Hello, I’m Amira (She/Her) and my journey has woven a diverse tapestry. From being a dentist to a healthcare executive, I’ve experienced the full spectrum of challenges and victories in these demanding roles. I’ve encountered burnout firsthand and weathered its storms. Along this path, I stumbled upon naturopathic medicine – a revelation that resonated with my belief that there’s a holistic way to restore equilibrium without relying solely on pharmaceuticals. Taking a leap of faith, I pursued a second degree as a Naturopathic Doctor. Now, the saying “love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life” rings true for me. I’ve merged the compassion, patience, and evidence-based practices from dentistry with the leadership skills gained from my executive roles. This fusion has culminated in holistic mind-body medicine, which is my true calling.

Having experienced burnout’s toll firsthand – both mentally and physically – I’m passionate about empowering others to live with clarity, vitality, and equilibrium. My focus lies in the foundational pillars of health: gut health, mental well-being, hormonal equilibrium, and metabolic vitality. Let’s partner up and navigate your health journey together, uncovering the transformative potential of holistic wellness.

Some areas Dr. Abdelaziz focuses on: - Weight management - Digestive complaints - Hormonal imbalances (PCOS, PMS, Menopause) - Mood disorders (Burnout, anxiety, sleep disorders) - Brain fog - Skin and Hair health

Hello, I’m Amira (She/Her) and my journey has woven a diverse tapestry. From being a dentist to a... Read More

Hi my name is Jenn (She/Her).

Thank you for taking the time to visit us. Investing in your mental health and well-being is such an important factor in your life’s journey. I know that the concept of “therapy” can be intimidating, but I am here to provide you with a safe, comfortable, and non-judgemental space that will allow you to feel supported and empowered. 

My practice is strength-based and trauma-informed. I believe it is extremely important to recognize the interaction and impact between one’s mind, body, and external environment. 

Everybody comes with a past and present self that helped shape who we once were, who we are, and who we want to become. I do not believe that therapy should be a “one size fits all” approach, therefore I tailor sessions to accommodate my client’s unique strengths and needs. I encourage open and honest dialogue throughout the therapeutic process to allow for a client-centered and collaborative approach. 

You are the expert in your own life, I am here to utilize my personal and extensive professional experience and education to support, process, guide, and gently push you along the way.

Oftentimes clients are looking for guidance, a sense of calm, a feeling of relief, a place to feel validated and heard. Other clients have specific, targeted goals that they would like to work on through therapy. Whatever the reason, I will work with you every step of the way.

Some areas Jenn focuses on include: - Anxiety - Depression - Trauma and PTSD - Stress - Grief and Loss - Life changes and transitions - Self-harm and suicidal ideation - Teen population - Adult population

Hi my name is Jenn (She/Her). Thank you for taking the time to visit us. Investing in your menta... Read More

Life can be tough and is full of challenges. It can also be beautiful. But when we are in pain and suffering, it can be difficult to find joy and engage in things that matter to us. Challenges and difficulties are part of everyone’s life; they are part of our shared human experience. My goal is to work with you to find moments of peace and meaning during darker times. Coming to therapy can be scary and intimidating. To take a bit of that pressure off, I have a down-to-earth, easy-going, compassionate and empathetic approach to therapy. I also believe that a personalized approach that allows time to build relationships and respect one’s own pace is essential. While I use a variety of evidence-based approaches and modalities (such as but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy) to guide my assessments and interventions, my social work lens and values are at the center of my professional practice. With that in mind, I strongly believe that every person is a worthy, capable human being with strengths of their own. Together, we will work on uncovering and developing your skills, strengths and what matters to you, with the end goal to be better equipped to face life’s challenges and live a more fulfilling life. I believe that our suffering and difficulties are not solely of our own making; external factors (such as our relationships, past experiences, socioeconomic factors, etc.) also play a role in the choices that we make, and part of my role is to help you make sense of the impact these factors have on your life. Oftentimes, the biomedical model that dominates our health systems tends to pathologize human emotions, and humanizing and normalizing reactions to adverse circumstances is central to my practice. I offer services in both English and French. I firmly believe that being able to express yourself in the language with which you feel the most comfortable is very important, so that it does not become an obstacle to sharing your emotions and talking about your challenges. On a more personal note… I consider myself a (mostly) recovered perfectionist and working through those tendencies in a helping profession has had its own challenges. With that (mostly) out of the way, I can more fully enjoy what really matters to me, such as spending meaningful time with my family. For me, that means spending a lot of time supporting my (not so little anymore) kiddo with her chosen sport, and since she has a recently diagnosed chronic health condition, going to various medical appointments. I enjoy reading and low-key activities on the weekends to recoup from busy weeks.

