Search
Close this search box.

Our Team

Our team has been carefully selected for their expertise and for exemplifying the values and vision of the clinic and those we serve. We provide a high standard of care supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes: psychologists, dietitians, social workers, psychotherapists, and a psychiatrist – all of whom have extensive training in a variety of evidence based treatments.

Dr. Anita Federici PhD, CPsych, FAED (she/her)

Clinical Psychologist, Owner, Founder

Read bio...

Dr. Anita Federici PhD, CPsych, FAED (she/her)

Clinical Psychologist, Owner, Founder

Dr. Anita Federici, PhD, C.Psych, FAED, is a clinical psychologist, educator, and Founder of The Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation. She is internationally recognized for her contributions to the treatment of eating disorders, DBT, trauma, and multidiagnostic health presentations, with a particular focus on translating evidence-based interventions into accessible, person-centred systems of care.

Dr. Federici serves as Adjunct Faculty at York University and as an Expert Clinical Educator with the Ontario Provincial Eating Disorders Training Program. She provides consultation, implementation support, and advanced clinical training to multidisciplinary teams and organizations internationally, with expertise in DBT-informed programming, system development, team capacity-building, and complex eating disorder presentations.

She is co-author of Treating Eating Disorders with DBT: The MED-DBT Protocol (Guilford Press, 2026), a treatment model integrating dialectical behaviour therapy with comprehensive eating disorder care for high-acuity and complex presentations. Her work has been presented internationally and published in peer-reviewed journals and invited book chapters.

Dr. Federici is widely recognized for her collaborative, engaging, and compassionate approach to teaching and leadership. Across clinical, academic, and community settings, she has delivered more than 400 invited lectures and workshops focused on evidence-based care, implementation science, clinician development, and sustainable systems transformation.

In 2026, she received the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED) Leadership Award in Clinical, Educational, or Administrative Service, recognizing sustained international contributions to advancing the treatment and well-being of individuals with eating disorders through innovation, education, and systems leadership. She is also a Fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders.

Rachel Gerow, MA, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist, Clinical Director

Read bio...

Rachel Gerow, MA, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist, Clinical Director

Rachel is a Registered Psychotherapist and the Clinical Director at The Centre for Psychology & Emotion Regulation. She is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and earned her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2018, completing her clinical practicum under the supervision of Dr. Anita Federici. Since that time, Rachel has been a dedicated member of the Centre’s team, contributing her expertise to support both clients and her fellow team members. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University.

As Clinical Director, Rachel oversees the delivery of high-quality therapeutic care at the Centre. She is committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for both clients and clinicians, ensuring that the Centre’s programs meet the diverse needs of the community. Rachel works closely with her team to integrate evidence-based care with a compassionate approach to provide a comprehensive and client-centered experience.

Rachel has training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and specializes in working with emotion dysregulation, eating disorders, PTSD, and mood and anxiety disorders. She also facilitates DBT Skills Groups to help individuals develop effective coping strategies to build a life worth living.

Born and raised in the Midland region, Rachel grew up on the waters of Georgian Bay and fell in love with the area. She is grateful to be able to practice the work she loves in the place she calls home.

Amanda Barron, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Read bio...

Amanda Barron, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Amanda is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She holds a Master of Social Work from Carleton University, a Bachelor of Social Work from Laurentian University, and a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Diploma from Canadore College.

With over 25 years of experience, Amanda is passionate about supporting individuals navigating trauma and PTSD, eating disorders, body image concerns, mood and anxiety challenges, and emotional dysregulation. She has a special interest and advanced training in supporting parents and families managing suicidality, trauma, and eating disorders. Her work is grounded in ongoing, specialized training and a 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training certification, which informs a holistic, mind–body approach to care.

Amanda’s work focuses on helping individuals and families rebuild trust, strengthen self-confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change. She supports clients in setting limits, connecting with their values, and navigating relationships and daily life with greater clarity and intention.

Her approach integrates evidence-based therapies including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE), within a collaborative, flexible, and non-judgmental framework.

Amanda offers a warm, compassionate space to reconnect with yourself and your inner wisdom. She helps clients increase self-awareness, develop self-compassion, regulate intense emotions, shift unhelpful patterns, and build more fulfilling, connected lives.

