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

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.

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 Consult - 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.


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.

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 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

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

Select a session from the list on the left
to view available appointment times

Pick a treatment to book