Most importantly, You.
Healing and growth begins with you. Our job at MindSeed is to help you make that happen.
Second to you, your therapist is key. The relationship you have with your therapist is one of the most important factors leading to success. That’s why, at MindSeed we take great pride in having therapists who are committed to helping people bring about positive change.
Our Team
Here are the people from MindSeed that are fully committed to helping you.
Leadership & Trainers
Raha Mirian, M.A., RP
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With 15 years of training and clinical experience, Raha recognized the need for a place like MindSeed—a center where excellence in training and clinical care come together. Her dedication to continuous learning and advancing mental health care led her to create MindSeed.
A graduate of OISE, University of Toronto, Raha has specialized in complex trauma treatment through extensive training in psychodynamic, somatic, mindfulness, and DBT approaches, under leading experts. She holds an Advanced Certificate in Complex Trauma & Dissociation and Advanced Intensive Training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). She also completed a certificate in Psychoanalysis, with six years of mentorship from a senior psychoanalyst. Raha additionally holds two certificates in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
From 2015 to 2024, Raha was a faculty member at The Centre for Mindfulness Studies, where she facilitated groups and developed training workshops for mental health professionals. Her 20-year personal meditation practice deeply informs her teaching and consulting, enriching her work with both clinicians and clients.
As Director at a major mental health clinic in Toronto, Raha expanded the clinic into a prominent downtown facility, establishing the largest adult and adolescent DBT programs in Ontario. This accomplishment laid the groundwork for creating a thriving therapeutic environment at MindSeed.
At MindSeed, Raha combines her extensive training and compassionate care to foster a culture of excellence. Her mission is to ensure every client receives exceptional mental health care. Raha’s commitment to clinical excellence and continuous learning is the driving force behind MindSeed, making it a place where clients can truly thrive.
Clare Pain, MD, MSc., FRCPC.
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Dr. Clare Pain MD, MSc., FRCPC., D.Sc (Hons) is a Professor of Psychiatry at UofT and staff psychiatrist at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Pain has been one of the leaders for the progression in trauma treatment over the past 25 years. At MindSeed, she is a senior trainer and provides consultation. Dr. Pain is also on our advisory board, where she oversees and ensures best practices on our programs. She works at the Canadian Center for Victims of Torture for refugee mental health in Toronto, and at the new Mount Sinai Hospital partnership in indigenous mental health with the Community Mental Health Program and Addictions Program; a Division of Weeneebayko Area Health Authority.
She is founder and senior strategist of the Toronto Addis Ababa Academic Collaboration (TAAAC), an ongoing educational partnership between Addis Ababa University (AAU) and the University of Toronto initiated in 2003, working to strengthen educational capacity and sustainability in graduate training at AAU. In July 2014 she was awarded an honorary doctorate from AAU for her work to assist the development of psychiatry in Ethiopia.
Her clinical focus is the assessment and treatment of individuals including refugees, who continue to suffer from the complex effects of psychological trauma. She has lectured and taught on various aspects of psychological trauma including trans-cultural issues and increasingly on global mental health. She has published a number of articles and three books.
Leszcz, M., Pain, C., Hunter, J., Maunder, R., & Ravitz, P. (2015) Psychotherapy Essentials to Go: Achieving Psychotherapy Effectiveness. New York, United States: W. W. Norton & Company Inc;
Lanius, R., Vermetten, E., & Pain. (2010)The Impact of Early Life Trauma on Health and Disease: The Hidden Epidemic. Editors, C. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press;
Ogden P, Minton K, & Pain C. (2006) Trauma and the Body: A Sensorimotor Approach to Psychotherapy. New York, United States: W. W. Norton & Company Inc;
Eva-Marie Stern, M.A., RP
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Eva-Marie Stern earned her Master’s in Art Psychotherapy from Goldsmiths College, University of London. She returned to Toronto to co-found the Women Recovering from Abuse Program (WRAP), and later the Trauma Therapy Program, at Women’s College Hospital, where she led trauma-focused individual and group therapy for over 20 years. At MindSeed, she is a senior trainer.