Life can be tough and is full of challenges. It can also be beautiful. But when we are in pain an... Read More

Hi there! I’m Dr. Shelley Burns, ND (she/her). I am originally from Montréal, Quebec but found my way to Toronto to further my naturopathic education. I have been in practice for 20+ years as a Naturopathic Doctor and prior to my shift in careers, I was a social worker, working with individuals with developmental disabilities and individuals dually diagnosed with a developmental disability and a mental health issue.

In my first 15 years of practice as a Naturopathic Doctor, I worked alongside medical doctors, consulting as a team, to offer the best advice from the medical and naturopathic worlds.

I completed the four-year program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, where I received the NaturoMedic Award for proficiency in Naturopathic Medicine. I hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Philosophy from Wilfred Laurier University, a Master of Laws degree in Health Law from Osgoode Law School and certification in Complementary and Integrative Medicine from the Harvard Medical School.

My passion for Naturopathic Medicine led me to establish the Naturopathy Act, 2007 in my tenure as the Chair of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and I currently sit on the council of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario. I supervise at the Robert Schad Naturopathic clinic (the educational clinic of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine) and the Sherbourne Health Centre working with individuals who have been diagnosed with HIV.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I have a special interest in precision medicine encompassing prevention and health optimization. I don’t believe in population health, so why should I try to fit you into a population you are different from?

I focus on the gut-brain connection and how it impacts hormonal, immune system, nutrient and mental/emotional health. My viewpoint is that your overall health is determined by your digestive system health.

My focus includes: - Digestive system issues including microbiome enhancement - Autoimmune conditions - Hormonal issues including perimenopause, thyroid and adrenal imbalances

When I am not in practice, I enjoy spending time with my dog PeggySue and working on my land. Foraging mushrooms, identifying medicinal herbs and attempting to make maple syrup are a part of this experience.

With all that said, I believe you deserve the best possible health outcomes and I look forward to being a part of your health journey!

Hi there! I’m Dr. Shelley Burns, ND (she/her). I am originally from Montréal, Quebec but found ... Read More

Hi! My name is Carine (she/her) and I’m a Registered Acupuncturist. I am so happy that you made it here and I hope we can work together in the future.

When I was 19 years old, I sought out acupuncture treatments for allergies. Right away, I was amazed at how much this medicine could help me. Throughout my life, I kept coming back to it whenever I needed help, for physical as well as mental health issues. When I decided it was time for me to go back to school and find a career that would also be a passion, it was a no-brainer, I would become an acupuncturist.

In June 2022, I graduated with Honours from the International Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Ottawa as an Acupuncture Practitioner. I am a Registered Acupuncturist with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturist of Ontario (CTCMPAO).

I am a mom of 3 boys first and foremost. It goes without saying that this shapes my practice and the things that I’m passionate about. I used to be a doula and a lactation peer support for several years. I was also certified as a 200 hours yoga teacher in 2017 and I am also trained in pre-natal and yin yoga. Furthermore, I hold a college certificate in Social Work. I am a resident of Rockland and I grew up in the beautiful Laurentians.

My practice will also always be a safe space for everyone: members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC folks, people with addictions or mental health issues and anyone who needs it.

