began at the University of Toronto where she earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Bioethics and Criminology. From there, she earned an Honours Bachelor of Social Work from Lakehead University and moved onto McMaster University where she completed a Master of Social Work degree, focusing her thesis research on reflexivity and social work praxis, ultimately putting forth multiple definitions of reflexivity, which broaden the scope of reflexive inquiry, contextualize its usage and highlight its indications. Aisha maintains a commitment to ongoing professional development and has received numerous additional certifications and training.

Aisha prides herself on partnering with patients, clients and staff to engage in goal driven, best-practice treatment, aimed at creating a harmonized life; grounded in connection, resiliency, balance and peace.

The Canadian Psychotherapy Alliance’s founder, Aisha Applewhaite, launched her first business — T... Read More

Sometimes, we second-guess ourselves and become occupied with thoughts, behaviours, and feelings that make us believe we need to be anywhere but here in the present moment. We can get lost and wonder where we are without realizing we have what we need to navigate our daily lives and be who we wish to be.

Life is subjective, and with having an eclectic approach, I recognize that healing and self-acceptance are not a one-size-fits-all journey. Even though I am eclectic, I utilize an individualistic approach that supports the client in self-actualizing and accepting where they are in the healing process, which gives way to adapting to different challenges that life throws at us.

Healing is holistic, and the therapeutic process thrives in an environment that builds safety and connection and provides the opportunity to have the grace to walk the journey at one’s own pace. Therapy is like a dance that requires a safe place to be vulnerable enough to explore and release things that no longer serve us.

Experience:

Harmeet is a Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying and is currently attending Yorkville University, completing her clinical hours to graduate with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. Over the past seven years, she has worked as a mental health counsellor and case worker at Services and Housing in the Province, supporting clients with psychosis, depression, anxiety, addictions, suicidal ideation, stability, and daily functioning.

Client Focus: Individuals (starting 12+)

Types of therapy: Existential-informed, narrative-informed, Mindfulness CBT-informed, DBT-informed, psychodynamic, trauma-informed care, and person-centred

Issues: Anxiety, depression, addictions, mindfulness, psychosis, emotional regulation, personal growth Languages Spoken: English, Punjabi, Hindi

More than just my work:

I enjoy yoga and spending time with family and friends!

Sometimes, we second-guess ourselves and become occupied with thoughts, behaviours, and feelings ... Read More

Name: Celestine Eagle

Title: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Credentials: M.A., R.P. (Qualifying)

Provinces Served: Ontario

Session Location: Virtual, Telephone

Languages Utilized: English

Navigating life’s complexities amidst external and internal pressures can sometimes create feelings of being overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, and stressed. During these times, a sense of hopelessness, frustration, and loneliness might surface, especially when there is no support readily available, and the idea of seeking therapy seems daunting.

I am here to journey with each client, working together to rediscover potential, gratitude, motivation, and courage, amidst the challenges. I am dedicated to building an authentic therapeutic relationship, tailoring the approach to best meet each client’s unique needs, and exploring areas of growth where clients can thrive and feel empowered.

I aspire to nurture hope and possibility within every client by establishing a warm and trusting therapeutic rapport that acknowledges and embraces each person’s individuality. I adopt a holistic, inclusive, judgment-free perspective with a deep commitment to cultural humility. By providing a respectful, encouraging, and safe environment, I hope to support each client’s journey to a healthier, more fulfilled life.

Experience:

Celestine is a Registered Psychotherapist-Qualifying and a Yorkville University Master of Counselling Psychology practicum student. Celestine possesses a master’s degree in leadership and firmly believes that exceptional leaders create opportunities to inspire the growth of those around them. Celestine was born in South Africa, raised in Australia, has lived, and worked in the USA and now resides in Canada. Over the past ten years, she has worked at Centennial College as the founder, coordinator, and lead professor in the performing arts department, working with post-secondary students, overseeing faculty, and managing teams. Celestine has also volunteered at the Meeting House as a caregiver in the Stephens Ministries, working with individuals struggling with various aspects of their lives. Celestine is adept in working with diverse communities, is inclusive and adopts a stance of cultural humility by embracing individuality and celebrating authenticity. Celestine is known and respected for her holistic approach as an educator and has a unique ability to connect deeply and easily establish trusting and valuable relationships.

Client Focus: Individuals, Teens 12+

Types of therapy: CBT informed, DBT informed, Solution Focussed, Mindfulness

Issues: Depression, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Personal Growth, Stress, Performance anxiety, Life Transitions.

Languages Spoken: English

My Favourite Quote: “Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you feel like you’ve been buried, but you’ve actually been planted.” – Christine Caine

I love this quote because I believe every challenge can transform into a seed capable of thriving, blossoming with hope, and sparking positive change when it is watered and nourished with the proper care.

More than just my work:

I have a passion for music, dance, Pilates, painting, food, travelling, and indulging in creative pursuits. My favourite activities are sharing meals, playing board games, and taking strolls in nature or by the water. Meeting new people is something I thoroughly enjoy, and a great sense of humour is something I genuinely appreciate.