In addition to her trauma-focused work, she has led art-based workshops for solid-organ transplant recipients, people who have experienced first-episode psychosis, patients in cardiac care, refugees and immigrants, people living in shelters, children in grade schools, government employees and healthcare professionals.
She is a fan of transformative teaching, and has developed several experiential seminars about trauma and its treatment, which she leads locally and internationally. An Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry (University of Toronto), and a Harvard Fellow in Art Museum-Based Medical Education, her recent publications include chapters on “How Trauma Impacts Memory” in Looking at Trauma: a Tool Kit for Clinicians (Pennsylvania U Press), and “The Visible Curriculum” in Health Humanities in Postgraduate Medical Education (with Shelley Wall, Oxford U Press). Finding ways to help students and colleagues grow through their own challenges – while helping their own clients grow – is totally her jam.
She maintains a private practice in psychotherapy, art therapy, and professional consultation at her Toronto studio-office, artandmind.
Andrew Spice, Ph.D., C. Psych.
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Dr. Andrew Spice (He/Him) is a clinical adult and adolescent psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. He is one of a small number of DBT-Linehan Board of Certification Certified Clinicians (TM), a designation that indicates his expertise in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). For over 13 years, Dr. Spice has provided DBT in hospitals, community mental health clinics, and private practice. He was a founder of the former Toronto DBT Centre from 2016 to 2021, and is currently the founder and clinical director of The DBT Clinic. Dr. Spice provides expert consultation and training on DBT to hospitals, community agencies, and other mental health support resources. His clinical research, which focuses on guilt and shame, has been published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presented at international academic conferences. Dr. Spice received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology (Law-Forensic specialization) from Simon Fraser University, and completed his predoctoral residency at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in the Borderline Personality Disorder and Sexual Behaviour Clinics. Dr. Spice provides treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm and suicidal behaviours, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, antisocial behaviours, and sexual behaviour problems. He treats adults and adolescents (aged 14 and older). Dr. Spice is committed to principles of anti-racism and anti-oppression in his clinical practice, and has extensive experience working with 2SLGBTQIA+ clients and a diverse array of racial identities.
Michelle Fischler, MSW, RSW, RP
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Michelle Fischler is a Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor through the Association of Sex Therapy in Ontario (ASTO) who earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Toronto in 2009. Michelle embarked on a career journey that initially led her to hospitals and community mental health settings, where she honed her skills and laid the foundation to open up her sex therapy private practice.
Throughout her career, Michelle has demonstrated a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding sexual concerns among individuals and couples. Having witnessed firsthand the pervasive impact of sexual shame on the most intimate facets of our lives, she recognizes its profound influence on our relationships with both ourselves and our partners.
Michelle adeptly integrates evidence-based research, psychoeducation, mindfulness practices, narrative therapy, attachment theory, and emotion-focused therapy for couples, all through an inclusive trauma-informed lens. This holistic approach allows her to craft tailored treatment plans that address the multifaceted nature of sexuality and cater to the diverse needs of her clients.
Recognizing the profound impact of sexual shame on mental and emotional well-being, Michelle spearheaded the GETSOME podcast in 2022, dedicated to destigmatizing sexuality and fostering open, honest conversations. Building on this initiative, in 2024, Michelle released her first sex education module and workbook called Unlearning Sexual Shame, where she aims to empower individuals to embrace healthy and shame-free sexuality.
Michelle brings a unique blend of engaging curiosity, a disarmingly humorous approach, and deep empathy to her work. Through her dedication to sex education, advocacy, and community engagement, Michelle Fischler is actively driving meaningful change in the field of psychotherapy.
Our Associates
Helen Khaleghi, M.A., RP
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In the heart of our therapeutic space, Helen is a dedicated psychotherapist specializing in trauma, committed to supporting adults in their journey towards recovery and self-discovery.
Helen has completed two Masters of Counselling Psychology. Throughout her career, Helen has supported clients in various settings including outpatient mental health centres and private practice, both locally and internationally.
