“ In order to live as beautifully as we can during our life, let’s do our best to bloom” - Hazuki Kudou

Hello, I’m Daniela,

As a therapist, my approach is warm, compassionate, and solution-focused. My goal is to help you deepen your self-awareness and remove the barriers to your well-being. I embrace a holistic perspective on mental health, exploring the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions of your story. My areas of interests include trauma processing, attachment styles, developmental needs, shadow work, and somatic supports for healing. With my knowledge in behavior change, mindfulness, and cognitive processing, I can guide you in befriending your brain, developing a more compassionate relationship with yourself, and adopting healthier lifestyle changes.

I am particularly mindful of the cultural factors that shape our experiences, and I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds. As an immigrant from Cuba, I bring personal insights into navigating intersecting identities and cultures, and I understand the impact this process has on our relationships.

In my free time, I have too many hobbies that I attempt to manage, such as latin dance, crochet, photography and bookbinding. I also find peace in meditation and reading by candlelight. I aim to live by the principles I value, believing deeply in the power of small, consistent steps toward growth and healing. I look forward to walking alongside you on this journey.

“ In order to live as beautifully as we can during our life, let’s do our best to bloom” - Hazu... Read More

Hello and welcome! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist committed to fostering a safe and affirming space for individuals belonging to marginalized groups and/or minority cultures. My passion lies in supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds as they navigate life’s challenges, explore personal growth, and cultivate resilience.

I recognize the unique experiences and strengths that BIPOC individuals bring to the therapeutic journey. I am committed to creating an inclusive and validating environment where your identity, heritage, and lived experiences are not only acknowledged but celebrated.

My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices with a culturally competent lens, allowing us to collaboratively explore and address the impact of systemic and cultural factors on your well-being. Whether you’re navigating issues related to identity, family dynamics, trauma, or daily stressors, I am here to support you in your journey towards healing and self-discovery.

It is my belief that every individual deserves a therapeutic experience that resonates with their unique background and values. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you, providing guidance, empathy, and encouragement as we navigate the path towards healing and resilience together.

Languages of Service: English, Urdu

Hello and welcome! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist committed to fostering a safe and ... Read More

Jasmeen Malhi is a first generation Sikh Canadian whose parents immigrated from Punjab, India. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Concordia University in Edmonton and her Masters in Counselling Psychology from City University of Seattle, Jasmeen’s professional practice displays her passion for community and giving back. Years of experience working with people of nearly every race, culture, and background has honed her desire to break down barriers and create an accessible space for her clients to focus on their mental health, particularly those of marginalized groups. Jasmeen is a fierce advocate, but is also fiercely funny. Her humor, love for her grandparents, and commitment to the Edmonton Oilers come together with her credentials to create a professional who is genuine and easy to talk to.

Jasmeen Malhi is a first generation Sikh Canadian whose parents immigrated from Punjab, India. Wi... Read More

Hello! My name is Ashani Linghanathan, and I’m an international undergraduate student at Concordia University of Edmonton, currently embarking on my 4th-year practicum placement with the BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre. I am originally from Sri Lanka and having spent most of my life in Dubai, UAE, and now studying in Canada; I bring a diverse perspective to my work in school and here at BIPOC. My journey into my major, Psychology, has always been driven by a deep curiosity about human behavior and the underlying reasons behind our actions. Choosing to major in this field was a natural fit for me, given my passion for understanding and supporting others. As a visible minority and a first-generation post-secondary international student, I deeply resonate with the values and mission of the BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre. I am eager to contribute to an environment that mirrors my own experiences while offering a supportive space for others with similar backgrounds. Creating safe and nurturing environments where individuals can truly grow and thrive is something I wholeheartedly believe in. My interest in working with BIPOC communities stems from my understanding of the unique challenges and experiences faced by minority groups. I am eager to learn more about the diverse experiences within our community and to offer meaningful support and empathy. On a fun note, I love exploring different cultures through food. I often experiment with recipes from around the world, leading to some fun (and sometimes unexpected) culinary creations in my kitchen. While I might not be a master chef, I always give it my best shot! I’m thrilled about the opportunity to make a positive impact and contribute to our community’s growth and well-being.

Hello! My name is Ashani Linghanathan, and I’m an international undergraduate student at Concordi... Read More

“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” – Pema Chödrön, The Places That Scare You: A Guide

Hello,

My name is JeeHye (pronounced G-Hey). I am an immigrant settler from South Korea. I am grateful to be able to live and work in Edmonton, a Treaty 6 Territory and Métis Nation of Alberta Region 4.

