Welcome to First Step Men’s Therapy - available across Canada

Why choose us? Here are a few reasons we are one of Canada’s largest men’s mental health group practices:

✅ Dedicated mission to support men in their healing, learning, and growth

✅ Over 30 therapists to choose from

✅ In-Person options available in Ottawa, Toronto, Oshawa, and York Region

✅ Direct Billing available with certain providers/therapists

✅ Day, Evening, and Weekend Options

✅ Approved provider for Veterans Affairs Canada, Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB), and many First Responders

ONLINE ACROSS CANADA 🍁 (Secure platform) - Select Online Appointments on the main booking page

IN-PERSON OPTIONS ⬇️

📍 OTTAWA - 396 COOPER STREET - (BANK & COOPER - CENTRETOWN)

📍TORONTO - 1 DUNDAS STREET WEST (ABOVE EATON CENTRE)

📍OSHAWA - 111 SIMCOE STREET NORTH (SIMCOE ST ABOVE BOND ST)

📍YORK REGION - 125 COMMERCE VALLEY DRIVE WEST (BETWEEN HIGHWAY 7 & 407 ON MARKHAM/THORNHILL BORDER)

HAVE QUESTIONS? - NEED RECOMMENDATIONS from OUR TEAM? - WANT MORE INFO?

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✉️ 📞 💬 CONTACT US ⬅️ (Click for LINK TO OUR CLIENT CARE TEAM)

Free Consultation - Affordable Therapy Program (Sessions starting from $25)

Our Affordable Therapy Program is run by master's level practicum students who are completing their graduate-level program. The initial assessment session is free, followed by affordable rates after the first session. The program is best for short-term counselling (6-8 months) to help you with improving overall functioning and working through life difficulties. **It is not recommended fo... Read More

Our Affordable Therapy Program is run by master's level practicum students who are completing their graduate-level program.

The initial assessment session is free, followed by affordable rates after the first session. The program is best for short-term counselling (6-8 months) to help you with improving overall functioning and working through life difficulties.

**It is not recommended for individuals with complex mental health concerns that may require long-term clinical experience.**

Rates range from $0-$85 and are determined by clients within the initial intake assessment session, which is offered at no cost.


Free Consultation (available across Canada) - Psychotherapist

Interested in therapy and want to find a good fit? We offer a 20-minute complimentary phone or video consultation to help answer any questions you may have and get to speak with a qualified therapist who may be a good fit. **You can book one consult or a few to find the best fit!**

Note: For RP/RP Qualifying, services are available to individuals across Canada.


Psychotherapy: Individual Therapy Sessions

One-on-one psychotherapy sessions providing a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space for you to learn, heal, and grow.


Social Work: Individual Therapy Sessions

One-on-one sessions with a Registered Social Worker providing a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space for you to learn, heal, and grow.


Affordable Therapy Program: Individual Sessions

These sessions are for those who have completed a consultation call or wish to book an initial intake/assessment session with a member of the affordable therapy program directly.

About John

Online and In Person - Toronto

Credentials and Qualifications:

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) - College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario # 15074

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology - Yorkville University

Specializations:

Addiction

Relationship Issues

Men’s Issues

Depression

Anxiety

Self-esteem

Life Transitions/Grief

Favourite Book:

In the realm of hungry ghosts by Dr. Gabor Mate.

I specialize in helping men overcome a range of struggles, including but not limited to:

Addiction: I have been a SMART™ facilitator and have worked in a variety of backgrounds, including an addiction treatment center.

Emotional Resilience: Navigating and managing emotions in a healthy and constructive way.

Relationship Dynamics: Enhancing communication and intimacy within relationships.

Workplace/Career Stress: Developing strategies to thrive in high-pressure work environments.

Identity and Self-Exploration: Unpacking questions of identity and purpose.

Anxiety and Depression: Providing tools to manage and overcome these common challenges.

