Rachel received her Art Therapy Diploma from The Toronto Art Therapy Institute in 2005. She is delighted to be a new team member at Mind Matters Psychotherapy and Education!

Rachel’s thesis was entitled Art Therapy As A Medium To Express Insecurity In Latency-Aged Children.

After completing her coursework at TATI, she was hired to join the Birth-to-Six Specialized Therapy Unit at The Hincks-Dellcrest Centre, which is now The Garry Hurvitz Centre for Community Mental Health at SickKids Hospital in Toronto. Rachel worked with individual children, families and with parent-child dyads.

In addition to her training and credentials in art therapy Rachel has 16 years of experience teaching predominantly children and adolescents from 18 months old to 16 years, at the Avenue Road Arts School in Toronto.

Rachel’s teaching culminated in her position as the Associate Director of the School.

She has facilitated art workshops with seniors and found the experience truly gratifying. In her career, Rachel has incorporated bringing art to underserved and low-income children and youth of all ages in the GTA, including with Arts For Children & Youth Of Ontario, now VIBE Arts.

Engaging clients in the art-making process as a therapeutic modality is a natural and intuitive way to bring forth a fundamental awareness of their inner worlds.

Rachel is passionate about art as a reflection of inner psychology and a source of perspective and self-compassion. Her evaluation of creative instincts propels her to be a life-long student and a voracious reader of various psychological literature snd modalities including mindfulness, trauma response, vagal nerve toning to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, mind-body connection, and the psychology of chronic pain.

Rachel collaborates with her clients to understand their experience with complex emotions such as shame, anxiety, grief and trauma and to help disentangle the body’s natural defence systems and find healthier coping methods.

Rachel looks to the past, as much as current research to bring appropriate techniques into her art therapy room for her clients.

At Mind Matters, Rachel offers Art Therapy and Counselling to individuals of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relational and behavioural issues, attachment challenges, emotional regulation, issues regarding self-esteem and identity, and issues related to coping with and processing trauma and PTSD. Rachel has extensive knowledgable of art & play therapies and techniques and she is a member of CATA, OATA and OAMHP.

Rachel received her Art Therapy Diploma from The Toronto Art Therapy Institute in 2005. She is de... Read More

Leigh offers a warm, collaborative space where you can slow down, feel safe, and be heard. She trusts that each person has an inner compass—even when it feels hidden. Grounded in a client-centred, strengths-based approach, Leigh works with clients to clarify what matters and support meaningful change. She draws on an integrative framework that includes solution-focused strategies and other evidence-informed tools to help clients cope, connect, and move forward.

Leigh brings deep empathy for those navigating family, identity, and life transitions, informed by both personal reflection and professional learning. She also cares deeply about how broader systems influence our well-being and keeps that in mind as she walks alongside clients.

Before pursuing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (Yorkville University), Leigh worked in partnership-building and advocacy with national health and child-wellbeing organizations. She holds a B.Sc. in Biology and Health from Queen’s University and a Graduate Diploma in Social Responsibility & Sustainability from the University of St. Michael’s College (University of Toronto).

When not in session, Leigh can usually be found being walked by her Boston Terriers, reading something she meant to finish weeks ago, or catching up with her teens in the in-between moments.

Leigh offers a warm, collaborative space where you can slow down, feel safe, and be heard. She tr... Read More

Maryna is a professional Art Therapist (intern) who is passionate about the healing power of art and its ability to foster emotional, psychological and personal growth.

She is deepening her knowledge of Art Therapy and her understanding of mental health, creativity and healing at the Canadian International Institute of Art Psychotherapy (CiiAT).

Maryna also has a Professional Diploma in Counselling Psychology from the University of Contemporary Psychology in Russia. She has completed training in Family Constellations and Internal Parts (Internal Family) to deepen her understanding of family systems and the impact of early experiences on personal growth. She is also currently expanding her expertise through specialised training in Trauma Therapy.

Maryna holds a Master’s degree from the Pedagogical University in Belarus and an Art diploma from MaxtheMutt College in Toronto. Her diverse educational background allows her to offer a holistic, client-centred approach that blends creativity with therapeutic insight.

