MEET THE TEAM

Administrative and Leadership Team

Shyamala Kiru

Clinic Director [DMin]

For the past 2 decades, I've been dedicated to delivering mental health care that is truly transformative. Our clinical focus includes narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. These models are some of the most effective in creating long-term change.

In addition to being the Clinic Director at Kiru Wellness Clinic, I am a mental health consultant, public speaker and media expert for sources such as Chatelaine, the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail and appeared on a national TV show for close to a decade.

My goal each day is to laugh with my husband and inspire my daughter.

Charlene Blanchard

Director of Training & Practicum Program Supervisor, Registered Psychotherapist [MA, RP]

I am excited to have such a dynamic role at Kiru Wellness clinic! As the Director of Training, I have the immense privilege of providing leadership to our clinicians as well as serving our clients as a Registered Psychotherapist, having practiced at the Kiru Wellness Clinic since 2018. I have a passion for long-term change in mindset. I believe that therapy is an active, engaging experience. I will meet you with energy and compassion to help facilitate your change and growth.

Outside of the clinic, you will typically find me with a cup of tea, moving from one creative project to another. I love spending time with my husband, family and friends and enjoy being outdoors.

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Megan Ebert

Clinic Coordinator [BA, Psych.]

Asking for help can be difficult, or even a bit scary. I’m here to help. My goal is to guide you through the process and make your journey with the Kiru Wellness Clinic easy and comfortable.

I passionately believe that therapy should be as simple and accessible as possible. I take great pride in making sure every step towards receiving your most ideal treatment is met with respect, understanding, and compassion.

When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my husband and animal family (two dogs and two cats). I can also be found singing with my band at local venues, or enjoying the outdoors on one of the many surrounding hiking and walking trails.

I look forward in supporting you in your journey towards transformative wellness!

Clinical Team

Nicole Fayek

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DESIGNATION: Masters Level Therapist

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

Client Focus: Adults, Couples, Families, Children 10+.

Issues: Anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family issues, self-esteem, chronic stress, and negative self-talk.

Life can be challenging, and I believe that everyone deserves a safe space to explore, heal, and grow. Seeking help is the first and most courageous step you can take.

Many unresolved issues can lead to unhealthy and ineffective coping mechanisms. I am here to provide you with that safe and non-judgmental space where we can navigate life’s challenges and build healthy ways of communicating and relating to others.

I aim to provide you with transformative care to help you heal your relationship with yourself and others. I believe it is essential to connect with each client and dig deep into the root of the issue in order to reach their therapeutic goals. I understand it can be difficult to begin therapy – I have also been there – which is why I value approaching each client with compassion and empathy. I am here to walk alongside you in your journey to a better life.

Professional Background:

Nicole is a Master’s Level Therapist who is currently working towards her Master’s Degree in Clinical Counselling from Tyndale University. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Music from the University of Toronto. Prior to this, Nicole worked extensively on multiple research projects at the University of Toronto, primarily researching the impact of music on mental health.

Outside of work:

When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me playing the piano, reading, cooking, or hanging out with my husband and three dogs to unwind! My husband and I also enjoy going on bike rides. I believe it is important to holistically take care of our health by exercising and resting our body, soul, and mind.

Sammantha Huff

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DESIGNATION: Masters Level Therapist - Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

Client Focus: Adults, Couples, Families, Children 10+, Teenagers.

Issues: Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, addictions, relationship and family issues, stress.

No matter the reason behind your choice to seek therapy I want you to know that you are not alone. I will work to help you feel empowered and confident as we walk through your individual story by providing you with tools to navigate your circumstances.

Using a practical approach, rooted in Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Family Systems, we will work together to discuss some of your thoughts, feelings, beliefs to better understand your unique journey towards your desired goals. I truly believe nothing is too big so long as we don’t face things alone.

Professional Background:

Sammantha is a Masters level psychotherapist completing her MA in Clinical Counselling from Tyndale University. Sammantha holds a BA in psychology from Tyndale University and has experience working with trauma victims with Victim Services and the OPP. Over the past ten years Sammantha has dedicated herself to the mental health field. Sammantha has worked extensively with adults as an Admissions Counsellor at the Masters level, helping clients navigate transitions and career choices. She has also had extensive experience providing Applied Behavioural Analysis therapy to children, with a focus on behaviour modification and program implementation. She holds a certificate in Emotion Focused Therapy.

