Samantha Szirmak, MPsy. R.P.
I'm so glad you're here, taking a moment for yourself.
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step. My role is to offer a warm, supportive space where you can slow down, feel seen, and begin to make sense of what you’re going through. Together, we can explore what feels heavy and move toward the growth and change you’re seeking, at a pace that feels right for you.
My Approach.
I work with adolescents and adults navigating a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, burnout, eating and body image issues, self-esteem and identity concerns, grief (both death and non-death loss), relationship struggles, perinatal and postpartum mental health, and difficulties with emotional expression or regulation.​
My approach is integrative and person-centred, which means I take time to get to know you — your story, background, and ways of being — so that therapy feels tailored and supportive to you. I encourage ongoing feedback throughout our sessions, believing that you hold inner wisdom about what feels right and when our work is on the right track.
In practice, I draw on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) within a trauma-informed and relational lens. At the heart of my work is the belief that authentic, attuned, and trusting relationships are deeply healing, and that the therapeutic connection itself plays a central role in the outcome and experience of therapy.
Background.
For over 10 years, I’ve supported adults and adolescents in mental health and educational settings. I hold a Master’s degree in Psychology from Adler Graduate Professional School, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from McGill University, and a Certificate in Mental Health and Addictions from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson).
I’m a member of the Ontario Psychological Association and the Canadian Psychological Association. Outside of my clinical work, I’m passionate about lifelong learning and regularly attend workshops and training to deepen and evolve my practice.
What to Expect.
​Each person’s therapy journey is unique. In our first session, we’ll talk about what brings you in and what you hope to gain from therapy. From there, we’ll work collaboratively to explore patterns, emotions, and the underlying roots of your difficulties. Together, we’ll help you deepen your self-awareness, strengthen your relationships, and reconnect with your own capacity for compassion, confidence, and resilience.
If you’re curious about starting therapy, I welcome you to reach out for a 15 minute free consultation to see whether we might be a good fit working together.