With a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, Helen brings a holistic and integrative approach to her practice. These aren't just tools; they're pathways to understanding, transforming, and reclaiming your narrative.
Whether you're navigating the aftermath of trauma, seeking relief from anxiety, or addressing relationship challenges, Helen offers a collaborative journey where you are the expert of your experiences. Together, you’ll explore the terrain of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, fostering empowerment and self-understanding.
Helen believes in individual autonomy and the right to live peacefully and optimally. Beyond addressing the psychological aspects, she incorporates somatic approaches to consider the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
In your sessions, you'll find a safe, non-judgmental space where your experiences are met with compassion and understanding. Helen aims to create an environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely, fostering trust and collaboration on your journey towards healing.
Beyond her professional identity, Helen is passionate about fostering resilience and growth. Her commitment to ongoing learning ensures that her practice is informed by the latest developments in the field of psychotherapy.
Embark on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Take the first step; contact us to schedule a consultation. Together, you will navigate the path towards a more peaceful and optimal life.
Monica Pinto, B.Sc. (Psych), RP
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Monica is a Registered Psychotherapist who believes that embarking on the journey of therapy is a courageous act of self-care, seeking deeper insight into one’s life and fostering a meaningful connection with oneself. Monica provides a safe, compassionate, and collaborative space tailored to the unique needs of each individual, facilitating exploration and growth. She believes in the power of connection and the transformative potential of being truly seen and understood.
Monica's foundation in Clinical Psychology, earned in Brazil, speaks to the depth of her training and knowledge in the field. She completed a 5-year psychology program, which enabled her to work as a Psychologist in Brazil. During this time, she gained considerable experience, by addressing a broad spectrum of mental health issues. Throughout her career, she has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including community mental health centers, mental health inpatient facilities, and private practice. This journey has allowed her the opportunity to support clients with a diverse range of needs.
Monica completed a bridging program in Ontario for Internationally Trained Professionals, followed by a clinical practicum. She is consistently enhancing her skills through professional development to ensure her approaches are informed by the most up-to-date advancements in the field.
Monica’s therapeutic approach is relational psychodynamic and attachment-based, trauma-informed, and integrates mindfulness practices. Her training across various therapeutic modalities allows her to customize interventions according to each individual's unique journey, ensuring that every client receives the most effective and compassionate support aligned with their experiences and goals. This dedication extends to fostering genuine, empathetic dialogue, ensuring that every client feels heard and supported throughout their therapeutic experience.
Monica sees life as a rich mosaic of experiences with rooted origins, complemented by personal tales that interconnect through time. She understands that it is entirely natural to confront periods of doubt or solitude, and feeling overwhelmed or questioning one’s choices are common aspects of the human experience, impacting self-perception and life choices. Recognizing these complexities, Monica is committed to providing support tailored to the unique needs of each individual within a deeply personalized approach. She offers tailored psychotherapy to adults at every stage of life, fostering personal growth and emotional well-being in a supportive environment.
Monica provides therapy in English & Portuguese
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."
– Dr. Carl Rogers
Sayena Heidari, M.A., RP
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Sayena is a Registered Psychotherapist, who holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. Sayena’s approach to therapy is to create a space that feels safe, empathetic, and collaborative. She believes that every individual's journey is unique and deserves to be met with understanding and respect.
Sayena draws from a range of therapeutic modalities, including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Attachment Theory and Gestalt Therapy. She tailors her approach depending on each client’s needs and supports her clients to explore their concerns by maintaining a strength-based approach. In addition, she applies a trauma informed lens in her work with clients, and is deeply aware of the impacts of trauma on our mental health.
Over the past decade, Sayena has been working in community mental health agencies such as CMHA (Canadian Mental Health Association) and Psychotherapy Centres, where she gained extensive experience in assessments, therapy, and supporting individuals with diverse concerns. Sayena’s professional experience also includes working with clients experiencing depression/anxiety, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Bipolar disorder, concurrent disorders, and survivors of various forms of trauma.