Amanda prioritizes self-care and with her love of nature she can often be found lost on the Simcoe County Mountain Bike Trails.

Megan Bolt, MA, (she/her)

Psychological Associate (supervised practice)

Read bio...

Megan Bolt, MA, (she/her)

Psychological Associate (supervised practice)

Megan completed her Masters in Applied Psychology from Laurentian University in 2019. She is currently under the supervision of Dr. Federici as she works towards registration with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree (honours) in Psychology from Laurentian University. Megan completed her clinical practicum under the supervision of Dr. Albiani in the Outpatient Addictions and Gambling Program at Health Sciences North in Sudbury.

Megan has training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E), Radically-Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO-DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (CBT-AR). She specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders and emotion dysregulation.

She provides a non-judgemental and client-centered approach that focuses on individual strengths and motivational factors. Megan is passionate about understanding client experiences, offering a supportive, compassionate and collaborative environment where curiosity, learning, and self-exploration are celebrated and encouraged.

Megan was born in Newfoundland and has lived in the Georgian Bay area for nearly all her life. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, playing guitar and taking walks in nature with her golden retriever/bestie Archie. Megan is proud to be working in the community as she continues to learn and grow as a professional.

Fayssoux Bombardier, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Read bio...

Fayssoux Bombardier, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Read Bio...

Fayssoux is a seasoned clinician with extensive experience in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD. With a passion for supporting military, veteran and first responder personnel, she has dedicated a large part of her career to providing specialized treatment to those who have served. She integrates an emotion-focused lens into her practice, believing in the power of addressing underlying emotions to facilitate healing and resilience.

With over 20 years of experience in the field including within hospitals, family systems work, community clinics, and social service settings Fayssoux brings a wealth of understanding and skill toward inspiring mental wellness. She completed her BSc in Psychology and Women’s Studies while working in various youth and family program initiatives on a military base in Nova Scotia. Following that she obtained a Masters Degree in Social Work in Ontario and keeps current with numerous additional clinical trainings and certifications of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative, Attachment models, Solution Focused and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques. She is also an experienced College instructor, and facilitator who has taught mental health awareness to both clinical, corporate, CAF and Veteran environments tailored to meet the needs of each unique group.

Her passion is therapy and the stability and peace of mind that can come out of this important work. Together with her partner, she is navigating the challenges and joys of raising a young family, exploring the beauty of the great outdoors and taking time to enjoy the simple things in life.

Rosie Collins (she/her)

Finance Officer

Read bio...

Rosie Collins (she/her)

Finance Officer

Rosie joined the Centre for Psychology in November 2020, bringing a background in office administration within the hospital and medical practice setting.

Rosie has a passion for listening and connecting with people and believes that helping clients feel comfortable and at ease begins from their very first phone call.

In her free time, you can find Rosie outdoors, on horseback, exploring the many forests and trails around her home, or planning her next camp trip. Rosie lives with her family in the beautiful interior of BC. They share their hearts and home with several pets including 2 horses, 3 dogs, 3 cats and some chickens.

Holly Dickinson, RD, RP (she/her)

Registered Dietitian & Registered Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Holly Dickinson, RD, RP (she/her)

Registered Dietitian & Registered Psychotherapist

Holly Dickinson started working as a Registered Dietitian in the area of eating disorders 18 years ago after she obtained her bachelor of science nutrition degree from The University of Western Ontario and
dietetic internship at The University Health Network.

Holly enjoys the rewards and challenges of working in mental health, specifically eating disorders. Holly uses a weight-inclusive approach, helping clients recognize and learn the skills needed to improve and
normalize their relationship with food.

Soon into her career, Holly recognized the importance of having a strong therapeutic background as a Dietitian working within the field. She recognized that although she was working as a Dietitian, a lot of
her time was spent offering emotional support through nutrition counselling. She decided to go back to school as she wanted to expand her counselling skills.

Holly completed her Master of Education in Counselling Psychology at OISE, Toronto, Ontario. She then applied for membership at the College of Psychotherapists and is pleased to say she is a Registered Psychotherapist, as well as a Dietitian. Holly has experience working in both an inpatient and outpatient
setting and has completed extensive training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). She has experience running and co-facilitating a number of groups, including CBT and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. She
has experience working individually with clients using Motivational Interviewing techniques in order to help clients meet goals and facilitate behaviour change. During her schooling, Holly completed a
practicum working in an individual CBT-based relapse prevention program for those who just completed intense treatment and working on maintaining their recovery goals.

