About Raphael

PLEASE NOTE: RAPHAEL IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

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 PLEASE NOTE: RAPHAEL IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Online and In-Person Toro... Read More

About John

PLEASE NOTE: JOHN IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

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 PLEASE NOTE: JOHN IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Online and In Person - Toronto ... Read More

About Steele

I work with men whose private struggles or unresolved trauma have begun to overwhelm their lives and relationships. Many of the men I support are at a breaking point—where their usual ways of coping no longer work and carrying everything alone is no longer sustainable. If you feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, shame, guilt, loneliness, or disconnection, therapy can offer a space to slow down, gain clarity, and create meaningful change.

I also care deeply about supporting immigrant men who are navigating the pressure of family expectations while balancing cultural identities. The tension between personal truth and cultural responsibility can feel isolating and complex, and it deserves thoughtful, compassionate support.

I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially when vulnerability is difficult. I prioritize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can speak honestly about your struggles. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness-based practices, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) strategies to help you understand your inner world and strengthen emotional regulation. With over 17 years of personal meditation practice, I bring a calm, steady presence to our work and can support you in building or deepening your own practice.

I help men process trauma, overcome addiction and compulsive behaviors, improve their relationships, and navigate challenges related to race, culture, and spirituality. I also support those seeking to integrate psychedelic experiences into their healing. Together, we build the self-awareness and skills you need to move forward with greater confidence and purpose.

Credentials and Qualifications:

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology – Yorkville University (In Progress)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills – 6 Weeks; Marsha Linehan, PsychWire; 2023

Psychedelic Psycho-Spiritual Safety and Ethics Training – 6 Weeks; Dr. Katrina Michelle, PhD, LCSW and Elizabeth Sabet, CPC, ASLSC; 2024

Kids Help Phone Crisis Responder Training – 36 Hours; 2023

Vipassana Meditation Course – 10 Days; 2012 & 2023/2024

Yoga Teacher Training – 200 Hours; 2017

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology – York University; 2015

Specializations:

Trauma & PTSD Addiction & Recovery (Sex, Porn, Substances) Relationship Challenges Race and Cultural Issues

Favourite Book: A Path With Heart - Dr. Jack Kornfield, Ph.D. and Spiritual Emergency: When Personal Transformation Becomes a Crisis - Dr. Stanislav Grof, M.D. and Christina Grof

About Steele I work with men whose private struggles or unresolved trauma have begun to overwhel... Read More