Meet The Team
Don't hesitate to reach out via email at info@rainbowcounselling.ca if you have any questions.
Mycha Haughton-Lewis
(she/her)
Associate Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hi there! I'm Mycha (she/her). I strive to create a welcoming and safe environment, free of judgment, so you can comfortably share your needs and goals. In my practice, I help clients with a variety of issues including ADHD, self-identity, enhancing interpersonal relationships, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. I take a client-centred approach, incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, and Person-Centred approaches to best support you.
Supports: Individuals
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I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and by working collaboratively, we can enhance the therapeutic relationship and achieve positive outcomes. Cultural humility is very important to me, and I ensure that your cultural values and beliefs are always respected and integrated into our work together.
If you're interested and would like to begin your therapeutic journey with me, please reach out by email, phone or using the website on my profile to book a consultation. I look forward to connecting with you!
Noor Bawa
(she/they)
Associate Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
As a psychotherapist who is queer, BIPOC, and neurodivergent, I recognize the unique struggles of living in an oppressive society. My practice specializes in working with marginalized individuals who are navigating concerns such as intergenerational trauma, interpersonal difficulties, neurodivergence, etc. With a deep understanding of the intersectionality of identity and mental health, I strive to empower those who have been marginalized. I aim to provide you with a safe and comfortable space where we can collaborate towards your goals for healing and growth. I practice psychotherapy from a person-centered, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens. It’s crucial to me that I meet you where you are at and support you in nurturing your growth as a human being.
Supports: Individuals
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As per my therapeutic practice, I utilize an eclectic/integrative approach which draws from various modalities such as; Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Humanistic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy & Internal Family Systems. Additionally, I also incorporate insights from Polyvagal Theory and Attachment Theory.
I invite you to reach out for a free consultation if you have any questions or would like to explore how we can collaborate. My goal is to support you in your journey towards healing and growth however I can.
Avery Briggs
(they/he)
Associate Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hello! I'm Avery, and I'm glad you're here. I believe therapy should be collaborative, non-punitive, and accessible. In our therapeutic journey together, you can expect a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space where your experiences, emotions, and challenges are genuinely heard and respected. I view you as the expert in your own life and as an equal partner in this journey. Our work is grounded in the belief that you possess the knowledge and wisdom to navigate your unique path to well-being - you just might need some help getting there. My passion lies in helping trans folks thrive, however I also work in areas such as anxiety, depression, family conflicts, C-PTSD, 2LGBTQIA+, stress, and trauma. I draw heavily from person-centered therapies and take a comprehensive and anti-oppressive approach to our work together. I am an abolitionist and committed advocate for liberation for all.
If you're looking for a therapist who takes a holistic approach to mental well-being and believes in the power of talk therapy to offer hope through exploration, we might be a good match. I wish you all the best wherever your therapeutic journey may take you.
Supports: Individuals & Couples
Ayesha Masud
(she/they)
Associate Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Ayesha Masud (she/they) is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a Master of Arts in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy and a Bachelor of Honours Health Science in Health and Health Systems. Ayesha has over seven years of experience as a peer support worker, shelter worker, and community counsellor working with a diverse range of communities and presenting issues.
Supports: Individuals, Couples & Families
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Ayesha is familiar with and can work from a range of modalities including narrative therapy, CBT/DBT, trauma therapy, feminist informed, art-informed therapy, emotion-focused therapy, family and couples therapy. Ayesha specializes in clients who are accessing therapy to address intersectionalities of issues including racializational, intergenerational trauma, gender minoritization, 2SLGBTQ+ identity, mood disorders, ASD, ADHD, diasporic identity, sexual assault and family violence, relationship issues (including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy) inclusive of children, youth, couples, and families.
Ayesha aims to work towards improving resiliency, potential, and adaptability for her clients within the family system. She utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, tailored to the unique needs of each client and their family system. She can support the children and the parents in strengthening relationships, understanding complex mental health issues, improving self-esteem/mood/self-acceptance, and navigating development at each age and stage.
Ayesha believes in the individual and collective community and capacity of each client. She strives to offer a safe and accountable space for her clients that honours the privilege of the therapy journey.
Ayesha is able to offer therapy in English, Urdu, and Hindi.
Tasia Murray
(she/her)
Associate Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
My name is Tasia (she/her), and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). I identify as queer and neurodivergent, with lived experience of mental health challenges. It’s important to me that my clients feel their needs and experiences are being listened to attentively and respectfully, and never discounted. As such, I use neurodivergent-affirming and 2SLGBTQ+ affirming language and practice in addition to a combination of narrative, person-centred, and emotion-focused therapies. This integrative-approach allows me to modify my practice so that it suits each individual client’s needs and goals.
Supports: Individuals
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Everyone brings their own knowledge and experience into the therapeutic space, and I believe that my role as your therapist is to act as your partner and guide; you are the expert in your own life, not me! I will endeavour to prioritize your knowledge and goals while providing you with a safe space to explore the various stories that make up your identity. Some examples of the topics we can explore are: anxiety, depression, sexuality/gender expression, neurodivergent experiences, relationships, communication, self-esteem, and self-compassion. If you decide to work with me, I look forward to helping you discover your unique strengths and explore what makes you “you”.
Jessica Hartig
(she/her)
Associate Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hello! My name is Jessica (she/her), and I am a queer & neurodivergent therapist and artist. My background is in art therapy and I believe in the powerful healing that can come from expressing yourself through creation. I take a trauma-informed and person-centred approach, drawing from multiple modalities to meet each client's unique needs. My practice is informed in polyamorous relationships, kink/BDSM, sex work, sexual abuse/surviving, complex family dynamics and 2SLGBTQIA+ identities. Whether you want to make art or not, come to our sessions as you are and let's work together to get you where you want to be.