Sayena feels privileged to be able to see the remarkable resiliency and healing potential in every client that she has worked with. She strongly believes in the power and capacity within each individual and strives to cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion in order for you to find balance and meaning in your life.
Crissie Wright, BSW, RSW
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Crissie is a registered Social Worker with the College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, and brings with her many years of experience providing psychotherapy.
Crissie has experience with a variety of treatment modalities to treat a wide range of presenting concerns for both adults and youth. Crissie's extensive clinical experience extends to working with people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use concerns and problem gaming/ gambling. She has worked in intensive therapeutic and case management roles, supporting clients struggling with Opiate use concerns, as well as life skills based housing programs. Crissie also has extensive group therapy experience, facilitating process groups, psychoeducational groups and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy skills groups.
Crissie works from a trauma-informed lens, and recognizes the courage it takes to reach out for support. She draws on Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to support her client’s in meeting their mental health related goals. Crissie also draws on the stages of change and motivational interviewing to meet clients where they are at in that moment and uses mindfulness techniques throughout her practice.
Crissie's calm and welcoming demeanor helps clients feel at ease to express themselves in a safe space.
Miranda McCormack, MEd, RSW
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Miranda is a bright and dedicated registered social worker with extensive experience working with people at their most vulnerable and difficult moments. Miranda has a Bachelor of Social Work from Dalhousie University, and a Masters of Education from the University of Calgary.
It is through a customized individual approach Miranda builds rapport and recognizes each individual's needs, and then works with them to create an appropriate treatment plan. Miranda draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Mindfulness in her practice to support clients.
Miranda’s compassion for vulnerable communities developed from working with LGBTQ+ youth, homeless youth and at-risk individuals into managing a residential treatment and healing program for survivors of human trafficking. Her experience includes working alongside clients as they experience dissociation, providing support for complex trauma and other complex mental health concerns. Miranda is dedicated to utilizing different treatment modalities with clients to further build upon their coping and life skills to best manage and work toward thriving in their everyday lives.
Miranda believes that everyone is the expert of their own life and approaches all clients with openness, dignity, and respect. Miranda believes it is very important to be up-to-date with research which includes teaching and training professionals new to the field of social work in the college setting.
Tatyana Bashkatova, MPsy, AAC, RP
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Tatyana Bashkatova is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and an Associate Addiction Counsellor registered with the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF), and is committed to ethical practice and ongoing professional development. Tatyana also holds a Master's degree in Psychology, and specializes in supporting individuals on their journey toward healing, growth, and a brighter future. With a profound commitment to helping clients overcome life's challenges, particularly those related to trauma, Tatyana's approach is deeply rooted in a trauma-informed perspective.
Tatyana draws upon a range of therapeutic modalities, including Gestalt Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Transactional Analysis, and Emotion-Image Therapy. Her goal is to empower clients to find their voice, navigate their emotions, and regain control of their lives. Her training in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy and Family Systems Therapy allows her to provide structured and effective guidance to enhance couples' connections. She believes that healthier and more fulfilling relationships are attainable and is dedicated to helping clients get there.
Tatyana's deep understanding of trauma extends to its relationship with addiction. She is dedicated to supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse and addictive behaviours, utilizing a compassionate and evidence-based approach to help clients break free from the cycle of addiction.
Tatyana believes in creating a safe and trust-based environment for her clients, regardless of age or relationship status, to explore their experiences. Her expertise in trauma therapy allows her to address the often-hidden wounds that can significantly impact one's life. She understands the profound and lasting effects of trauma and is dedicated to guiding clients through the healing process, helping them uncover the roots of their pain and ultimately find a path forward.
Clients' well-being is Tatyana's top priority, and she is honoured to be a part of their healing journeys.
Bita Hedayati, M.A., RP
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Bita is a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a member of the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP). She holds a master’s degree in psychology and a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Bita is a certified clinical traumatologist (TITC-CT) and a certified CBT practitioner, utilizing an eclectic approach in psychotherapy tailored to individual needs.