I started working in social services after receiving my BA in 2012. I have worked as a Registered Social Worker since 2015 in various areas, such as mental health, addictions, child welfare, home care, community outreach, forensic psychiatry, and education (Grades 1-12 and post-secondary).

I will do my best to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share freely and bravely. You can always change your mind about what you want to talk about or what you want to work on, and I am open to feedback if something is not working.

Together, we will address your worries, low moods, sleep disturbances, work/school stress, struggle with confidence, experiences of being othered, difficulty with relationships, anger/resentment, lack of motivation, feelings of not wanting to be here, and more. If you have ever experienced trauma, I can help you understand how it has impacted you in hopes of changing any unhelpful ways you may have learned to protect yourself.

I like to incorporate aspects of spirituality into my approach to counselling, focusing on how you connect with yourself and make sense of the world around you. As an immigrant, I understand the importance of culturally responsive care and make it a priority. I offer counselling in English and Korean.

Others have described me as relatable, witty, enthusiastic, humble, warm, spunky, vibrant, open-minded, curious, funny, thoughtful, cheerful, genuine, creative, and a shining light.

I have training in Narrative Therapy, EMDR, and CBT.

“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between... Read More

“Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” -Martin Luther King Jr.

I work with individuals of various backgrounds and BIPOC identities using a culturally informed approach, and I strive to create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for marginalized and racialized individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and to feel seen and understood. I have had the privilege of assisting BIPOC individuals struggling with racial trauma and grief, self-esteem, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, emotional abuse, relationship issues, transitions, immigration, and loss. I also incorporate spirituality, religion, and meditation to help heal.

Life can be overwhelming, even more so in a society where we feel unsafe and stigmatized for being who we are. Taking the first step by seeking out mental health support and starting to break the intergenerational trauma cycles is a hopeful action that does not have to be intimidating. I value meeting you where you are and working with your unique needs and experiences. I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship and strive to maintain a strong and collaborative relationship between myself and my client. I find it important to connect with you, learn with you, and empower you to find the resilience, healing, and growth you require.

I take an integrative, existential, culturally sensitive, and person-centered approach to therapy, incorporating a variety of modalities to help clients co-create meaning and promote healing. In the end, I aim to meet the needs of my clients by adapting therapy to their unique lived experiences.

“Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of sta... Read More

“May you have places and spaces where you don’t have to perform or pretend. May your authentic self find or create soft places to land” – Dr. Thema Bryant.

Welcome! I understand how difficult it may be to exist in spaces where you feel you can’t bring your authentic self. Whether it is because it hasn’t felt safe for you or because you are exploring your identity, navigating life transitions, or managing mental health concerns might impact your ability to do so. I strive to create a therapy space that invites, embraces, and uplifts all parts of you-mind, body, heart, & spirit to show up authentically. You can also expect me to show up as my authentic self, gentle, warm, collaborative, and compassionate.

I practice with a culturally responsive & socially just lens, which means I consider how cultural identity, values/beliefs, worldview, and positioning influence your overall well- being and interact within the therapy space. I hold various intersectional identities, such as being Tamil and a daughter of immigrants. These intersections and my lived experience impact my passion for supporting BIPOC communities to heal from culturally diverse challenges. My hope for you is to be seen, heard, & supported in accessing culturally responsive therapy services. I embrace cultural humility and a relational stance so therapy can be a safe(r) space for you to process life’s difficulties in a way that prioritizes trauma-informed, equitable, anti-oppressive and decolonial values. I offer free 15-minute consultation calls to determine if we would be a good fit to work together, and I would be honoured to get to know and support you if it feels right.

A little bit about me: I enjoy practicing yoga spending time outside and with my loved ones. I prefer sweets over savoury options, except I am a huge popcorn lover :)

Clients: individuals & families; children & teens (age 6+)

Areas of Support: Cultural Bereavement; Grief & Loss; Racial Trauma / Stress; Cultural-identity exploration or challenges; Attachment and social-emotional difficulties; Family of Origin concerns & intergenerational trauma; Relationship struggles

Approach to Therapy: I work from an integrative-eclectic approach drawing from Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy and Somatic Based-Therapies. 

Education and Training Master of Counselling in Counselling Psychology (Athabasca University); Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology, Minor in Sociology (University of Alberta); Hakomi Mindful Somatic Psychotherapy: An Experiential Introduction - 2023; 5 day Brief & Narrative Therapy Certificate – 2023; Body-Oriented Trauma Counselling Strategies- 2021; Introduction to Play Therapy - 2021; Working with Newcomers-Understanding Pre-Migration & Trauma - 2021; First Responder to Sexual Assault & Abuse Training – 2018

Professional Experience: I have been involved in the mental health field for the past decade in various roles, working with children, youth, adults, and families. My experience includes supporting children and youth’s development in a school, group, and community setting, anti- sexual violence advocacy work, supporting survivors of sexual violence and working with other professions to support young people who have experienced marginalization & abuse/neglect.

