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

Welcome!

We offer therapy to residents across Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Yukon, Nunavut, Newfoundland, New Brunswick, and the Northwest Territories. Services are available online through secure telehealth (virtual) sessions or in-person at our Ottawa and Toronto locations.

We provide services in French and several other languages, accept Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) and Veterans Affairs coverage, and support many insurance claims.

For those in financial need, we offer an affordable therapy program with rates from $25 per session.

Learn more, follow us on social media, or sign up for our men’s mental health newsletter via our website

Complimentary Consultation (Ontario residents)

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!**

Please note: These bookings are for those who reside in the province of Ontario


Associate Therapists - Individual Therapy - Sessions

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


Associate Therapists - Couples Sessions

We offer a space for both men and their partners to learn about each other and themselves with our couples sessions. These sessions allow for time to learn, grow, and heal with a qualified therapist aimed at listening and working with both partners in a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment.

About John

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 Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) - College of... Read More

About Darryl

Credentials and Qualifications:

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) - College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario # 15684

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology - Yorkville University (in progress)

Fundamentals of EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy) Externship - International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT)

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

Specializations:

Specializations:

Anxiety

Stress

Emotional Disturbance

ADHD

Coping Skills

Depression

Family Conflict

Grief

Men’s Issues

Parenting

Peer Relationships

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Favourite Book: One of the books that I would recommend to help individuals struggling with communication in their relationship and developing a secure sense of connection with others is “Hold Me Tight” by Sue Johnson.

In a world that often expects men to mask their emotions and tough it out, the struggle with mental health can be a silent battle, impacting every aspect of life. As a therapist specializing in men’s mental health, I recognize the unique challenges men face, from relationship hurdles to self-esteem issues, anxiety, and beyond.

Many men grapple with relationship conflicts, family pressures, emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief, and the complexities of modern masculinity. These challenges can weigh heavily, affecting personal well-being and relationships.

My mission is to help men break free from these burdensome patterns, empowering them to build healthier connections, find inner peace, and rediscover a sense of purpose and confidence. Together, we’ll navigate through the layers of self-beliefs, communication barriers, and societal pressures, unlocking your true potential.

With over five years of frontline experience in mental health, I’ve guided men through anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, ADHD, and relationship issues. My approach integrates practical tools like self-regulation techniques, mindfulness practices, and effective communication strategies to facilitate lasting change.

Through our work, you’ll emerge stronger, more resilient, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and authenticity. Experience the transformation of reconnecting with yourself, building fulfilling relationships, and stepping into a brighter future. Take the courageous step forward and reach out to learn more today! Learn more about Darryl

About Darryl Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) - College ... Read More

About Shayna

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 Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Social Worker - RSW # 837001 Ontario Co... Read More

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