Maryna has a passion for working with individuals who want to focus on Self Esteem / Personal Growth, Anxiety / Life Transitions and Emotional and Stress Regulation

Maryna is a professional Art Therapist (intern) who is passionate about the healing power of art ... Read More

Marcie is currently completing her M.A. in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. She holds a B.A. (Hons) in Psychology from Trent University. She is an advocate for mental health and has long-standing ambition to become a counsellor. She is passionate about working with children, youth and families and aspires to continue working with this population once completing her degree. Marcie’s passion for supporting children and youth stems from her extensive experience working with adolescence within the nonprofit sector at both the Boys and Girls Club, and the YMCA. She has seen the important role mindfulness and relaxation techniques can have on children and youth and strives to incorporate this into her work when applicable. Marcie works from a biopsychosocial, trauma-informed framework and believes that there is no standard approach to therapy. She instead alters her approach to meet each individual client’s experiences, goals, and needs. In addition, she believes attachment styles often play a role on current struggles and, in understanding them, we can better identify root causes, or contributors, of negative emotional experiences. Marcie wants to walk alongside her clients and support them through hearing and understanding their stories and implementing coping mechanisms that will best support them

Marcie is currently completing her M.A. in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. She h... Read More

Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but your decision to seek support is truly courageous. Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, loneliness, or anger? Or are you in an abusive relationship, feeling trapped and unsure of what to do next? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. I am here to meet you where you are and provide a safe, supportive space to help you rediscover your strength, confidence, and hope. With experience supporting adults, couples, teens and children through life stress and trauma, I am committed to walking with you toward healing and growth.

Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but your decision to seek support is truly courageous. Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, loneliness, or anger? Or are you in an abusive relationship, feeling trapped and unsure of what to do next? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. I am here to meet you where you are and provide a safe, supportive space to help you rediscover your strength, confidence, and hope. With experience supporting adults, couples, teens and children through life stress and trauma, I am committed to walking with you toward healing and growth. View 4 Photos I hold an MSc in Psychology and Christian Counseling. My flexible, client-centered approach integrates CBT, IFS, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and, if desired, faith-based techniques tailored to your needs. I provide a compassionate space to explore emotions, manage stress, heal, and grow using holistic, evidence-based methods I listen actively to understand clients and their problems and work with clients to establish treatment goals

Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but your decision to seek support is t... Read More

Avalina is currently accepting new clients, and works with ages 4 and up, providing a safe and comfortable therapeutic space. Her approach draws on a range of modalities, including play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and animal-assisted wellness, ensuring that treatment is tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Avalina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology & Justice with a minor in Forensic Psychology, and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University (2024). She is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the CRPO, and a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. With over four years of experience in the social work sector, she specializes in trauma-informed care and is dedicated to supporting individuals throughout their healing journey.

Avalina is currently accepting new clients, and works with ages 4 and up, providing a safe and co... Read More

Kezia John, MCC, is a Mental Health Professional who specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of relationships, life transitions, and healing from the past. With a compassionate and attachment-based approach, Kezia supports clients in exploring how their earlier experiences influence current dynamics. Her goal is to support clients in fostering healthy connections by encouraging authenticity and an active presence within their relationships.

She works with those struggling with people-pleasing, boundary setting, reassurance-seeking, and co-dependence, guiding them toward deeper self-awareness and healthier ways of relating. Drawing on Narrative Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Kezia helps clients reframe adversity into opportunities for growth and resilience.

Her practice offers a safe and supportive space for families and individuals to make sense of challenges, strengthen bonds, and foster greater clarity and confidence in facing the “what’s next?” question. Together, Kezia and her clients build pathways toward meaningful change, balancing acceptance of what cannot be altered with empowerment to shape what can.

Kezia John, MCC, is a Mental Health Professional who specializes in helping individuals and famil... Read More

I am currently a master’s level MA in Counselling Psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice at Mind Matters Psychotherapy & Creative Education under the clinical supervision of Christine Johansen (Founder/Clinical Director at Mind Matters). My approach is through a psychodynamic lens, meaning I work collaboratively with individuals to help discover the ‘why’ of their challenges and develop a deeper understand of themselves. As we journey to the ‘why’ I work with individuals to develop coping skills, manage relationship dynamics, bolster self-esteem, and manage negative thoughts along the way.

I work with all populations from youth to adults of all demographics and genders. With years of crisis intervention experience, I offer a calm, safe, and respectful environment to incite introspective change. Through this, I collaborate with clients to build the tools they need to reach their goals. I offer a flexible schedule to help fit your therapeutic goals into daily life. Book a free 20 minute phone or video consult to see if my approach is right for you!