“May you have places and spaces where you don’t have to perform or pretend. May your authentic se... Read More

I believe we all have innate wisdom in our bodies that we sometimes require support to access. My role as an Acupuncturist is to help your body connect to its own intelligence around healing. My approach is to understand your individual history and the systemic contexts you live in that place your body under stress. Then, finding a treatment plan that helps your body find grounding, strength, and ease.

As your Acupuncturist, I value curiosity, growth, equity, compassion, and connection. Values which I bring into every session to build an attentive and caring relationship with you, so you can feel comfortable throughout the entire process.

My main areas of interest are musculoskeletal pain, sleep disorders, chronic disabilities, trans health, and mental health. However, acupuncture can also address digestive disorders, menstrual pain, headaches, allergies, and other conditions.

I am a Registered Acupuncturist with a Diploma from MacEwan University with a background supporting mental health projects in the non-profit sector and organizing community events for 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.

I believe we all have innate wisdom in our bodies that we sometimes require support to access. My... Read More

Hello,

My name is Matthew, and I am a Registered Dietitian.

I aim to provide culturally-informed nutrition counselling and education to foster a healthy relationship with food and promote overall wellness.

I am committed to helping clients develop and maintain nutritional practices that enable them to live healthier lives, respecting their racial and cultural identities, along with their unique lived experiences. By working with this compassionate team, I aim to contribute to a healing environment where everyone feels respected and supported on their wellness journey. I am passionate about empowering other by providing evidence-based information and thoughtful guidance. It would be an honour to help you make sustainable habit changes to take control of your health long-term.

Matthew is available to clients in Alberta and Ontario.

Hello, My name is Matthew, and I am a Registered Dietitian. I aim to provide culturally-informe... Read More

Hello! Thank you for visiting my space!

I hold the titles RSW & RTC and have been a Social Worker for over a decade. I also have completed the following certificates in Somatic Touch Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping Circles and currently completing my TRE certification and Somatic Experiencing certification.

I will meet you with where your nervous system is at, as our body is a messenger of held traumas, emotions, and memories. My role is to support you into understanding your body’s wisdom and allowing your body release in ways that feel safe for you.

As a Chilean/Peruvian descent, I am honored to be in an apprenticeship with my elder in Cusco, Peru as an Andean Medicine Woman (PA’QO) using my Earth-Based Therapy with my clients. I invite you to sit with me, with your ancestors, and heal the century old rage, anger and injustices that our lineage carries.

When you feel that life has handed you more than you can handle, it can be overwhelming. Whether you are grappling with anxiety or stress, or depression, you don’t need to suffer alone. Long-term struggles with anxiety have long-term effects. Slowly one comes to realize how it manifests, you may feel it in your quality of sleep, your relationships, in your body and feeling like your on auto-pilot. In reality, this is just your body trying to deal with constant stress, criticism, shame, guilt, and the feeling of ‘not good enough’.

I support those who are experiencing anxiety, dis-ease and relationship discord by looking at the family system; both present and intergenerational. I provide a collaborative and integrative approach by using Somatic Touch Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

My approach is warm, engaging and non-judgmental. My goal with you is that you will always feel empowered in our sessions. I endeavor to facilitate meaningful conversations and open heart exchanges. Allow me to sit with you through your emotions and create a space that feels safe in your body’s system. I look forward to working with you.

Hello! Thank you for visiting my space! I hold the titles RSW & RTC and have been a Social W... Read More

Our complex life experiences often shape how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I find people heal and experience the changes they hope for in the right environment, with the tools that work best for them and through connection to their authentic self. It is important that I create an open, compassionate, warm, non- judgemental and safe environment where clients feel supported and empowered to work on their goals. I recognize that accessing support is not easy, and I feel privileged and grateful to accompany clients on their healing journey.  

It is important to tailor our work together to best meet your needs. Therefore, my practice is client-centred and  I work from a trauma- informed, attachment-focused and strengths-based stance. I utilize Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy.

I am a Registered Social Worker and have worked with diverse populations over the years. My areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress and burnout, interpersonal/ relationship difficulties, adoptions, infertility, life and career transitions and cultural and intergenerational difficulties. I am able to offer services in English and Punjabi. 