Name: Celestine Eagle Title: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Credentials: M.A., R.P. (Q... Read More

People are taught to focus on success and ambition. There’s an assumption everyone’s goal should be responsibility, power, and money. This fast paced lifestyle can be overwhelming. When we are overwhelmed by relationships, day-to-day activities or even our emotions, we find it difficult to process and cope with things. We can feel lost or stuck with no path forward.

In life, there are no one-fit solutions. Utilizing a solution-focused approach permits you, the client, to change by creating solutions rather than focusing on problems. Your goals will concentrate on present and future circumstances while we collaboratively work towards your envisioned solutions.

Therapy thrives in a safe non-judgmental environment. It provides the opportunity to grasp the underlying causes of our circumstances and create actionable steps to resolve the issue now and prevent it from returning in the future.

Leanne is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and is currently attending Yorkville University, completing her clinical hours to graduate with a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology. She completed her undergraduate degree in Biology and French Languages at the University of Guelph. Over the past 12 years, Leanne has volunteered at the Homewood Health Center working with a variety of patients throughout their stay. She has placed a special focus on the eating disorder population, working with clients through a self-help group she founded. Leanne has also volunteered at a virtual crisis center for 2 years working with youth and adults dealing with depression and thoughts of suicide.

People are taught to focus on success and ambition. There’s an assumption everyone’s goal should ... Read More

Provinces Served: Ontario

Languages Spoken: English

Session Location: Virtual, Telephone

What problem do you strive to overcome?

Problem:

The process of beginning therapy can generate a multitude of emotions in clients. Individuals entering the counselling environment might be hesitant to share their personal experiences and feel overwhelmed about taking this next step. They could have experienced inadequate counselling services in the past, have difficulties making changes in their life, and/or fear being judged or ridiculed. These factors can be a barrier for individuals seeking therapy.

Solution:

I work from a holistic, culturally inclusive, individualistic framework where I strive to create a safe and collaborative space for clients. I will provide an open and honest therapeutic relationship with clients that focuses on their individual needs, experiences, and goals.

Result:

I will collaborate with clients to develop a strong therapeutic relationship and ensure a respectful, comforting, and welcoming therapeutic space. This can help facilitate a client’s own growth and commitment to the counselling process.

Alexa is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and a Yorkville University Master of Counselling Psychology graduate. She completed her undergraduate degree at McMaster University in Biology and Psychology. Over the past two years, she has worked as a Youth Worker for the non-profit organization, 360 Kids. In her role here, she has fostered a rapport with youth and parents, provided informal counselling, external resources, and food support services, and engaged children and teens in numerous skills-based exercises to facilitate individual growth.

Alexa volunteered at St. Joseph’s Mental Health and Addictions Hospital for three years. In this volunteer role, Alexa provided support and engagement activities to clients with severe mental health diagnoses in the Acute Mental Health Unit. Currently, she volunteers at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) as a facilitator for an Adult Support for Depression group. As a group facilitator, Alexa provides confidential, respectful, and encouraging support to participants.

Client Focus: Individual, Adults, Adolescents (12+), Couples

Types of therapy: CBT-informed, DBT-informed, ACT-informed, Gottman Level 1 Certified

Issues:

(Standard) Anxiety, Depression, Emotional Regulation, Relationships, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem

(Specialties) Couples and adolescents who experience adversity.

Languages Spoken: English

More than just my work:

“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” — Nido Qubein A good mystery novel, hot chai tea, and some relaxing country music brings me a sense of ease and allows me to quiet my thoughts and focus on the present. I used to play competitive soccer for many years and find the sport to be challenging and fun, and something I hope to get back to. I loved the camaraderie of the other players. In the meantime, I have really been into baking and experimenting with dairy and gluten free cookies, cakes, and other pastries.

Provinces Served: Ontario Languages Spoken: English Session Location: Virtual, Telephone What ... Read More

Name: Smita Tham Title: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Credentials: R.P (Qualifying) Provinces Served: Ontario Session Location: Virtual, Telephone Languages Utilized: English, Nepali and Hindi

Life can present various challenges, such as in our professional lives, relationships, financial situations, adjusting to a new country, our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being and much more. Navigating through this sea of difficulties and challenges can feel overwhelming, and our pleas for help often go unheard and we suffer in silence. We want to change things but are uncertain how to change them. When this happens, the very essence of thriving and living a meaningful and desired life becomes compromised.

I utilize a holistic and individualistic approach that considers the uniqueness of each client and the various aspects of human experience, including the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects. My priority is working with my clients to help them reach their goals and fulfill their potential.

I would be happy to collaborate with you in creating a healing space that is free from judgment, where you can truly feel accepted, listened to, and appreciated. We can focus on important aspects such as self-discovery, taking back control of your life, and recognizing the strength that lies within you.