Holly is thrilled to be a member of The Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation team.

Dr. Niki Dignard PhD, CPsych (she/her)

Clinical Psychologist

Read bio...

Dr. Niki Dignard PhD, CPsych (she/her)

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Niki Dignard received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Windsor and is a registered clinical psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She trained in a variety of settings during her graduate studies and completed her pre-doctoral residency at the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH) in the Borderline Personality Disorder and Intensive Day Treatment Programs.

Dr. Dignard’s graduate research was focused on body image and eating disorders and reflects her view of mental health: that wellness is about more than the absence of symptoms. Drawing on research investigating positive body image, embodiment, and intuitive eating, her doctoral research was focused on exploring yoga as a novel intervention for individuals with eating disorders to help them move from a state of tolerating their body to feeling connected with and empowered by it.

Dr. Dignard specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and related conditions. She draws on her extensive training to use a variety of evidence-based approaches including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), mindfulness, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and specialized adaptations of these.

Dr. Dignard believes that the right approach should be based on evidence and should reflect the individual and their unique challenges and strengths. She has been known to do a happy dance to celebrate her client’s growth in treatment and believes that her job is to work her way out of having a job. She views clients as experts in their lives and enjoys working with them to help explore what it means to be alive and to learn the skills to build a life that is joyful and feels worth living (even if it sometimes hurts).

When she is not working, Dr. Dignard loves making a mess of the kitchen while trying new recipes, running, and snuggling with her two rescue cats (though only one of them actually likes snuggles).

Paul Federici (he/him)

Marketing & Social Media Lead

Read bio...

Paul Federici (he/him)

Marketing & Social Media Lead

Meet the newest edition to our team, Social Media Coordinator Paul Federici! Paul (he/him) has an extensive background in social services and received his Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University at Buffalo in 2010. In addition to his clinical background, Paul also completed a Public Relations Post Graduate Certificate from Niagara College and has experience with web design, graphic design, marketing strategy and creative writing. With his diverse background Paul is natural fit for the role of leading our online presence and we’re very excited to have someone with his skillset on the team!

Outside of his role with the team, Paul is long-time musician and singer/songwriter, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete, and enjoys being active with his adopted dog Billy. As a new resident of Midland, Paul is excited to be part of the community and is looking forward to experiencing everything Georgian Bay has to offer.

Dr. Healey Gardiner, PhD, CPsych (she/her)

Clinical & Health Psychologist

Read bio...

Dr. Healey Gardiner, PhD, CPsych (she/her)

Clinical & Health Psychologist

Dr. Healey Gardiner is a Clinical and Health Psychologist operating virtually from Thunder Bay, ON. Dr. Gardiner received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Windsor and received her license for practice with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario in 2024. Dr. Gardiner is currently licensed for autonomous practice in clinical and health psychology with adults. Additionally, Dr. Gardiner is providing services to adolescents under the supervision of Dr. Jasmine Mahdy.

Dr. Gardiner specializes in the assessment and treatment of adults and adolescents presenting with eating disorders, PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and related conditions or concerns. She has training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). Dr. Gardiner views herself as an integrative clinician and takes a client-centered approach with an awareness of diverse needs. Using evidence-based approaches, she has worked with diverse client presentations including LGBTQ2sIA+, ethnicity, and disability. Most recently, she completed her pre-doctoral residency at The Ottawa Hospital working in The Rehabilitation Centre and the Regional Centre for Eating Disorders.

A born-and-raised resident of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Dr. Gardiner is thrilled to provide virtual services while living in the Northwestern Ontario city that she calls home. When not working, she can usually be found spending time outside in nature, usually accompanied by her dog.

Carla Katsuno MACP, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Carla Katsuno MACP, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist

Carla is a Registered Psychotherapist, having completed her Master of Arts in Counselling from Yorkville University. She is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Toronto as well as a Certificate in Addictions Treatment and Prevention from Georgian College. Carla’s previous clinical experience is derived from working as a counsellor at an in-patient addiction treatment centre, within a hospital setting and currently as an Associate at the Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation. Carla has received intensive training in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), as well as comprehensive training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy Prolonged Exposure (DBT PE) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). She approaches her work with empathy, non-judgement and compassion and believes that therapy is a collaboration between people working together toward a common goal. Carla has experience working with a broad spectrum of clients including first responders and their families. She specializes in working with emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, PTSD and eating disorders. Carla also has extensive experience as a presenter and trainer, having been a Master Trainer with The Mental Health Commission of Canada in the past.

