Santhia Akram, Intern, MA, MACP (Candidate)

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Psychotherapist Intern

When considering starting psychotherapy, you might feel nervous as you grapple with fears of judgment, vulnerability, and uncertainty about the process. You may wonder whether doing the challenging work of self-discovery and personal growth is worth the effort but at the same time, you feel stuck and want to change your life. It’s normal to feel unsure about where to start and whether the process will truly make a difference, yet gaining the courage to initiate the journey toward healing and growth demonstrates immense bravery.

In our sessions, I adopt a holistic and individualized approach that acknowledges and values the unique perspectives and diversity of experiences that each individual brings to therapy. Together, we delve into not just your personal concerns but also the broader social
influences shaping your experiences. My goal is to cultivate a sense of understanding and to promote client resilience and self-determination by demonstrating cultural sensitivity and utilizing a strength-based perspective while avoiding judgment and pathologization.

Ultimately, I aim to create a nurturing and inclusive space where you can comfortably practice being vulnerable and embark on a journey of authentic self-discovery. Through our development of a warm and open therapeutic relationship, we will work together to help you gain a better understanding of and develop your connection to yourself, others, and the world around you. We will also collaborate on developing plans to help you achieve your personal goals by cultivating your personal strengths.

Santhia is working towards her Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, having previously completed a Master’s degree in Sociology. Her academic background has deepened her understanding of important societal issues like race, class, poverty, sexuality, and gender, fostering a strong appreciation for diversity and intersectionality. In addition, Santhia’s experiences as an immigrant living in Toronto have deeply influenced her professional perspective as a psychotherapist. Her firsthand understanding of diverse cultural landscape enhances her ability to empathize with clients from various backgrounds, fostering a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment where clients feel understood and valued. Additionally, her resilience in overcoming challenges associated with both immigration and mental health have instilled in her a deep sense of empathy and compassion for individuals facing adversity, enabling her to draw upon her own experiences to help clients navigate through their difficulties and find strength.

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