I am currently a master’s level MA in Counselling Psychology practicum student who is qualified t... Read More

I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (Honours) from Yorkville University. I also earned an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Child & Youth Studies from Trent University and an Honours Graduate Certificate in Addictions & Mental Health from Durham College. I’m a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) and have experience supporting adults, as well as mentoring children and youth. I’m passionate about working with people at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.

I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. I take an eclectic, client-centred approach, drawing on methods such as CBT, ACT, existential, humanistic, person-centred (PCT), solution-focused (SFT), strengths-based, mindfulness, and DBT. I also integrate compassion-focused therapy (CFT), attachment-based, and trauma-informed strategies, providing LGBTQ+ affirmative and feminist-informed care. My goal is to walk alongside you, helping you explore your experiences, build coping strategies, and discover your own strengths at a pace that feels right.

Outside of work, I enjoy walking my dogs, spending time with my family, and listening to podcasts. I bring curiosity, warmth, and a sense of humour into my work, and love celebrating the small and big victories in life with my clients.

I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (Honours) from Yorkville University. I also ear... Read More

As a counsellor, I truly believe that this journey is yours to navigate, and the right support in place can guide you to the best resources to help chart out your path. Therapy is your space to be a messy human. There will be times when I will push you, challenge you, and encourage you to stay the course, but we will do it side by side.

Although the work is not always comfortable (as change rarely is), you will find what you need to move forward or let go within a safer space of compassion and understanding. Together we craft a space that allows you to show up however you are and receive the support you need.

I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating life concerns, anxiety, grief, trauma, and perinatal (postpartum) concerns. I use a holistic approach to counselling, meaning we will look at all areas of your life, search for your resources, and with tools drawn from creative modalities, solution-focused, mindfulness-based, and narrative therapies we will work through it together.

As a counsellor, I truly believe that this journey is yours to navigate, and the right support in... Read More

Alex strives to provide a safe, supportive, warm, and non-judgmental environment to encourage self-discovery, exploration of emotions, and healing.

Alex is currently completing her M.A. in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and holds a B.A. in Psychology from Brock University. Alex has experience working in therapeutic settings such as domestic violence shelters and group homes. She has also volunteered as a Crisis Responder with Kids Help Phone and has worked as a support staff in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. Alex has experience working with children and youth with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and trauma. Alex has seen the positive effects of using creative and experiential approaches to therapy and strives to incorporate this into her work when appropriate.

Alex is passionate about creating a therapeutic relationship with clients based on collaboration, empathy, and authenticity. Alex works from a client-centered, trauma-informed framework and alters her approach to best fit the needs of each unique client. Compassionate support and positive regard are offered every step of the way for each’s clients journey to embracing positive change. Alex uses a strength-based approach to highlight individual resiliency and is dedicated to making sure clients feel heard, valued, and respected while empowering them to meet their goals and achieve healing at their own pace.

Alex strives to provide a safe, supportive, warm, and non-judgmental environment to encourage sel... Read More

I am passionate about people and their overall well being. I work with youth and young adults who are transitioning from one phase in life to another (i.e. high-school to college/university or recently diagnosed with an illness or mental health disorder) and who are finding the change overwhelming and sometimes difficult to manage. I also work with individuals, families, and couples who are facing some of life’s tough realities such as the breakdown of a relationship, divorce, loss, grief, and bereavement. I also support people with a range of other mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, addictions, and trauma.

I have extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (diagnostic specific), talk therapy, motivational interviewing, emotion-focused family therapy, emotion-focused couples therapy, mindfulness, trauma informed therapy, and bereavement counselling. I work from a client-centred collaborative approach, where compassion for self and others is encouraged.

I work with clients to help them to develop their ability to reflect, accept, and move forward in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way. My goal is to support clients in their life’s journey, where awareness and understanding provides growth, builds confidence, allows for forgiveness, fosters healthy relationships, and encourages overall well being.

I am passionate about people and their overall well being. I work with youth and young adults who... Read More

Hannah’s goal is to provide all her clients with a safe, supportive, and empowering environment to promote healing. She knows that each client’s journey is different and reaching out to begin healing can be a difficult task. For this reason, she believes that establishing a safe, and trusting therapeutic relationship is the first step. She utilizes a client-centered, empathy-based approach, built around the client’s collaboration.

Hannah is currently completing her M.A in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. She holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Health Studies (Honours) from Queen’s University, where she also completed a Global Health and Disability exchange program in the UK. As a new mental health professional, Hannah is looking forward to supporting children, youth couples, adults, and families on their healing journeys.

Hannah’s goal is to provide all her clients with a safe, supportive, and empowering environment t... Read More