MEET THE TEAM

Administrative and Leadership Team

Shyamala Kiru

Clinic Director [DMin, RP, RMFT]

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

Charlene Lekx

Reduced Rate Therapy -Book Now!

DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist

DEGREE: MDiv Cand.

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

Issues: Relationship and couples challenges, family distress, difficult life transitions, stress, parent/teen coaching, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, and emotional regulation.

Choosing therapy takes courage and an intention towards your own personal growth and well-being, and I am here to help you with that. Using an integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), family systems, and attachment focused approach, I will share practical skills and resources to help you improve your life and relationships. I look forward to joining you on this leg of your therapeutic journey, listening to your story, supporting you as you create goals, and cheering you on as you experience breakthroughs in the various aspects of your life.

Professional Background:

Charlene is a Master’s Level Therapist who is currently working towards her Master’s Degree in Clinical Counselling from Tyndale University. Charlene holds an Honors Double Major in Sociology and Communication, and a Master’s Degree in Sociology and Equity Studies in Education. She is a certified life coach who has experience supporting others through tools like self-care, mindfulness and grounding techniques, in order to help them build self-compassion and resiliency into their lives.

Outside of work:

I am part of a bi-racial family, and have been married for 19 years with two children ages twelve and thirteen. I love listening to podcasts, travelling, eating delicious food, spending time in nature, and watching funny movies with my family.

Elaine Dickens

Reduced Rate Therapy -Book Now!

DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist - Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

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

Issues: Anxiety, self-compassion, ASD, depression, relationship issues, and trauma

I am committed to working collaboratively with you to set goals and achieve personal success. I believe that everyone is resilient, but that doesn’t mean life isn’t hard. Creating an open, safe and supportive environment is my goal. My approach to counselling draws on CBT, solution focused and existential therapies. I believe that understanding your values is key to building a strong supportive alliance with you. I am honoured when clients share their stories with me.

Professional Background:

Elaine is a Master’s level therapist who is currently working toward her Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She began her career as a Child and Youth Worker. Elaine has an extensive background in Applied Behavioural Analysis and an undergraduate degree in Psychology. Elaine is an adult educator and Triple P facilitator. Having worked for over two decades in the diversability sector, Elaine has a special interest in working with neurodiverse clients.

Outside of work:

As a mom of two children, I have humbly leaned into my struggles to thrive and grow. I consider myself a lifelong learner and enjoy reading, cycling, and running. On the weekends I am likely in the kitchen with one of my kids or hiking with my dog. My self care routine keeps me grounded and focused. I am a coffee and outdoor enthusiast and appreciate a good podcast recommendation.

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.

Katelyn Stewart

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DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist - Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

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

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

I strive to create a safe and non-judgemental space where I can meet you where you are and help you develop strong coping skills, build healthy relationships, regulate your emotions and recognize your resilience and strength.

Through years of personal experience supporting a family member with mental health challenges, teaching yoga and mindfulness to people from all walks of life, and volunteering with CAMH in the Family Resource Centre, I realized my passion for helping those that are struggling in all areas of their lives.

I want to support you in your journey of personal growth and exploration in order to meet your individual goals. I know first hand how difficult it can be to ask for help, but how rewarding and fulfilling life can be when you do.

Professional Background:

Katelyn is a Master’s Level Therapist who is currently working towards her Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Prior to this, she supported families who have been impacted by mental illness at the Family Resource Centre at CAMH. She holds a certificate in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Yoga and Fitness for Mental Health, and has experience leading one-on-one and group classes to help individuals who struggle with anxiety, stress and low mood.

Outside of work:

Cultivating a healthy routine and taking care of my mental and physical health so I can help others is extremely important to me. I love a good book recommendation, cooking something new and spending time outside with my family and friends.

Akanksha Kulkarni

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DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist - Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

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

Issues: Parent/teen coaching, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, self-exploration, career changes, emotional regulation, life transitions.

We all experience circumstances in our lives that can be challenging to manage, and I understand that choosing 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 emotions while accessing your strengths.

By incorporating a solution focused approach, I will 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 Master’s Level Therapist who is currently working towards her Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She also supervises a mental health program facilitating a range of supports and services to a multifaceted population. Prior to this, she has experience providing IBI (intensive behavioural intervention) and ABA (applied behavioural analysis) therapy to children and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Outside of work:

I practice mindfulness as my daily dose of sunshine. I enjoy reading books, watching movies, exploring different cuisines, travelling and creating opportunities to share memories with family and friends. My biggest joy is a hot cup of coffee with a book and my dog curled up next to me!