Rosalyn Kieft, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Rosalyn Kieft, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist

Rosalyn Kieft is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers & Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). She completed her Masters of Social Work with the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Social Work with McMaster University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English with McMaster University as well.

Rosalyn knew at a young age that she wanted to help others, and her lived experience & practical education have allowed her to do this for over ten years now. With a background in youth work, interpersonal trauma and addictions counselling, she now specializes in providing trauma treatment to specific populations including veterans, first responders, and members of First Nations communities.

To provide her clients with a variety of options for trauma treatment, Rosalyn is a certified provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and is an EMDR-trained clinician. She has extensive training in multiple therapeutic approaches including: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems therapy for trauma (IFS), Attachment-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.

In addition to providing trauma treatment, Rosalyn provides emotion-focused and trauma-informed couples’ therapy, having been trained in Level 1 of the Gottman Method Couples Therapy. She is a registered provider with Medavie Blue Cross and the Non-Insured Health Benefits program. Rosalyn also enjoys providing consultation, training, and workshops to clinicians and organizations on a variety of topics including: facilitating trauma groups, providing individual trauma therapy, working with veterans and first responders, managing personal burnout levels, and more. Rosalyn provides consultation and supervision to masters-level social work students and qualifying psychotherapists as well.

Outside of work, Rosalyn prioritizes self-care and time with family. You can find her reading, playing roller derby, or taking her rambunctious dog Stevie out for adventures on the water.

Samantha Kittell, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Read bio...

Samantha Kittell, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Samantha is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. With over 7 years of dedicated experience in social services, Samantha has had the privilege of working across diverse settings, including community mental health agencies and private practice. These diverse professional experiences have provided her with the opportunity to assist individuals facing a wide array of challenges.

Samantha has undergone comprehensive training in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She has also received specialized training in trauma-focused interventions such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Furthermore, Samantha has pursued additional training in the treatment of eating disorders, utilizing modalities such as CBT, DBT, and FBT.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Samantha treasures her role as a mother. She deeply values the time spent with her family and prioritizes maintaining balance through her own self-care routines.

Samantha is dedicated to empowering individuals to discover their inner strengths and make meaningful life changes. Her goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported on their path toward healing and self-discovery.

Cortney Lacroix, MACP, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Cortney Lacroix, MACP, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist

Cortney completed her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. She is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Cortney has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Human Kinetics Concentration in Intervention and Consultation from the University of Ottawa.

Cortney has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She approaches her work with empathy, non-judgement and collaboration. Cortney has a range of clinical interests including eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, and emotion regulation.

Outside of work, Cortney enjoys spending time with her family, and friends and being outside.

Kari Loyst MA, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Kari Loyst MA, RP (she/her)

Registered Psychotherapist

Kari is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She completed her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University.

She collaborates with clients to cultivate meaningful change, drawing from a compassionate, trauma-informed approach honouring each person’s unique lived experience. By incorporating narrative and strength-based strategies, she supports clients in navigating grief, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life transitions, helping them find meaning and strength amid life’s challenges.

Kari is a certified Cognitive Processing Therapy provider (CPT for trauma and PTSD). She has received training in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), DBT Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), and MED-DBT (for eating disorders), as well as Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E for eating disorders). She has also completed Levels 1 and 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training.

Outside working hours, photography, hiking, and a profound love of nature keep Kari curious and inspired.

 

Saba Malik OT Reg. (Ont.) (she/her)

Occupational Therapist

Read bio...

Saba Malik OT Reg. (Ont.) (she/her)

Occupational Therapist

Saba is an Occupational Therapist registered with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO). She earned her Master of Science (Occupational Therapy) and Bachelor of Health Sciences degrees from McMaster University. She is currently also an Assistant Clinical Professor (Adjunct) in McMaster University’s OT Program, and is actively involved in supporting students with navigating problem-based learning. Saba has approximately five years of experience supporting individuals and families of those with eating disorders, in both community and hospital settings. She currently works as a Mental Health Clinician in the Child/Adolescent Eating Disorders Program at North York General Hospital.

