I have always had a deep-rooted passion and unwavering drive to assist individuals in need. Growing up in a household with dedicated helping professionals, I was inspired by their fervor for their work and their eagerness to make a difference. While my abilities as a young child were naturally limited, I embarked on a path to emulate their impactful work. It started in 2001 when I initiated my volunteer efforts in retirement homes, extending to literacy programs from 2006 to 2007, and later supporting schools from 2007 to 2008.
I began my social work education back in 2008 when I enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Toronto Metropolitan University (Formerly Ryerson University) located in Toronto, ON. I earned my degree in 2013. Following graduation, I transitioned into a role as a Team Lead at the Learning Disabilities Association of Toronto, where I managed an engaging after-school program catering to the needs of youth.
In 2014, I embarked on my journey pursuing a Master of Social Work degree at Boston College located in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Throughout the duration of my academic program, I delved into evidence-based practices, as outlined below, honing my skills through hands-on experiences during two internship placements. My first internship was at a Day Treatment Program within a Psychiatric Hospital situated in Brookline, MA. Here, I dedicated my efforts to supporting adults grappling with acute mental health issues and substance addiction challenges. The clients I served faced a myriad of obstacles including anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, trauma, self-harming behaviors, and substance use disorders. Within this role, I was tasked with conducting thorough biopsychosocial assessments, devising personalized treatment plans, facilitating psycho-educational groups, and collaborating closely with a diverse team of healthcare professionals including nurses and psychiatrists.
During my time interning at a high school in Brighton, MA, I had the opportunity to work closely with youth facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, self-harming behaviors, bullying, trauma, as well as various difficulties related to school, family, and peer relationships. Throughout my internship, I conducted thorough psychosocial assessments, facilitated social skills groups, advocated for students' educational requirements, collaborated with a multidisciplinary team, and offered one-on-one counseling sessions to support the students in their journey towards holistic well-being.
Since graduating from Boston College in 2015, I have gained valuable experience working in various community-based settings. In 2017, I took the leap to establish my own private practice. Over the years, I have also collaborated with a group practice and served as an independent contractor for several sub-agencies.
Education and Certifications
Bachelor of Social Work; Ryerson University 2008-2013 (Toronto, ON)
Master of Social Work; Boston College 2014-2015 (Boston, MA) Clinical Stream
Certificate in Essentials of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy; Toronto Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis (TICP) 2020-2021 (Toronto, ON)
Professional Registrations:
I am registered in Good Standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and the Ontario Association of Social Workers
