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Welcome to First Step Men’s Therapy — In-Person and Online 🍁
We’re one of Canada’s largest men’s mental-health group practices, with therapists who understand what men go through.
In-person offices currently located in Toronto, Ottawa, Oshawa, and Markham/Thornhill
Direct billing is available for many members of our team and insurance plans.
More information on direct billing can be found here: Direct Billing for Insurance
Not sure how to book or want a recommendation? Have questions?
👉 Contact our Client Care Team: LINK — we’ll help you find the right fit.
Ready to take the first step?
NEW CLIENTS: Free Consult (Ontario residents only) - Social Worker
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
NEW CLIENTS: Free Consultation (Couples Therapy) 💙- Social Worker
Couples counselling provides a supportive space for partners to explore relationship challenges, improve communication, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection. Whether you're navigating conflict, life transitions, or seeking greater intimacy, this service helps you and your partner develop healthier patterns and shared understanding. Sessions are collaborative and tailored to your unique relationship goals.
Offered by our Registered Social Workers (RSW)
RETURNING CLIENTS: Psychotherapy: Individual Therapy Sessions
One-on-one psychotherapy sessions providing a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space for you to learn, heal, and grow.
RETURNING CLIENTS: 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.
RETURNING CLIENTS: 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.
RETURNING CLIENTS: Social Worker: 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.
Raphael Cote Registered Social Worker RSW#854069
About Raphael
Online and In-Person Toronto
Credentials and Qualifications:
Registered Social Worker - RSW # 854069 Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
Master’s of Social Work (McGill University)
Bachelors of Sociology (University of Western Ontario)
Bachelors of Social Work (Carleton University)
Specializations:
Couples Therapy
Men’s Issues
Anxiety and Stress Management
Trauma and Attachment-based Care
I work primarily with men and couples who feel stuck in cycles of disconnection or internal pressure. Many of my clients come to me because they feel like they are constantly “walking on eggshells” in their relationships or find themselves trapped in the same repetitive patterns without a clear path forward. Men come to me for a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, work related stress, and patterns that have been affecting their relationships with others. My goal is to support clients in breaking these patterns so they can feel more grounded and show up better in their lives and in the relationships that matter most. My therapeutic style is warm and collaborative. I believe therapy should feel like a real conversation rooted in trust and have genuine connection. I use an integrative approach that blends evidence-based methods like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and Solution- Focused Therapy to provide practical, daily tools, alongside Attachment-Focused therapy to heal deeper emotional wounds. I also use the Gottman Method specifically for couples, guiding them through structure and intentional process for relational change. My goal is to foster a therapeutic space that is accessible and comfortable for men. I prioritize a non-judgmental space where we work on identifying the root of the pressure they carry. Together, I help identify their strengths and develop actionable strategies to help them feel more in control of their emotions and better equipped to navigate life’s demands. I also specialize in helping men and couples navigate the complexities of modern relationships. My practice is dedicated to addressing the intersections of identity, emotional regulation, and communication as a foundation for lasting healing and connection. I know that for many men, reaching out for support can feel like a setback rather than a step forward. I have a deep respect for the courage it takes to break that silence, and I make sure our work moves at a pace that feels steady, collaborative, and respectful to you.
About Raphael Online and In-Person Toronto Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Social W... Read More
Mariel Swadden RSW/MSW Registered Social Worker RSW#858706
About Mariel
Credentials and Qualifications:
Registered Social Worker - Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) #858706
Honours Bachelor of Arts - University of Toronto
Bachelor of Social Work - Dalhousie University
Master of Social Work - Toronto Metropolitan University
Alternative Dispute Resolution Levels 1 & 2 - Conrad Grebel College, University of Waterloo
OCSWSSW, OASW, and CASW registered
Specializations:
Anxiety/Depression
Trauma
Self Esteem/Life transitions
Sexuality
LGBTQ+ support
Favourite Books:
An Unquiet Mind - Dr. Kay Redfield Jameson Trauma and Recovery - Dr. Judith Herman
Many of the people I meet in therapy describe feeling disconnected, weighed down by expectations, or unsure how to express what they truly feel. Some are coping with anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges, while others are navigating questions about sex, sexuality, or identity. My goal is to create a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, make sense of your experiences, and begin to feel more at home within yourself. I understand that reaching out can take courage, especially when vulnerability hasn’t always felt safe. My role is to meet you with warmth, respect, and genuine curiosity about your story.
I practice from a strengths-based and client-centered lens, grounding our work in connection and collaboration. I believe meaningful change begins when we feel understood, so I focus on building trust and comfort while bringing an open, nonjudgmental presence to our sessions. I recognize the unique pressures men often face around strength, emotional expression, and intimacy. While I cannot personally know what it’s like to move through the world as a man, I approach these conversations with empathy and a commitment to understanding your perspective.
I work with men and youth navigating anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and issues related to sex, sexuality, and life transitions. My background in community mental health and crisis support allows me to bring steadiness and compassion to difficult moments. My experience supporting the LGBTQ+ community has also shaped my belief that everyone deserves a space to explore who they are and what they need in a way that feels safe and affirming. Together, we can focus on helping you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and to the people who matter most.
[Learn more about Mariel]
About Mariel Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Social Worker - Ontario College of Soci... Read More
John Hill Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO Reg#15074
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.
About John Online and In Person - Toronto Credentials and Qualifications: Registered Psychothe... Read More
Rene Ng
(He/Him/His)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CRPO Reg #16145
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
Steven Graham Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CRPO Reg #20263
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Located at: 1 Dundas St W, Suite 2563, Toronto
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Need Help? 289-352-9485 info@firststepmenstherapy.com