She integrates a range of therapeutic methods, including mindfulness, compassion-focused therapy (CFT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), somatic experiencing (SE), and solution-focused therapy (SFT), all grounded in a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and strength-based perspective. Bita has worked extensively with diverse populations, cultures, and ethnicities, focusing on adults and young adults. Her areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and personal growth. Her aim is to help individuals gain deeper insights into their experiences and connect with the present moment in a joyful and meaningful way.
Beyond her professional life, Bita has been practicing yoga for over 25 years, which has profoundly influenced her personal growth and therapeutic perspective. Bita believes that embracing vulnerability is key to growth, and that the dynamic nature of life invites us to learn how to "dance with its rhythm," bringing light from within to illuminate our path.
In her spare time, Bita enjoys long walks, stand-up comedy, and occasionally writing poetry. Here's one she would like to share with you:
“Close your eyes
And be still for a while
Ask yourself, “Who am I?”
By and by
When the calmness is high
In the emptiness of your sky
The inner whisper will reply …”
Sarah Siddiqui, M.Ed, RP
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Above all else, Sarah aims to help you feel comfortable and supported stepping out of your comfort zone. While working with them, you can expect a warm; non-judgmental; and approachable presence, with occasional doses of humour and irreverence.
Their clinical approach is eclectic, incorporating elements from Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Gestalt, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT). Sarah’s approach is grounded in attachment theory, and they strive to foster a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive space in their sessions with clients. Sarah’s work is affirming of clients who are queer, transgender, non-monogamous, involved with kink, and/or in sex work. They also have an interest in working with folks who want to reconcile their sexuality with their spirituality.
Sarah is currently an associate member of the Association of Sex Therapy in Ontario (ASTO). Before pursuing psychotherapy, they were a sex educator for 8 years, having worked as a peer health educator; an abortion counsellor; and at a feminist sex store. Their undergraduate education was in comparative world religions, theatre, and sexual diversity studies. This experience informs Sarah’s deep understanding of diversity and intersectionality, personal autonomy and agency, the importance of seeking greater meaning in life, and the value of pleasure.
No concern related to sex is too trivial for sex therapy, and it’d be Sarah’s honour to be someone you trust that part of your life with!
Keri-Ann Brunson, MSW, RSW
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Keri-Ann welcomes you to work in collaboration with her to deepen your understanding of your personal and relationship issues while enhancing your coping and resilience to tackle life's many challenges.
Keri-Ann is a Registered Social Worker with a Bachelor Degree in Social Work, a Bachelor Degree of Psychology and a Masters of Social Work. She has many years of experience providing psychotherapy services in hospital, community and private settings. She believes that meaningful and rewarding outcomes in therapy come from a strong therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the client. Her focus is on building a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate relationship to support this connection.
Keri-Ann uses a trauma informed strengths-based approach to support individuals, couples, and groups. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addictions, grief, trauma, PTSD, situational stressors and relationship dynamics. Her methods include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
With an eclectic approach, Keri-Ann tailor's treatment to each client's unique goals and circumstances, drawing from different methods to best support their needs.
Anastasia Maltseva, M.A.
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Anastasia is a compassionate and skilled mental health professional with over four years of experience helping adults and youth navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, isolation, trauma, and grief. She holds a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and is trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including attachment theory, psychodynamic therapy, Gestalt therapy, and Rogerian client-centered therapy. Additionally, Anastasia is expanding her expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Anastasia’s warm and empathetic approach makes her easy to connect with, creating a safe space for clients to explore their feelings and experiences. She focuses on helping individuals build on their strengths to improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or self-doubt, Anastasia is here to support you with personalized therapy that meets your unique needs. Her commitment to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care helps her clients feel understood and empowered on their journey toward healing.
Our Support Staff
Alix Ginsberg, MSc
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When you reach out to MindSeed, you can take comfort in knowing you’ll be greeted by Alix, with her warm and friendly disposition.
For years Alix has been dedicated to helping individuals with complex mental health issues. In a past life she’s worked with MindSeed’s founder, Raha, in supporting a DBT program at one of Toronto’s largest mental health clinics.