Supports: Individuals, Couples & Families
Sandra Jackson
(she/her)
Clinical Intern Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hello, my name is Sandra (she/her). I am a Clinical Intern at Rainbow Counselling, currently completing my Masters of Counselling Psychology degree. As a therapist, I practice through an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and person-centered lens. My approach integrates a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Theory and Narrative Therapy. I am an affirming therapist who supports all communities including 2SLGBTQIA + family and friends, neurodivergent folks, Indigenous folks, people that use drugs, and those who live with Mental health issues. I have lived experience with religious trauma and deconstruction, and welcome those who are challenged by their religious upbringing and current identity, to reach out. Regardless of where you are at and what your goals are, together we will explore, validate and centre your lived experience as you do the hard work of personal growth.
Supports: Individuals
Shanique Vickers
(she/her)
Clinical Intern Therapist
Hello, my name is Shanique. and I am a Clinical Intern Therapist at Rainbow Counselling. I am a Black woman, of Jamaican descent and is passionate about addressing the need of mental health services in BIPOC communities. I aim to empower individuals to become the best versions of themselves.
I work from a holistic, person-centred, and strength-based practice, as well as a 2SLGBTQ+ positive framework. I support individuals with a range of issues such as dealing with depression, anxiety, depression, self-esteem/body image/confidence, racism/discrimination, weight management, and work/life balance.
Supports: Individuals
Jordan Baker
(they/them)
Clinical Intern Therapist
Hello! I’m Jordan (they/them) and I am a clinical intern therapist completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. As a queer, neurodivergent person myself, I understand the importance of working with a therapist who understands your lived experience and its complexities. In my practice, I aim to provide a compassionate and supportive space where we can work together on what matters most to you.
My approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, and incorporates elements of ACT, DBT, narrative therapy, and family systems theory. I have a particular interest in working with folks struggling with trauma, substance use, relationship issues, personality disorders, C-PTSD and 2SLGBTQIA+ issues, however I am happy to work with you on whatever you may bring to the space with you as well. My values are grounded in the principles of anti-oppression and harm reduction, and I strive to provide an affirming space for folks of all communities.
Supports: Individuals
Shantal Baptiste
(she/her)
Clinic Coordinator
Hi, my name is Shantal (she/her) and as a Clinic Coordinator and aspiring therapist, I have grown quite passionate about assisting people from all walks of life on their mental health journey. I hope to enrich the quality of life for all communities by creating a safe, fun and inclusive environment. I am bubbling with energy to foster change and cultivate empowering connections. I am heavily influenced by my Caribbean heritage which values diversity, authenticity and steeped in colourful life experiences. I come with a big heart, open mind and lots of laughs.
I’m your first point of contact at Rainbow Counselling & am here to support you in your therapy journey! You can connect with me directly at info@rainbowcounselling.ca or our clinic’s phone at 289-278-8778. :)
XT Belcastro
(they/them)
Founder & Director
Registered Psychotherapist
My name is XT (they/them) I'm queer & neurodivergent with lived experience with mental health challenges. I hold space for all folks; communities I often work with are: 2SLGBTQ+ folks & family/ those in close relationships with 2SLGBTQ+ & neurodivergent folks. I aim to support you in better connecting & understanding self and I value your lived experience over anything. I value anti-oppressive, person-centered approaches to therapy & believe the relationship is at the core of your process. I'd describe my approach as: relational, trauma-informed, I centre the topics you bring, while affirming fluidity & queering my therapy lens'.
Supports: Individuals, Couples & Families
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I aim to provide space to be wholeheartedly yourself. I take a strengths-based, collaborative approach. I recognize the gaps in mental health care that 2SLGBTQ+ folks face (regardless of folks whom are out to some, not out at all, don’t want to come out, questioning etc.). I work with individuals, couples, polycules/constellations/families.
Topics I can support include but are not limited to: exploration of sexuality/gender, relationships, impacts of trauma, self worth, self-harm, sexual abuse, attachment wounds etc. I believe we are all multifaceted and offer a space without judgement, and my approach includes bringing my authentic self to the space in hopes you are able to do the same!
FAQs
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Consultations can be booked with any member of our team to determine better suitability or fit for counselling. Clinical Intern Therapists offer free 50 minute intake sessions to better support suitability of therapist. Our associate therapists offer free 15-minute consultations to ask any questions that may help you make a decision in moving forward with an intake.
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Intakes are opportunities for you and your therapist to better get to know one another, at whatever pace you are comfortable with. There is no requirement to have to move forward or continue booking with a therapist who you have an intake with.
If you have specific questions about a specific therapists’ style/ approach with intakes, feel free to reach out to info@rainbowcounselling.ca
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Gender identity is a complex and personal aspect of our lives, and it can take time to fully understand and come to terms with. For individuals who identify as transgender or gender non-conforming, seeking support from a gender therapist can be an important step in their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.
In Toronto and throughout Ontario, there are a number of experienced and compassionate gender therapists who specialize in working with individuals who are exploring and affirming their gender identity. These professionals can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to gender.
As a gender therapist Toronto locals can trust, these therapists are often trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, with a focus on helping clients navigate the challenges and complexities of gender identity. Some common therapeutic approaches used by gender therapists include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and narrative therapy.
In addition to providing therapeutic support, gender therapists in Ontario are often able to connect clients with resources and support groups in the local community. This can help individuals build a network of support and find acceptance within their chosen communities.
If you are looking for a gender therapist in Toronto or throughout Ontario, any member on the rainbowcounselling team can support you on your journey towards greater self-understanding and acceptance. If you have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to info@rainbowcounselling.ca or book an intake session directly.