Welcome to First Step Men’s Therapy

We are so glad you have found us and are wanting to take the first step 🚶🏻‍♂️‍➡️🚶🏾‍♂️

Our services are open to all residents of: Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Yukon, Nunavut, Newfoundland, New Brunswick, and the Northwest Territories 🍁

Two options for services: Online Appointments 💻through our secure telehealth platform or In-Person at our Ottawa (Centretown) 🏢 and In-Person at our Toronto (Eaton Centre) offices

Suivis/ services thérapeutiques offerts en français & Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)

Insurance Coverage: Your session may be covered by your health insurance provider. We ask you to inquire with your insurance provider prior to the first session regarding coverage for psychotherapy.

Cancellation Policy: Please note that the clinic has a 48 hour cancellation policy 🕒 to allow for better client care. Should you wish to cancel your appointment, you can do this through your profile prior to 48 hours from session time or email us at info@firststepmenstherapy.com

Looking for low-cost or pro-bono services? Our affordable therapy program with our masters student interns offers counselling services to those who face financial limitations in seeking therapy. Rates vary from pro-bono ($0) up to $85 per session. This fee is determined by the client during the first initial intake session, which is provided to all affordable therapy program clients at no cost. To book a free consultation with one of our ATP therapists, please select Affordable Therapy Program - Free Consultation under “Online Appointments”

Want to learn more? To check out our social media pages, website, sign up for our men’s mental health newsletter, or read our blog, click here: Access more information

Toronto Location

**NOTE**: All consultations are free and conducted over the phone, through our video link, or in-person. Please ensure you select the correct one.

All individual counselling sessions take place in-person through our Toronto location - Suite 2563 @ 1 Dundas Street West (above the Eaton Centre)


Associate Therapists - Individual 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 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 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

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