I am welcoming to anyone who feels they need Chinese medicine in their life. If you are called to acupuncture, please feel free to reach out to me and see if this is a good fit for you.

I do have a few areas of interest: - Women’s health, both physical and mental (from fertility to menopause to pregnancy and postpartum support) - Treating the whole family, including children - Digestive issues - Mental health, trauma and addictions - Pain relief

Carine offers her services in both English and French.

Hi! My name is Carine (she/her) and I’m a Registered Acupuncturist. I am so happy that you made i... Read More

Hi! My name is Keara (She/her), BA, BSW, RSW

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the immense amount of courage and strength it takes to access care for your mental health. Just by attending therapy you have given yourself permission to be vulnerable. I am honoured that you would consider including me on your healing journey.

I believe in using a client centred approach to therapy, where the client is the expert over their own life. In this capacity, I will work with you to create a safe and supportive space that is inclusive, compassionate and empathetic. To accomplish this, I will help you identify what you want to explore, then guide and support your journey of self discovery. The process of working through emotional and physical pain is not easy. I myself am familiar with physical and emotional trauma, invisible illness and the experience of trying to navigate the traditional medical system. Together, we will explore the interconnectedness of mind and body and how, as individuals, our experience are as unique as we are.

Originally from Newfoundland, the ancestral unceded homelands of the Beothuk and Mi’kma’ki people, and mother of two, I have over 10 years experience in the field of social work. I am specialized in, and passionate about, gender-based violence, advocacy work with women, youth, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC and oppressed communities, and social justice issues. I use a feminist, client-centred and trauma informed approach and apply aspects of nature-based therapy to ensure individualized care for each person. I am also an avid outdoor adventurist, forest wanderer, former competitive mountain biker and the healing powers of nature. I have been told I have a genuine energy about me, that is very kind. I believe in working within an inclusive, multidisciplinary, collaborative environment and am excited to be part of the Femade Team.

Hi! My name is Keara (She/her), BA, BSW, RSW I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledg... Read More

Hi, I’m Meaghan (she/her)! I’m a Certified Genetic Counselor and the Founder of DNAide Genetic Counselling. I help people who want to have a baby understand the role that genetics plays in the process. Whether you are just starting out, are currently pregnant, or if you are experiencing infertility or pregnancy loss genetics plays a role, and I am here to help.

I studied genetics and psychology at the University of Toronto, and obtained my Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at Arcadia University in Pennsylvania. After working in a Canadian IVF clinic I realized that it is rare for fertility patients to have access to genetic counsellors. I joined Instagram to provide education @DNAideGC, and then founded DNAide to help make reproductive genetic counselling more accessible.

In Ontario is is common that you will only meet with an OHIP-covered genetic counsellor if you meet certain criteria. This criteria is strict, and often leaves people who don’t meet criteria with a lot of unanswered questions. Together with Femade I look forward to enhancing reproductive genetics care in Ontario!

Hi, I’m Meaghan (she/her)! I’m a Certified Genetic Counselor and the Founder of DNAide Genetic Co... Read More

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HI! My name is Melanie (She/Her).

I completed a master’s thesis, titled, ‘How parents define high-conflict co-parenting before, during, and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic’, for my Counselling Psychology degree with Athabasca University. Before starting my Master’, I earned a B.A. honours degree, specializing in psychology, at the University of Ottawa, with a focus on the developmental impacts of childhood trauma across the lifespan.

I have worked extensively with individuals and groups who experienced a history of trauma at the Centre for Treatment of Sexual Abuse and Childhood Trauma before and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years I have gained experience working with individuals in my private practice, specializing in the treatment of symptoms of early childhood trauma as they appear in the context of the relationships to self and others. Specifically, issues that may entail experiences of anxiety (social, or generalized), anger, communication problems, and personality issues.