She has training in Family-Based Treatment (FBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT-E), and Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT). She is committed to lifelong learning, and continuously seeks out opportunities for professional development and training. Through her work and training, she has developed a deep appreciation for the complexity of eating disorders and the need for different care pathways for those recovering from this illness.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family & friends, travelling, trying new foods & cuisines, and being an avid reader!

Saba is thrilled to be joining the team at The Centre for Psychology & Emotion Regulation!

Jodi Oschefski (she/her)

Office Manager

Read bio...

Jodi Oschefski (she/her)

Office Manager

As a dedicated and highly organized Office Manager, Jodi brings a warm, team-oriented approach to keeping the workplace running smoothly. With years of experience managing office operations, coordinating schedules, and supporting staff, Jodi is known for creating a positive and efficient work environment.

Outside of the office, Jodi is a proud parent to two wonderful daughters and values quality time spent with family and friends. A passionate sports enthusiast, she enjoys staying active, whether it’s watching a game or getting involved in local athletic events. Balancing professionalism with a personal touch, Jodi is committed to both career excellence and a fulfilling life beyond work.

Anita Maria Pudlik MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Read bio...

Anita Maria Pudlik MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Anita has worked in hospitals in the GTA for almost 30 years. Over the past several years, she has been a therapist within the Eating Disorders Program. She has also previously assisted persons who have experienced traumatic injuries as well as individuals living with chronic illness.

Anita holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Toronto as well as a Master of Arts (Sociology) degree. She has extensive training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) from the School of Continuing Education, University of Toronto, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and is a Level 1 Therapist in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy.

Anita has maintained a daily mindfulness and meditation practice for 25 years and has learned from many wonderful teachers – Jon Kabat-Zinn, Kristin Neff, Mark Coleman, Susan Woods, and Bill Knight to name a few. Anita has experience teaching mindfulness while applying some empirically tested mindfulness-based protocols.

In therapy, Anita wants to offer warmth and compassion, clarity of thought and precision of language, practical skills and a sense of connection, full acceptance, and a strong invitation for change.

Anita likes any type of physical activity (cleaning the house included) and any type of learning.

Matthew Richardson, MA (Cand.), Hon. BA, RP (Qualifying) (He/Him)

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Read bio...

Matthew Richardson, MA (Cand.), Hon. BA, RP (Qualifying) (He/Him)

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Matt is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) completing his clinical training as part of The Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation. His background in Criminology and Restorative Justice has shaped a deep respect for the power of human connection and the capacity for change.

He has worked with individuals and groups through psychoeducation, support programs, and restorative circles across community, institutional, and non-profit settings. Matt’s work focuses on supporting people navigating conflict, trauma, growth, and insight. This includes past and current members of the Canadian Armed Forces and those who have experienced sexual harm. He has also supported individuals in conflict with the law and those working toward accountability, repair, and change after causing harm.

Matt’s practice is rooted in relationship, collaboration, warmth, curiosity, and compassion. With a holistic and responsive stance, he draws on restorative, humanistic, and mindfulness-based practices to help ease suffering and invite peace, joy, and potential into people’s lives.

Outside of therapy, Matt finds balance through backcountry canoe camping, playing and listening to music, downhill skiing, and creative projects. These are all flow activities that ground and energize him. These experiences remind him that life is worth living to the fullest, to start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.

Guided by authenticity, kindness, wisdom, and unconditional acceptance, Matt’s aim to meet each person with respect and presence. He wishes you all good things.

Sara Robb, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Read bio...

Sara Robb, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Registered Social Worker

Sara is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She completed her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Toronto and has worked in the mental health and eating disorder field for the past 10 years. Sara’s clinical experience includes work in university, community, and hospital settings, specifically in inpatient and day hospital eating disorder programs. She has comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with additional training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Enhanced (CBT-E) for eating disorders and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for post-traumatic stress disorder. Her primary areas of focus include eating disorders, body image distress, trauma, anxiety, and emotion dysregulation.

