About
Professional, compassionate psychotherapy in Toronto
Professional photo coming soon
Welcome
I'm dedicated to providing a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work toward positive change.
With 25 years of experience in psychotherapy, I understand that seeking help is a courageous step. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, focusing on your unique needs, strengths, and goals. Together, we will explore the challenges you are experiencing and I will support you in finding effective solutions, while building practical tools and strategies for healing and personal growth.
I hope that our therapeutic relationship will facilitate change. My practice is grounded in respect, empathy, and care for the person I work with. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you in your journey.
Education & Credentials
Education
- Master's Degree with honors in Linguistics and Literature, with diploma of interpreter from English into Russian (Friendship University)
- PhD in Psycholinguistics (Academy of Sciences)
- Doctorate in the Theory of Language (Moscow State University)
- Master's Degree in Psychology (Kaluga State University)
- PhD in Psychology of Personality (Southern Federal University)
- Bridge Training Program for Internationally trained Psychologists and Allied Mental Health Professionals (Mennonite New Life Centre)
Professional Credentials
- Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario #01594 (CRPO)
- Certified Mental Health Professional (Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals #2957-0412C, OAMHP)
- Psychology Today profile
- Nine books and more than 200 articles on language, culture, psychology, and psychotherapy
- Worked in different Universities of the world (Afghanistan, Cuba, Russia, Poland, Taiwan, USA)
Specialized Training
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness-Based Approaches
- Courses on mental health and psychotherapy practice (~100 hours a year)
Therapeutic Approach
Client-Centered & Collaborative
I believe you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can freely explore your experiences and discover your unique path forward. Psychotherapy is a collaborative journey; together, we will identify your goals and develop strategies tailored to your needs.
Evidence-Based Methods
My practice integrates various evidence-based therapeutic approaches, tailored to meet your individual needs:
My guiding paradigm is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This approach seeks to identify patterns of thinking and behavior that sustain negative and harmful life patterns. I also use a variety of methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Coaching, Neuro-linguistic Programming, Narrative Therapy, Transactional Analysis, and Positive Psychotherapy and Mindfulness-Based Approaches.
Areas of Specialization
I have particular experience working with:
- Anxiety, Anger and Stress: Generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, stress and anger
- Depression & Mood Concerns: Low mood, lack of motivation, and emotional difficulties in general
- Relationship Issues: Communication, conflict resolution, boundary setting
- Work-Life Balance: Burnout, professional stress, work-related challenges
- Personal Growth: Self-esteem, identity exploration, goal setting, strategic thinking
- Also I work with people who have issues with the law (domestic violence, drinking and driving, theft under $5000, voyeurism, sexual harassment, and other problems)