Some areas I focus on include:

• emotional overwhelm/dysregulation
• communication issues
• relationship issues
• perfectionism
• life transitions
• PTSD (complex trauma, situational traumatic experiences, nightmares, attachment stuff, people pleasing)
• self-esteem
• anxiety (GAD, social)
• depression
• personality issues

In my practice I provide a warm, non-judgemental, strengths ‘based approach in a collaborative environment to integrate current state-of-the-art, evidence-based techniques and strategies in each session. These include interventions from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focus Brief Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and The Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM).

I look forward to working with you.

HI! My name is Melanie (She/Her). I completed a master’s thesis, titled, ‘How parents define hig... Read More

Hi my name is Anusha (she/her). Yes I am the founder of this beautiful clinic but I am also an endometriosis warrior. I was diagnosed at the age of 14 and was put on birth control for 15 years. It was only because I was trying to have children that my doctors took me seriously. I have since had one ablation and two excisions to remove my endometriosis but that doesn’t rid me of the pelvic pain, and the soul crushing cramps I get every month. I chose to go off all forms of birth control to explore what I am like off hormones. Come join me once a month to chat about our experiences and how we can get through this together.

Hi my name is Anusha (she/her). Yes I am the founder of this beautiful clinic but I am also an en... Read More

My name is Jen (she/her). I spent my twenties living, studying, volunteering and working in Montreal until moving back to the Ottawa Area in 2005. In Mtl, I completed a B.Ed in Physical Education with concentrations in Gender, Religious Studies, and Psychology at McGill University. I worked as a personal trainer and volunteered as an outreach facilitator, coordinator, then board member for the Sexual Assault Centre of McGill Student Society (SACOMSS) It was also during this time that I began my studies, then work, as a Yoga Teacher. My original YTT arrived in my life at a busy time and also alongside when I was integrating some experiences with sexual trauma, layered with unnamed anxiety and depression.

Even though I had always been physically active, practicing yoga opened up possibilities and ways of feeling more connected between my body, mind and among many of my other relationships in life. Through life’s shatterings, yoga has remained a continual learning process in being grounded and permeable to the elements while remembering ways of coming home to my body After the YTT, I took my first steps into teaching yoga- in yoga studios, YMCAs, Health Clubs (kind of a thing in Mtl), and in schools for teachers.

I can also say that I’ve seen how yoga culture and the industry of yoga took root then thrived in these parts over two decades. For years, I’ve had this nagging feeling about who isn’t making it to yoga classes and how might yoga serve in diverse ways with more kinds of folks?

This is about the time that I discovered Yoga Therapy and how this training can work well alongside other therapies. My focus is supporting people through their sexual, birth, or pelvic related trauma and/or persistent pain experiences-moving towards wholeness and wellness in our daily rhythms and routines. I am also entering my last year of studies to become a Registered Clinical Herbalist, so I am looking forward to weaving all these learnings together in my offerings!

My name is Jen (she/her). I spent my twenties living, studying, volunteering and working in Montr... Read More

My name is Jessica La Riccia (she/her) and I am a bilingual registered Occupational Therapist, having recently completed my Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Ottawa. I was drawn to the profession of occupational therapy because of the holistic and well-rounded approach which takes into account all aspects of a person; including their unique capabilities, their physical and social environment and all of their daily tasks (also known as occupations).

Through various clinical placements, I have had the pleasure of working with clients from all age groups with a broad spectrum of physical, cognitive, and psychological impairments, including; stroke, concussion, musculoskeletal/ orthopedic injuries, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc. In all practice settings, I strive to create a safe space in which clients feel understood, supported and empowered. In addition to my work at Femade, I also currently work with adult and geriatric populations in acute care medicine.

Occupational therapy sessions can include but are not limited to:

· Teaching coping, self-regulation, relaxation and stress management skills

· Education and tools regarding chronic pain symptom management

· Promoting the use of self-regulation and sensory strategies.

· Support to plan, initiate and track short- and long-term goals that enable participation in activities most important to you.

· Identifying and implementing healthy/positive habits, structuring into routines.

· Modifying your environment to support improved attention, participation, and decrease sensory overload at school and/or at work.

·Developing skills for self-awareness, assertiveness, social and interpersonal skills, resiliency and role building.