Gurkirat

Our complex life experiences often shape how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I f... Read More

Adebayo Chris Katiiti is a dedicated therapist focused on supporting individuals from diverse and marginalized backgrounds. With a culturally informed, anti-oppressive approach, Adebayo creates brave-safe, compassionate spaces where clients can explore their experiences. He has worked with 2SLGBTQ+ newcomers, refugees, and transgender individuals, offering support in areas like mental health, settlement services, and social justice.

Adebayo uses a multicultural, decolonial, and liberational approach, integrating narrative therapy, meditation, and ancestral healing practices to promote wellness and empower clients on their journeys of self-discovery and healing.

Adebayo Chris Katiiti is a dedicated therapist focused on supporting individuals from diverse and... Read More

Shannon Cardinal (she/her) Registered Social Worker

I want to acknowledge all our ancestors on the other side who continue to guide us as we walk on Mother Earth. It is with our ancestors that we must give thanks always for being here.

Tansi! Tawaw! Hello! Come in! I am a Cree/Métis woman (nehiyaw iskwew) that lives on Treaty 6 Territory. It is the traditional unceded territory of the Cree, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux and Nakota Sioux. Also, home to many Métis and Inuit members who call these lands home.

I specialize in working from a trauma-informed practice from an Indigenous perspective rooted in culture and ceremony teachings from my Elders and family that I have had the honor of learning from and continue to learn. I also have gained much knowledge and practical skills with my educational completion of programs that I have obtained over the last two decades that have focused primarily on empowering individuals through culturally informed practice. I also work from a two-eye-seeing approach that is client-centered and focuses on walking alongside you on your journey of personal growth while providing emotional support.

I am a Registered Social Worker and have completed my Master of Social Work – Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency from the University of Toronto in 2022. The program allowed me to go deeper into understanding the importance of weaving together traditional teachings with evidence-based modalities to support individuals on their wellness journeys. The majority of my work has been with child protection, working with high-risk youth, and supporting families of various populations and backgrounds. I am also a certified yoga instructor (200 RYS Integrative Yoga Therapy and 200 RYS South Okanagan Yoga Academy) and all my experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the unique needs of all people.

We will work together to focus on your connection to your personal, cultural, and spiritual well-being through self-awareness and personal skills through our time together while honoring and respecting your trauma and the trauma of your ancestors. While providing space for you to grow wholistically (mind, physically, emotionally, and spiritually) we work on creating your bundle to take with you. I look forward to creating and sharing a healing space with you to help you create balance wholistically in our time together. In our time we can use prayer, meditation, song, yoga, and conversation to create a space to let go. My role will be to help support and serve you to not only find balance but to create a sacred space that you can create and take with you when you are done with the work.

“When we walk to the edge of all the light, we have to take a step into the darkness of the unknown, we must believe that one of two things will happen. There will be something solid for us to stand on or we will be taught to fly” – Patrick Overton

Rate: 150 per 50 minute session; couples 200 per 50 minutes session

Models of Practice: Indigenous Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Anti-Oppressive lens, Strength-Based Approach,

Clients: Children, teens, young adults, adults, and couples.

Shannon Cardinal (she/her) Registered Social Worker I want to acknowledge all our ancestors on t... Read More

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Excellence. Resilience. Courage. These are the three qualities essential to my work.

Hey, my name is Suhuur Faisal Abdi. I’m one of the new graduate interns at the BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre. My mother named me according to the Somali tradition, which means no accented characters can be involved in the naming process. Even in the absence of accents, there is still a particular style in which my name is meant to be expressed, and I will teach it to you when we meet. It is pretty cool, if you ask me!

I am a final year postgraduate student pursuing a master’s degree in counselling psychology. My journey began in the addiction space and then slowly transcended into the counselling field. Life is full of surprises. I would not have imagined that I would be sitting here writing this letter to you a year ago. But this is a story of detours, one of dreams derailed and dreams discovered. It is a long story, but a good one. I would love to tell you more about it in person. My clinical practice utilizes an integrative approach, which includes a combination of non-judgmental client-centered care, solution-focused brief therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Altogether, I am interested in understanding how the application of Healthy Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLCs) (e.g., exercise, self-care, time in nature) can be used to modify, or even greatly reduce, instances of depression, anxiety, suicide, and other psychosomatic disorders and related disturbances in young adult populations. My areas of interest include supporting racialized clients experiencing substance use challenges, academic issues, and self-esteem problems.

