
Shayesteh Zarieh
Diploma, BSc.
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Let’s be honest—starting therapy isn’t always a bold, empowered choice. Sometimes it’s a quiet, messy, or reluctant one. Maybe you’re simply tired of pretending everything’s fine. This space is for the parts of you that don’t have to be impressive, productive, or put-together. The parts that are unsure, grieving, angry, numb, or just curious about what else is possible.
Background
"Transforming minds, building resilience" - This isn’t about fixing you. It’s about being heard, being seen, and learning how to work with your defenses rather than against them. We build resilience together—through insight, safer coping, and compassionate exploration. I hold dual degrees in Psychology and Health Policy, with certifications from the University of Toronto and TICP. With 7+ years in social service and healthcare, I bring both depth and practicality to the work. My lens is psychodynamic, relational, and culturally aware; especially for those navigating identity, burnout, or complex family dynamics.
Your therapeutic experience with me
Therapy with me is spacious and client-led. I follow your pace, your stories, your associations; because the way you speak reveals more than any structured checklist ever could. I bring a calm, grounding presence, with warmth and just enough humour to keep things human. Clients often tell me they feel deeply heard, gently challenged, and surprised by how much more they uncover; sometimes leaving with better questions, not just answers. We don’t rush to “fix” anything. Instead, we explore what’s underneath with curiosity, care, and emotional honesty.
Areas of expertise
These represent my core areas of expertise, backed by specialized training and extensive clinical experience.

Career & Life Transitions

Self-esteem & Self-worth

Anxiety & Worry

Interpersonal Relationships

Personal Growth

Emotional Regulation
Therapeutic approaches
These are my primary therapeutic approaches, backed by specialized training and extensive clinical experience.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Strength-based Approach

Emotion-focused Therapy

Motivational Interviewing
I also incorporate these evidence-based approaches when clinically appropriate:

Attachment Lens

Trauma-informed Therapy

Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Client communities & cultural expertise
These are the client communities and cultural backgrounds I have specialized experience supporting.
Client populations I serve

Millenials

Young Adults

Adults
Cultural expertise

Middle Eastern

Newcomer And Refugee
Professional credentials

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
- No.14309
College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
Educational background

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Toronto Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis, Canada

BSc. Psychology
York University, Canada