Experience: Smita is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Yorkville University Master of Counselling Psychology practicum student. Over the past five years, she has worked at a non-profit organization that provides emotional, psychological, spiritual and physical assistance. She has provided informal counselling to clients with depression, anxiety, family issues, and new immigrant families and individuals. She has volunteered at the crisis line for people in distress. Previously, she worked as a teacher in India, teaching middle and high school students.

Client Focus: Individuals, teens and children 10+

Types of therapy: CBT informed therapy, DBT informed therapy, Solution-Focused, Person-Centred, Strengths Based, trauma informed.

Issues: anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, acculturation stress

Favourite Quote: “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” ― C.S. Lewis

More than just my work: I love being in nature. I appreciate the beauty and the brilliance in which it is designed. Nature makes me feel grounded.

I enjoy travelling, cooking, reading, watching good movies, spending time with family and friends and, on some days, just being by myself.

Name: Smita Tham Title: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Credentials: R.P (Qualifying) Pro... Read More

Sometimes as humans, we are reluctant to change and growth; therefore, it is not unusual for clients to feel hesitant about starting therapy. The obstacles arise when starting therapy is observed as a form of weakness and shame, which causes clients to feel subjugated. There are many individuals entering therapeutic spaces who are fearful of being open because they do not want to be judged. There are also individuals who want their unique stories to be heard, but they dread being misunderstood. These factors can prevent clients from having an amazing therapeutic experience.

I utilize a cultural and individualistic approach that focuses on allowing my clients to feel heard and understood. Being collaborative with my clients is essential to establishing the appropriate modality for their therapeutic success. This is evident since no one is the same; every client has a different journey and unique stories to share.

My aim is to encourage my clients to use their voices as tools to strengthen their psychological framework and in time, become the best version of themselves. I will provide a safe, open, and comfortable therapeutic environment for my clients to grow and be their authentic selves.

Client Focus: Individuals starting at age +12 Types of therapy: Existential Informed Therapy, Narrative – Informed Therapy, Mindfulness CBT Informed Therapy, Humanistic Informed Therapy, Solution Focused Informed Therapy

Issues: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Personal Growth, Mindfulness

Languages Spoken: English

Aaliyah Thompson is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualified) and a Yorkville University graduate student who is completing her clinical hours to earn her Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. Over the past two years, she has worked as an English as a Second Language Educator, who has focused on teaching English to professionals from different cultures around the world.

She has also volunteered as a youth mentor of Power to Girls Foundation, where she made it her priority to lead and encourage young women from marginalized communities to be empowered, valued and authentic to who they are, as future leaders in our society. She is a current volunteer of Distress Centre Niagara, and she makes it her priority to provide emotional listening support and crisis intervention to clients in distress.

Client Focus: Individuals age +12

Types of therapy:

Existential Informed Therapy, Narrative Informed Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT Informed Therapy, Humanistic Informed Therapy, Solution Focused Informed Therapy, DBT Informed Therapy

Issues: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Personal Growth, Mindfulness

More than just work:

“A genuine effort to understand another person and their culture goes a long way in the path to communication” – Neils Barends Listening to an interesting podcast, while having my feet elevated, with a hot cup of green tea in a quiet place, gives me the opportunity reflect and relax my thoughts. I have a passion for dancing, as growing up, it was an outlet for me to express myself. I value spending time with my family members and friends and learning about new things.

Sometimes as humans, we are reluctant to change and growth; therefore, it is not unusual for clie... Read More

PROBLEM

When your anxiety causes emotional stress it can become an issue that affects every move and decision you make. Thoughts can be overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be this way.

SOLUTION

By working with me, you will begin to know which thoughts cause you the most anxiety. Coping skills that will allow you to take back your life will be a focus of our therapeutic journey. I respect your experience.

RESULT

When we work together, you will identify the thoughts that cause you emotional stress and we can discover practical ways in moving away and forward without anxiety.

EXPERIENCE

Patrizia (Patricia) is a Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist and a University of Windsor graduate with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Over the past 11 years, she has worked in various mental health agencies and has experience in working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, stress, anger and emotional regulation. For the past 10 years, she has experience working with Domestic Violence working in a Women’s Shelter.

CLIENT FOCUS

Individual, young adults 18+, older adults and families.

TYPES OF THERAPY

CBT, DBT, Narrative, solution focused and Holistic approaches

ISSUES

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Stress, Emotional Regulation, Addictions, Life transitions, Grief and Loss, Self-Esteem and Anger.

SPECIALITIES

Working with women who have experienced domestic violence (Intimate Partner violence) and abuse

LANGUAGES

English and Italian

FAVOURITE QUOTE

“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” Brene Brown

MORE THAN JUST MY WORK

I enjoy listening to music and cooking. It brings me great pleasure and allows me to enjoy being in the moment…we are all intended to live presently or we will miss living life!

PROBLEM When your anxiety causes emotional stress it can become an issue that affects every move... Read More