Education and Training
Rabiya completed her Master’s level education at the University of Toronto in Counselling Psychology with a focus on Global Mental Health and is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Before venturing into licensure, Rabiya had developed the competency as a helping professional through mentoring students and adults, working as a responder for the distress centres of greater Toronto and volunteering at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Throughout her training and professional experience, Rabiya has had the privilege of working with people from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, age groups and countries. She finds herself extremely fortunate to be trusted with having a part in her clients’ lives.
Therapeutic Approach
Rabiya believes that pain is undeniably a part of all human experience — but we don’t always have to struggle with carrying it. Rabiya’s focus is on supporting her clients in understanding and processing their pain, and worries, while appreciating the present, and working towards a healthier future.
Rabiya views therapy as a journey that the client and therapist embark on together. Her psychotherapy practice is rooted in evidence-based methods, tailored to fit individual experiences, considering her client’s needs, suffering and aspirations.
Rabiya utilizes techniques from various therapeutic modalities including:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Narrative Therapy
- Mindfulness
Rabiya believes that a strong and empathic therapeutic relationship is essential for positive change. Hence, she strives to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions. Understanding the importance of cultural and social contexts including religion, family, interpersonal and workplace dynamics, Rabiya aims to provide culturally competent psychotherapy.
Rabiya has multiple years of experience supporting clients with various concerns, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Emotion dysregulation
- Interpersonal relationships & conflict
- Self-esteem
- Stress management
Languages
- ● Urdu
- ● Hindi
- ● English
Personal Background
Rabiya moved to Canada as an undergraduate student at the University of Toronto about 10 years ago, where she started out studying economics but quickly realized that her passion lies elsewhere. Having lived most of her life in Pakistan, where therapy was still very stigmatized and mostly unacceptable, Rabiya had witnessed emotional suffering, both personally and around her, being brushed under the carpet. She wanted to find out: how can we understand and alleviate the emotional pain that troubles our hearts and minds? This led her to pursue her training in the mental health field. Rabiya acknowledges that it takes immense courage to allow someone to witness your vulnerabilities and she deeply values her client’s strength in showing up for themselves. Hearing your story and supporting you in your personal journeys is a responsibility and privilege that she cherishes deeply.