As an occupational therapist, I seek to support you in overcoming any physical, mental and or environmental challenges that may be hindering your fullest participation in daily life. Occupational therapy can help you to establish and attain meaningful goals, maintain function and independence, and support positive coping skills and mental health. Through education, therapy, guidance and support, I am passionate about working collaboratively to find strategies and solutions to help you achieve your optimal and desired lifestyle.

My name is Jessica La Riccia (she/her) and I am a bilingual registered Occupational Therapist, ha... Read More

Hi there, my name is Maddy (she/her) and I’m a Registered Physiotherapist with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

I completed a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree at McGill University, followed by a Master of Science (MSc) in Physiotherapy degree at McMaster University. I have pursued postgraduate training in pelvic health physiotherapy, as well as additional courses focused on persistent pain and the physiotherapy management of gastrointestinal disorders.

Prior to becoming a physiotherapist, I developed a strong interest in pelvic health while working in a gynecological surgery clinic. I was able to learn more about many gynecological conditions and their effects on patients’ quality of life. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career that allowed me to help care for this highly underserved patient population.

I can help you address a wide range of symptoms/conditions (see below) and have a particular interest in treating vaginal pain (e.g. with sex, pelvic exams, tampons). Using a combination of approaches, including pain neuroscience education, manual techniques, therapeutic movement (that feels good!), and goal setting, I hope to guide you in developing body awareness and skills to better manage your symptoms. I am dedicated to providing psychologically-informed and trauma-informed care.

I believe it’s important not only to understand your basic health history, but the many aspects of your life that have been impacted by your symptoms. My therapeutic approach centres around collaboration every step of the way - together, we can identify evidence-based, sustainable strategies that improve your body’s function and your quality of life.

Seeking out a healthcare professional for pelvic conditions and persistent pain can be anxiety-provoking, especially if you have experienced dismissal or trauma in the past. My goal, first and foremost, is to do everything I can to create a safe and comfortable environment for your healing.

I provide services in English.

Areas of Focus:

-Pelvic pain (e.g. due to vulvodynia/vaginismus, endometriosis, postpartum, menopause)

-Bladder symptoms (e.g. urinary incontinence, increased urinary urge/frequency, bladder pain)

-Bowel symptoms (e.g. fecal incontinence, constipation, painful bowel movements)

-Pelvic organ prolapse

-Prenatal and postpartum care

-Acute and/or persistent low back, sacroiliac joint, tailbone, hip pain

-Other persistent pain (e.g. fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, ongoing symptoms following injury or surgery, chronic whiplash-associated disorders)

-Decreased strength and balance associated with aging, including mobility aid recommendations (not ADP authorized)

Hi there, my name is Maddy (she/her) and I’m a Registered Physiotherapist with the College of Phy... Read More

Hi! I’m Sara. I am a Registered Massage Therapist with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. My practice focuses primarily on TMJD (jaw dysfunction), head, neck & back pain, and peri-natal massage. I have taken additional courses in manual therapy for the TMJ, and in intraoral/buccal massage. I employ a trauma-informed, body-positive approach, recognizing the potential impact of past experiences and creating a calming environment that prioritizes sensitivity and empowerment. My massage therapy treatment aims to help you better understand your pain, improve body awareness, develop strategies for stress reduction, and (re)introduce movement that feels good.

Some areas I focus on are:

• TMJ (Jaw) dysfunction

• Head, Neck & Back Pain

• Prenatal Massage

• Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Stress, Relaxation

Hi! I’m Sara. I am a Registered Massage Therapist with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontar... Read More

Hi! I’m Fiona (she/her) and a secondary infertility / loss mama to 2 kiddos earth side and 5 babies above me.

I struggled with infertility for 5 years and reoccurring pregnancy loss. The time spent trying to conceive can be extremely lonely and isolating. I was lucky enough to find an amazing community of warriors through social media, and together we supported and lifted each other up when the dark days felt too much.

