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Stella Thiru is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with Ontario's College of Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO). As a South Asian mental health professional, she recognizes the deep-rooted stigma surrounding mental health within many communities and is passionate about fostering open, judgment-free conversations. With a background in early childhood education and extensive experience supporting neurodiverse individuals, she offers a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy. Stella specializes in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and life transitions. She integrates evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs. Beyond therapy, Stella is dedicated to making mental health support more accessible, particularly for those who may hesitate to seek help due to cultural expectations. Through her private practice, Start Healing In Psychotherapy, she creates a safe, supportive space where clients can break free from societal pressures and focus on healing. She also expands mental health accessibility through digital resources and self-guided therapeutic tools. With warmth, professionalism, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity and human development, Stella confidently empowers clients to embrace their healing journey.
When someone asks, How are you? Do you automatically say good—even when you’re not? Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or family conflicts. Stress and emotional exhaustion can leave you feeling lost, frustrated, or disconnected. You might be carrying the weight of expectations, wondering if life could feel more peaceful and fulfilling. I provide a client-centered approach in a supportive space, tailoring therapy to your unique needs. By building on your strengths, we’ll develop strategies to manage stress, navigate life’s transitions, and strengthen relationships. Together, we’ll work toward emotional well-being, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of hope. These challenges don’t have to define your journey. Healing is possible. With the right support, even small steps toward self-compassion and change can lead to lasting transformation. Let’s navigate this path together toward greater balance and emotional well-being. You’re not alone, and I got you!
Master of Arts Counselling Psychology | Yorkville University, 2024; Bachelor of Arts in Psychology | University at Buffalo, 2019
Asian
Multicultural, White culture, Asian culture
English and Tamil
Catholicism, Hinduism, Christianity, Buddhism, Islam
None listed
Nothing to see here :)
Virtual Only
Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum depression/anxiety
Trauma, Stress, Social anxiety, Socioeconomic issues, Self harm, Self esteem/self worth, Second or third generation immigrant experience, Premartial counseling, Racial/cultural identity, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Postpartum depression, Pregnancy and/or infant loss, Phobias, Panic attacks, Parenting, Neurodivergence, Nutrition, Life transitions, Midlife stress, Intercultural/interfaith relationships, Insomnia, Infertility, Gender identity, Grief and/or loss, Highly sensitive people, First generation immigrant experience, Disordered eating, Divorce counseling, Family counseling, Depression, Dating, Couples counseling, Career counseling/coaching, Caring professionals, Chronic illness or pain, Codependency, Burnout, Bullying, Blended families, Coparenting, Step parenting, Body image, Bicultural or multicultural experience, Autism spectrum, Anxiety, Abuse, Adolescents/teens, Adoption, Aging, Anger management
Affirming, Holistic, Challenging, Passionate, Empowering
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment based, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Emotionally focused therapy (EFT), Family systems, Mindfulness based, Internal family systems (IFS), Narrative, Gottman method, Psychodynamic, Solutions-focused brief therapy, Trauma-focused, Strengths-based therapy
Nothing to see here :)
$120
/
Individual Session
$150
/
Couples Session
$150
/
Family Session
Offers sliding scale spots
Stella is an empathetic and skilled therapist who makes her clients feel seen and heard. She creates a warm, judgment free space where real transformation can happen. With her thoughtful, personalized approach, every session feels meaningful and impactful. I highly recommend Stella to anyone looking for real, positive change.
Stella truly embodies what it means to be a compassionate and supportive therapist. Stella cares about her clients and has such a gift in making others feel heard, seen, and understood. If you're looking for a therapist that will create a comfortable and non-judgmental space to begin your therapeutic journey, I strongly recommend Stella!
Stella is a dedicated and compassionate therapist who provides a safe and supportive environment for clients to navigate their emotions. Her blend of evidence-based techniques and genuine empathy fosters meaningful growth and healing. I would highly recommend them to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and caring therapist.