Grief and Loss: Supporting you on your journey to healing, acceptance, and processing life’s difficult experiences.

In working with me, a focus will be on your strengths and how to leverage those strengths to help overcome whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I believe that everyone has the capability to do great things and become the best version of themselves as defined by themselves. We all have greatness in us, and everyone needs support to bring it out!

I believe in a holistic approach that considers the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of well-being. Drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused approaches

Understanding the stigma often associated with seeking help, I strive to create a welcoming environment where men feel understood and supported. I believe that therapy is a strength, not a weakness, and encourage men to take proactive steps towards their mental health journey.

There is a Sioux Indian saying: The longest journey you will make in your life is from your head to your heart. I would be honoured to be part of that journey with you.

Learn more about John

About John Online and In Person - Toronto Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Psychothe... Read More

About Rene

(Toronto In-Person/Online)

Credentials and Qualifications:

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) - College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, CRPO Reg #16145

Master’s Level Diploma in Psychotherapy, The Living Institute, Toronto

Licensed EMDR Therapist, EMDR Institute

Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, History, and Marketing, Mount Allison University

Peer Facilitator at Mankind Project

Specializations:

Addiction (Porn/Sex/Love)

Anxiety & Depression

Self-Esteem

Financial Trauma

Codependency

Victims of Abuse (Personality Disorders)

Career Change/Challenges

Men’s Issues/Masculinity

Introduction

Hello and welcome! My passion is driven by a desire to help men navigate life’s challenges and uncover their authentic selves. I bring a trauma-informed, humanistic approach to my work, ensuring that each client feels seen, heard, and supported in a safe, non-judgmental space. By integrating evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Carl Jung’s Archetypal Therapy, I help clients address emotional wounds, attachment issues, and triggers that may be holding them back.

My goal is to empower my clients to build self-awareness, break free from unhealthy patterns, and develop healthier coping strategies and relationships. Whether you’re dealing with addiction, navigating trauma, or seeking greater emotional resilience, I’m here to guide you on your journey toward balance and fulfillment. After working together, many clients report feeling more connected to themselves, experiencing increased self-esteem, and cultivating deeper, more meaningful relationships.

With a Master’s Level Training in Psychotherapy and certifications in EMDR therapy, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my practice. My background includes working with men’s mental health organizations, the Mankind Project, and addiction recovery centres. Together, we can create a path forward that feels authentic, empowering, and aligned with your goals.

I look forward to connecting with you!

About Rene (Toronto In-Person/Online) Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Psychotherapi... Read More

About Shayna

Online and In Person - Toronto

Credentials and Qualifications:

Registered Social Worker - RSW # 837001 Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

Master of Social Worker, University of Windsor

Bachelor of Arts, Sociology, Queens University

Specializations:

Life Transitions

Anxiety and Depression

Anger Management

Self-Esteem

Stress Management

Substance and Behavioural Addiction

Relationship Issues/Communication

With over eight years of experience as a social worker, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals in a variety of clinical settings, including correctional institutions, outpatient mental health programs, and substance use treatment centers. In previous roles, I worked as a Family Service Worker and was authorized as a Child Protection Worker, bringing a deep understanding of complex family dynamics and systemic challenges to my practice.

My work focuses on helping men navigate life’s struggles, including the consequences of substance use disorders and personal challenges. Many of my clients have faced difficulties with self-esteem, toxic masculinity, poor communication skills, and relationship issues.

I am deeply committed to providing a safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. My therapeutic approach is flexible and integrative, drawing on strength-based and trauma-informed practices, as well as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I ground my practice in empathy, respect, and humility, meeting clients in ways that are meaningful and relevant to their unique experiences.

I also help clients build vital life skills, such as fostering self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, developing effective communication, and creating actionable goals. Seeking support is a courageous step, and I am committed to walking this journey of healing and personal growth alongside each of my clients.

More about Shayna

About Shayna Online and In Person - Toronto Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Social ... Read More

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