At the BIPOC Healing and Wellness Centre, I aim to expand inclusive and equitable mental health opportunities for racialized adults and young people. I share in the vision of social responsibility. I enjoy championing students and being in community with others. The realm of academia is often tumultuous and uncharted. Our lives outside of academia can be even more so. Nevertheless, there is support available. Our plans sometimes work out differently than how we thought they would. And that is frustrating. However, I want you to know that, despite such setbacks, there are always roundabout ways to get to where you want to go in life, provided that you believe in yourself.

Excellence. Resilience. Courage. These are the three qualities essential to my work. Hey, my nam... Read More

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Alissa Takahashi (they/them) Queer and Gender Diverse Education Consultant

Hello! My name is Alissa Takahashi. I am a mixed race teacher here on Treaty 6 Territory, with a passion for inclusive education. I am extremely excited to be part of a team that upholds, uplifts, and centres the experiences of BIPOC community members. As a neurodivergent, nonbinary, lesbian of colour, I understand the unique challenges, joys, and barriers that come from having an intersectional identity.

As the Queer and Gender Diverse Education Consultant, I am excited to offer consultations, educational workshops/professional development, and personalised supports for families. My work is centred around meeting you where you are at, without judgement. I understand that every person is on their own unique journey when it comes to understanding and embracing 2SLGBTQIA+ topics, and it is an honour to hold that space with you.

When I am not working, you can find me crocheting (amigurumi), playing the guitar, or reading with my wife.

My areas of focus include:

Auditing current practices and identifying areas for growth and improvement

Understanding and demystifying 2SLGBTQIA+ terminology and identities

Supporting families and individuals through coming out and medical/social transition

Anti-racist and culturally inclusive practices and understanding

Alissa Takahashi (they/them) Queer and Gender Diverse Education Consultant Hello! My name is Ali... Read More

Reena Samra (she/her) Founder and Director, Registered Social Worker

Welcome! I am a trauma therapist with culturally informed, anti-racist and intersectional feminist values. I would be honoured to walk through life’s difficulties with you through creating a trusting relationship. We can process life experiences, develop your unique identity, explore values, and set boundaries. Through being more compassionate to yourself, we can build your self worth and heal childhood wounds. We can heal intergenerational trauma so that you can come into your authentic self. We can work together to figure out who you are, and how to operate in a world that is not always made for us, while also learning to heal in relationships and in community. I work holistically to support folks to deepen their connections to their mind, body, soul, spirit, emotions and community. I am uniquely tuned in to how systems of oppression and our surrounding environments can harm us and our mental health as racialized people with intersectional identities and I strive to bring a social justice oriented, anti-oppressive and systemic perspective to mental health. I care deeply about creating safer spaces that empower BIPOC mental health.

After working in social work for the last decade, I shifted to trauma counselling to do more in-depth work with my clients around meaning-making and creating purpose out of life. As a social worker, I became more aware of the gaps in the system that left many voices and experiences unheard and unsupported. I wanted to create more culturally informed therapeutic services that center those voices that are not often heard. I wanted to create more access to healing for our communities and promote spaces where racialized people can take up more space and be fully ourselves.

My journey into social work and then into counselling was very personal. I know what it’s like to suffer and experience oppression and barriers to mental health support; going through my own trauma inspired me to support others who are going through a similar experience. I aim to bring this holistic perspective into my work and to continue listening and learning from the community.

I specialize in supporting folks with healing from racism, racial trauma and racial grief. Other specialties include newcomer, immigrant and refugee mental health; sexual violence; grief and loss; childhood abuse; complex trauma and PTSD; LGBTQ2S; neurodiversity; trauma-informed yoga and meditation; somatic therapy; spirituality; culturally safe therapy.

We will not heal the wounds of racial trauma in a world that continues to traumatize us. Still, we can work to feel empowered in our lives and to honour our intersectionality. This is a continual work in progress, and there is no perfection to strive for, only compassion for the multidimensional aspects that make us who we are.

You can expect me to meet you with compassion, empowerment, warmth, authenticity, humor and gentleness. We can collaborate to create tailored therapy for you. It would be an honour to get to know who you are.

Types of therapy: Decolonizing Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Culturally Sensitive Therapy, EMDR Therapy, The Grief Recovery Method, Trauma-informed Yoga and Meditation, Intersectional Feminist Therapy, Anti-oppressive Practice, Compassion Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Somatic Therapy

In my free time, you will find me travelling (I have been to over 20 different countries so far), attending live music shows, spending time in nature, doing yoga and meditating, exploring the city with friends and family, enjoying anything interior design, eating vegetarian food, getting tattoos and piercings, or being a fur baby mom to my two dogs!

Reena Samra (she/her) Founder and Director, Registered Social Worker Welcome! I am a trauma the... Read More