Nalini Iype MC:AT, CCC, CATA

Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it. -Helen Keller

What has been bothering you? Are you feeling depressed? Anxious? Stuck in a rut? Choosing to go to therapy is not always an easy choice. But the fact that you are on this website means that you have taken the first step – congratulations! Now take a deep breath and imagine a life where you feel less anxious and ready to deal with the challenges that come your way. A life where your inner strength will shine through and your relationships support and sustain you. All of this is possible and I will work with you to achieve these and your other goals.

Maybe you just feel like you need someone to listen while you talk about work, your family or your current relationship. People come to therapy for a variety of reasons and nothing is too small to bring up in a session. You are worth being heard and it would be my privilege to do so.

Therapy is built on a relationship between the therapist and client. I will support you as you explore your feelings, but I may also challenge you to reflect on your life in a different way. It is a collaborative effort and we will work together as you move forward on your journey of healing.

My Style of Work

My clients have found it helpful to meet once a week or as often as they need to. We talk about current issues and presenting problems, but also explore how they may relate to a pattern of behaviour. All of this is done in a safe and comfortable environment, where confidentiality is considered a priority.

In addition to being a practicing psychotherapist, I am also trained with a specialization in Art Therapy. It is a way for clients to express themselves using art when words are not enough. You do not need any previous experience in art and it has been shown to be effective for people of all ages and for a range of issues.

Since I am trained in both talk and art therapy, you have the option to choose what you feel most comfortable with. Some clients choose only talk therapy, some choose only art therapy and some choose a combination of both. For more information about art therapy, please feel free to visit my website.

Children and Youth

I work a great deal with children and youth and specialize in helping them express what is troubling them. Since they don’t always have the vocabulary to verbalize their feelings, art therapy is particularly useful.  Children and youth who come for therapy may be dealing with issues such as the effects of their parents’ divorce, behavioural problems at school, or relationships with their peers. Please call if you are worried about your child and would like a free consultation.

Divorce

Although the statistic that one out of every two marriages ends in divorce means that it is a common occurrence, it does not make the experience any less painful. Going through a divorce can shake your trust in relationships and even in yourself. It may be especially difficult if there are children involved. Therapy may be a good option if you find it challenging to move forward with your life or if there was a major breach of trust such as with infidelity. However if you are only just considering whether divorce is right for you, it may be useful to try some couples counselling first. Whatever state your relationship is in, I can help you figure out what the next step is so that your life moves towards being happy and fulfilled.

Cultural Identity and Marginalized Groups

As a visible minority and first generation Canadian I have firsthand experience as to what it feels like to explore one’s cultural identity. Whether you struggle with minority issues of race, immigrant stress, or sexuality for instance, I will provide a non-judgmental space where you will be able to explore your feelings and be accepted for who you are.

My Background

I have a Master’s Degree in Counselling with a specialization in Art Therapy. I am accredited with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association as a Certified Canadian Counsellor as well as having professional membership with the Canadian Art Therapy Association.

I have worked in the social service field for over 10 years and have experience with clients from the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto, Planned Parenthood Toronto, Toronto District School Board and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. I also teach part time at George Brown College.

I am committed and passionate about the work I do. I truly believe that being a psychotherapist and art therapist is my calling and I look forward to sharing my expertise and passion in helping you.

Office Information

My office is located near Jane and Bloor in Bloor West Village, also close to High Park and the Junction. There is plenty of street parking and a Green P parking lot behind the building. I am also steps away from the Jane TTC subway station. I offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments and work with children, youth, adults and couples. Please do not hesitate to contact me for information and to set up a free consultation.