Alix also has a background as a Registered Dietitian, and is passionate about approaching health from a holistic lens. With experience in the world of research, she especially values the evidence-based approaches that are at the core of MindSeed’s practices.
Alix has helped grow MindSeed from seed to sprout, and beyond. She looks forward to “meeting you where you are” and being a compassionate presence in your journey.
Our Advisory Board
Experts in their fields that we’re continuously learning from.
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Dr. Clare Pain MD, MSc., FRCPC., D.Sc (Hons) is a Professor of Psychiatry at UofT and staff psychiatrist at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Pain has been one of the leaders for the progression in trauma treatment over the past 25 years. At MindSeed, she is a senior trainer and provides consultation. Dr. Pain is also on our advisory board, where she oversees and ensures best practices on our programs. She works at the Canadian Center for Victims of Torture for refugee mental health in Toronto, and at the new Mount Sinai Hospital partnership in indigenous mental health with the Community Mental Health Program and Addictions Program; a Division of Weeneebayko Area Health Authority.
She is founder and senior strategist of the Toronto Addis Ababa Academic Collaboration (TAAAC), an ongoing educational partnership between Addis Ababa University (AAU) and the University of Toronto initiated in 2003, working to strengthen educational capacity and sustainability in graduate training at AAU. In July 2014 she was awarded an honorary doctorate from AAU for her work to assist the development of psychiatry in Ethiopia.
Her clinical focus is the assessment and treatment of individuals including refugees, who continue to suffer from the complex effects of psychological trauma. She has lectured and taught on various aspects of psychological trauma including trans-cultural issues and increasingly on global mental health. She has published a number of articles and three books.
Leszcz, M., Pain, C., Hunter, J., Maunder, R., & Ravitz, P. (2015) Psychotherapy Essentials to Go: Achieving Psychotherapy Effectiveness. New York, United States: W. W. Norton & Company Inc;
Lanius, R., Vermetten, E., & Pain. (2010)The Impact of Early Life Trauma on Health and Disease: The Hidden Epidemic. Editors, C. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press;
Ogden P, Minton K, & Pain C. (2006) Trauma and the Body: A Sensorimotor Approach to Psychotherapy. New York, United States: W. W. Norton & Company Inc;
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Dr. Rebeca Gonzalez-Scherman is a New York City based clinical psychologist. She has been in private practice since 2001. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the Trauma Disorders Service Line at Sheppard Pratt Hospital in Baltimore, MD. In addition to her current practice, Dr. Gonzalez-Scherman consults for La Clinica Hispana at Yale Medical School in New Haven, CT. She addresses issues of race, ethnicity, gender, and identity through the lens of trauma. She holds a faculty position at the Center for Advanced Studies in Trauma and Dissociation (for the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation). She teaches mental health professionals nationally and internationally on the subject of complex trauma and dissociative disorders. Dr. Gonzalez-Scherman supervises both licensed psychologists and graduate-level interns on issues of complex trauma and on relational trauma, complexities of transference-countertransference configurations, enactments, and the use of psychoanalytic concepts to deepen the work of psychotherapy. Dr. Gonzalez-Scherman believes strongly in the integration of skills-based training/symptoms management with the profound work within the interpersonal field. Following relational psychoanalytic concepts, she adheres to a two-person psychology in understanding and utilizing what happens in the treatment relationship to further the work and create meaningful change for patients (and often for the clinician as well). Most recently, her area of interest is in the use of what she calls therapeutic courage in the consulting room.
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In 2007, Melody co-founded Plastic Mobile, a company that has built over 250 apps garnering over 2 billions dollars of revenue for clients like Cineplex, CIBC and Realtor. In 2015, the company was acquired by the sixth largest global communications company, Havas, and she was CEO of the Canadian division for 4 years. Melody is now also the CEO of a leading health-tech company.
As an influential leader in tech, and a recognized voice in the industry, Melody is passionate about bringing more women into senior leadership roles. In both 2018 and 2019, she was recognized as one of Canada’s top 100 most powerful women in the Tech and Trailblazer categories, and in 2017 she was awarded Canada’s top 40 under 40.