Sara strives to provide a collaborative, warm, and non-judgmental space, where together you can use compassion, curiosity, and at times gentle humour to explore and make sense of your emotions, thoughts, body sensations, and behaviours. She cares about deeply understanding people’s experiences in order to help them accept themselves, while also supporting them to make meaningful changes toward their goals and values.

When not working or learning about new research in the field, Sara loves being in nature as much as possible. She also enjoys reading, listening to music, cooking, and trying to be patient with herself while she learns to watercolour paint.

Trent Simons, MDiv, RP (he/him)

Registered Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Trent Simons, MDiv, RP (he/him)

Registered Psychotherapist

Trent is a Registered Psychotherapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counselling (Indigenous Studies emphasis) from Tyndale University and Seminary. Trent brings diverse personal, educational and professional experiences to the room, having received his first Master’s Degree in 2002 in Community Economic Development, spent time in over 25 countries, and was born and raised in the Philippines. He also worked for five years as a Family Services Worker for the Children’s Aid Society, ten years as an Associate Pastor of a local church, where he became an ordained minister, and three years at Chigamik Community Health Centre as a therapist and team manager.

Trent has provider status for Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and has been trained in DBT Prolonged Exposure and DBT for cPTSD. He has extensive training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), with training also in Eating Disorder treatment, Radically Open DBT and Narrative Therapy. He specializes in working with PTSD, Eating Disorders, anxiety and mood disorders and is able to provide services to indigenous clients through NIHB.

While Trent brings some training and experience in the area of therapy and counselling, you are the expert on your life. Therapy is a collaborative process in which your experiences (both positive and negative) and strengths combine with the skills a therapist has learned to move you towards becoming the person you were meant to be.

Trent has lived in this community for over 20 years. When not in the office, you might find him enjoying time with his lovely wife of nearly 25 years or their 2 boys. Or you might see him on the soccer pitch trying to kick a ball in a net.

Nicole Turner, RD (she/her)

Registered Dietician

Read bio...

Nicole Turner, RD (she/her)

Registered Dietician

Nicole Turner is a registered dietitian with the College of Dieticians of Ontario. She completed her Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition and Food from Ryerson University and her Masters of Public Health from The University of Waterloo. Nicole then completed her dietetic internship at Hamilton Health Sciences. Her experiences include working in the neurology department at McMaster Children’s Hospital and working in the eating disorder unit at Southlake Regional Health Centre.

Nicole lives in Innisfil with her young family and two big dogs. She would like to continue to serve the eating disorder population and help to provide further access to care.

Dr. Darcy Waisman, M.D. FRCPC (she/her)

Psychiatrist & Medical Doctor

Read bio...

Dr. Darcy Waisman, M.D. FRCPC (she/her)

Psychiatrist & Medical Doctor

Dr. Darcy Waisman completed her medical training as a Psychiatrist with the University of Toronto, and is a Board-Certified Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada. She previously completed a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Alberta and obtained her Medical Degree, with Honours, from the National University of Ireland, University College Dublin.

 

Dr. Waisman has experience both as a specialist and general psychiatrist, who has practiced in both hospitals and in the community, in the Greater Toronto Area, including most recently, Credit Valley Hospital, CAMH and Toronto General Hospital, where she has been privileged to be involved in the treating of individuals with a wide range of mental health presentations, in inpatient, urgent care, outpatient and emergency room settings. Furthermore, Dr. Waisman is extensively trained in and has more than a decade of experience providing numerous psychotherapy modalities, including, but not limited to, individual and group Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.

Dr. Waisman is a knowledgeable, dedicated and collaborative physician, who is open, curious and supportive of her patients and their mental health journeys. She would describe herself as a life-long learner, an avid traveler and someone who loves to read, cook, explore nature and spend time with loved ones. 

Dr. Waisman is honoured and delighted to be joining the team at The Centre For Psychology and Emotion Regulation. 

Vik Weatherston, MA, RP (she/them)

Registered Psychotherapist

Read bio...

Vik Weatherston, MA, RP (she/them)

Registered Psychotherapist

Vik completed their Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University and is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Laurentian University and a post-graduate degree in Addictions: Treatment and Prevention through Georgian College.