Outside of work:

Outside of Kiru Wellness Clinic I can be found camping with my husband and dog, engaging in any number of creative activities, taking a class to learn something new, or cooking something up in my kitchen. I love doing things that give me an opportunity to unwind and get lost in my passions for outdoors, creativity, and learning. I am excited to hear about the things that you love to do!

Kirsten Miller

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DESIGNATION: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

DEGREE: M.A.

Client Focus: Adults, Couples, Families, Children 10+

Issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, self-esteem, grief, trauma.

Reaching out for support is one of the hardest steps and I do not take this for granted. It is an honour and a privilege to be a part of your journey and it is my goal to create a safe therapeutic space for you to grow and heal that is free from judgment. I want to help you create change that is not only meaningful but lasting. We will do this together through skills development with an emphasis on empowerment. I draw upon CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Existential Therapy and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) approaches. I look forward to working with you and thank you for inviting me to be a part of your healing process.

Professional Background:

Kirsten is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qual.) who graduated from Yorkville University with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. She also holds an Honours BA double majoring in Law and Society and Psychology from York University. Kirsten began her career in Employment Counselling and more recently has had extensive experience in Social Services for the past 12 years working with clients from very diverse backgrounds. She also has previous experience delivering therapeutic riding lessons to both children and youth with special needs.

Outside of Work:

I love the outdoors and when I’m not working you will typically find me riding horses or gardening to decompress. I also enjoy spending quality time with my partner, friends, and family as much as possible. As someone who lives with anxiety, I can relate to the need for finding coping mechanisms that fit your lifestyle and that bring you a renewed sense of joy. Empowerment is key and change doesn’t happen overnight so let’s start exploring strategies and practicing together.

Akanksha Kulkarni

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DESIGNATION: Registered Psychotherapist

DEGREE: M.A.

Client Focus: Adults, Couples, Families, Children 6+, Parent Coaching

Issues: Anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship and family issues, negative self-talk, difficult life transitions, stress and parent/teen coaching.

We all experience circumstances in our lives that can be challenging to manage, and I understand that starting therapy can be a vulnerable and difficult choice.

I want you to know that it is also an empowering choice, and I’m here to support you with that. I believe that therapy is a powerful process that will allow you to shift your experience of life, while accessing your strengths.

Allow me to help you navigate your challenges on this journey of growth and healing. We will work collaboratively to create goals, resolve conflicts and build confidence throughout your therapeutic journey.

Professional Background:

Akanksha is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qual.) who graduated from Yorkville University with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. She started working at the Kiru Wellness Clinic in 2021. Akanksha has training and experience with Applied Behaviour Analysis and over 8 years of experience in the disability sector.

Outside of work:

I strongly believe in the benefits of practicing intentional mindfulness as part of my self-care. When I am not working, you will find me reading a book, listening to a podcast or taking walks with my dog!

Katherine McNichol

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DESIGNATION: Registered Psychotherapist

DEGREE: M.A.

Client Focus: Adults, Couples, Families, Children 6+, Parent Coaching.

Issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, self-esteem, grief, trauma.

Life's challenges can wear you down, making you feel anxious and overwhelmed. If you find yourself overwhelmed with stress, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, I am here to help you develop new, healthier strategies to improve your life. I believe that everyone needs to tell their story and I strive to ensure that you feel heard and can comfortably express your concerns.

Many clients come to see me feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. They’ve been struggling to manage and are coping the best they can, but despite their motivation and effort, their coping skills aren’t working the way they used to. If you’re tired of managing alone and want to find some peace and develop more constructive tools to soothe your emotions, you’ve come to the right place.

If you’re wanting to move past surface-level work, and hoping for deeper transformation, I might be a great fit for you.

Professional Background:

Katherine is a Registered Psychotherapist who graduated from Yorkville University with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. She has been practicing at the Kiru Wellness Clinic since 2019. Prior to this, she was providing IBI (intensive behavioural intervention) and ABA (applied behavioural analysis) therapy to children and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Outside of work:

Self-care, self-love and self-empowerment are important values of mine. As someone who has struggled with anxiety I understand the importance of finding the right outlet to express yourself. I found mine in writing children’s books and I would love to help you find yours.