My hope for this group is to create a sense of community where it’s a safe space to share all the experiences that come along with expanding our families

Hi! I’m Fiona (she/her) and a secondary infertility / loss mama to 2 kiddos earth side and 5 babi... Read More

Hi! My name is Melanie (She/Her). Growing up, I considered myself to have many different interests, which kept me extremely active. I also hated spending time alone. I was diagnosed with depression and a General Anxiety Disorder at age 15 and sought support from a psychologist and medication. When I was 25, major family changes impacted my existing mental health challenges. I ended up developing health issues resulting in two abdominal surgeries. With both, I was told I should be able to return to my regular functions 1-2 weeks post-surgery. However, I had to take 1 month off work and experienced chronic pain for over a year due to severe abdominal adhesions. I sought services from various practitioners to help me get my health back on track.

Sports have always been my way of managing my anxiety. However, the pain I experienced did not allow me to use movement as a coping mechanism anymore. Although I felt stuck in my body, dismissed and misunderstood, the pain eventually dissipated as I continued my efforts to reduce inflammation and work with my health team.

During this time, I received a diagnosis of IBS, GERD, SIBO and HPA axis dysregulation. I feel passionate about helping those with invisible illness and chronic pain manage their mental health to deal with the unknown, find balance, and feel heard.

Hi! My name is Melanie (She/Her). Growing up, I considered myself to have many different interest... Read More

HI! My name is Jay (He/Him).

If life can be envisioned as a story, yours most certainly is a precious one. Looking back on each chapter of it, no matter what plot you have been central to, you endured, you accomplished, you overcame.

As a psychotherapist and healthcare professional driven by compassion and a commitment to others, I believe that humans have the capacity to solve even the most complex of problems through utilizing themselves as their own resource.

Some of the areas I focus on include:

• Mood Disorders
• Couples Counselling
• Trauma and PTSD
• Addictions

My education and experience allows me the ability to help guide you through the most challenging issues in your life, but ultimately the greatest joy I receive is witnessing your sense of value, self-identity, and self- worth return as a result of reconnecting with the one person that matters the very most: you.

Together we will achieve the goals in your life that you find most significant and unlock your strengths and values that temporarily fell below the surface.

Difficult journeys lead to beautiful destinations, it would be my honour to walk alongside you on route to yours.

HI! My name is Jay (He/Him). If life can be envisioned as a story, yours most certainly is a pre... Read More

Hello! My name is Silvia Saraiva (she/her). I am a registered physiotherapist and have special interest in Pelvic Health / Women’s Health. I completed a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy (BSc. PT) in 2008 in Brazil, where I’m originally from.

For years, I worked in clinics, hospitals and finally a maternity hospital, where I discovered my true passion for Women’s Health. After this realization I centred my practice in Gynecology and Obstetrics, helping people in prenatal, labour, and postnatal stages.

Shortly after arriving in Canada, I obtained licensure in Ontario and in 2017 completed a specialization in Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. I am currently a graduate student (Master of Science in Human Kinetics – MSc. HK) and researcher at the University of Ottawa where I focus on Women’s Health. I am a proud member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and Women’s Health Division.

Here are some conditions that I treat, but not limited to:

• Incontinence of bladder and bowels
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pre-natal and postnatal care
• Pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
• Diastasis recti (DRA)
• Constipation
• Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
• Vaginismus
• Vulvodynia
• Endometriosis
• Post-menopausal care
• Lower back pain
• Pelvic girdle pain
• Coccydynia

I believe in a multidisciplinary approach where patients are seen as whole. I enjoy listening, validating, and empowering my patients. I combine my treatments with manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, acupuncture, dry needling, cupping, athletic taping, education, and home exercise program. I am a strong believer in evidence-based practice where I combine the best evidence with clinical experience, aiming to find the root cause of the conditions and to achieve the patient’s goals.

Languages I speak are English and Portuguese

Hello! My name is Silvia Saraiva (she/her). I am a registered physiotherapist and have special in... Read More