Since starting at CPER in 2020, Vik has developed a strong interest in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). She has specialized training in treating adolescents and their families (DBT-A) and those with PTSD (DBT-PE) through a DBT lens. Vik also has intensive training in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for post-traumatic stress disorder, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), including specialized training in providing CBT for adolescents, Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO-DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). They have a special interest in working with the neurodivergent and 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Vik strives to provide a safe, compassionate space for their clients to explore identity, thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, without judgment. She does not shy away from humour in the therapy space. She provides validation, while also cheerleading clients to make the changes they want to see in their lives. Vik views themselves as a lifelong learner and strongly believes she learns just as much from her clients as they learn from her.

In Vik’s spare time, she can be found spending time with her cat, playing board games, going to concerts, and crafting.

Dr. Mengran Xu, PhD, CPsych (he/him)

Clinical & Counselling Psychologist

Read bio...

Dr. Mengran Xu, PhD, CPsych (he/him)

Clinical & Counselling Psychologist

Dr. Xu received his PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Waterloo and is registered as a clinical and counselling psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

Dr. Xu specializes in the assessment and treatment for adults presenting with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and related conditions, using a variety of evidence-based interventions (such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy).

Dr. Xu is particularly experienced in working with individuals who have been exposed to psychological injuries due to their employment, such as veterans, first responders (including police officers, 911 dispatchers, firefighters, and paramedics), correctional officers, and public transportation workers. Dr. Xu oversees the WSIB program at the Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation and provides assessment and treatment to many injured workers every year.

Dr. Xu is a certified provider, consultant, and trainer for Cognitive Processing Therapy, and a certified provider of Prolonged Exposure. These two interventions are usually referred to as the “gold-standard treatments” for PTSD.

In addition to his work with the Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation, Dr. Xu works full-time as a clinical psychologist at Canadian Forces Base Borden and provides mental health services to currently serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces. He also works as an adjunct faculty for the psychology department at the University of Waterloo.

Dr. Xu has previously held several positions at both outpatient and inpatient mental health settings, including Campus Wellness at the University of Waterloo, the Waterloo Psychology Group, and the Eating Disorders Program of Homewood Health Centre. Dr. Xu completed his pre-doctoral residency at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. During his residency year, he worked at the Eating Disorders Program as well as the Borderline Personality Disorder Clinic.

In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Xu has research expertise in anxiety disorders and mindfulness-based interventions and has published a number of peer-reviewed journal articles in these areas. He has also published several books, online courses, and podcasts, provided professional workshops, and presented various talks on topics such as trauma, eating, weight, and emotion regulation.

Dr. Xu is fluent in both English and Chinese (Mandarin).

Our Values

The experience and voices of those with lived experience is central to our work. We do not seek to impose treatment on our clients, rather we do everything we can to work with our clients and to elevate and empower the voices of those who have been oppressed and misunderstood. We regularly seek out experts by experience to help review and guide our processes.

It is our view that all treatment should be sensitive to the unique and pervasive ways that trauma shows up across the treatment journey. At CPER we have developed services and processes that aim to minimize retraumatization and that are accessible and accountable. 

This means we are up-to-date with the published literature and advocacy groups in the areas in which we specialize. We seek out ongoing training from international experts from diverse backgrounds and present at and attend international conferences to ensure we offer the most current and inclusive care possible.

Together with community partners and international experts, our goal is to provide a space that is anti-racist, gender affirming, and weight neutral. We receive ongoing consultation to be accountable to the ways our power and privilege can shape the treatments we offer. We engage in regular training and consultation with experts in the B/I/POC, 2SLGBTQ+ and fat liberation communities. We advocate for our clients who are discriminated against based on their weight and shape, gender, ethnicity, and/or cultural and religious backgrounds. We work to try to secure OHIP funded treatment options and lower cost services whenever possible. 

What Makes Us Different

As a team with years of combined lived experience and clinical insights, we have seen the triumphs and failures in the current system of care. On one hand, the joy of seeing someone heal, thrive and find a new passion for life is immeasurable and something that drives us every day. On the other hand, we have seen significant gaps in the system, and experienced immense frustration with bias, stigma, judgment, lack of resources, and a complacency that has not done justice to the many vulnerable individuals who are in need of care. These realizations continue to motivate us to fight for greater education, advocacy and a higher standard of care for all. More than a job, we do this because it has felt like a calling in our lives to create more diverse and inclusive spaces, to push for change, and to help build the kind of community we want to see in the future.