MEET THE TEAM
Shyamala Kiru
Clinic Director & Strategist, aka Chief Cheerleader [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.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, and a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, I've served on the Board of Directors for the Ontario Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I hold a Masters in Counselling and a Doctorate in Marriage and Family.
My goal each day is to laugh with my husband and inspire my daughter.
I passionately serve my amazing team of clinicians and all our clients by lending my direction, expertise and strategy to all cases.
Megan Ebert
Clinic Coordinator, aka Ship Captain [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.
From your first phone call or email I will answer your questions, help you decide what services would best suit your needs, and get you started with a member of our team.
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!
Charlene Blanchard
Senior Therapist (RP), aka, Brain Re-Programmer [MA, Counseling Psych.]
I have a passion for long-term change in mindset, thoughts and core beliefs. Crippling negative self-talk fuels low-confidence, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and other mental health challenges that leave us feeling stuck: keeping us angry, alone and unable to reach our potential. A negative mindset impedes communication style, causing us to feel disconnected and destroys our personal relationships.
I work with individuals from an evidence based cognitive behavioural perspective, while integrating emotions focused and narrative therapy. A healthy mindset is essential for emotional regulation, personal growth, healthy relationships and overall success!
I work with couples from an emotion focused perspective and have a special interest in helping couples understand the unique conflict cycle and individual attachment styles that are keeping them stuck in painful patterns of communication. This type of therapy can be intense, but is also deeply rewarding and proven to be extremely effective in creating sustainable change for couples.
My clinical background includes Private Practice, Mental Health Worker and Crisis Counsellor, serving multifaceted populations through one-on-one counselling, programming and group facilitation. I love facilitating therapeutic art based workshops! In addition to a Master’s level degree in Counselling Psychology, I hold a degree in Psychology as well as a diploma in Social Service Work.
I am curious, constantly learning and always seeking out new knowledge and research in this ever changing field!
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.
I’m excited to work with you to facilitate change and growth!
Katherine McNichol
Associate Therapist (RP), aka, Confidence Builder [MA, Counseling Psych.]
I am committed to using a collaborative, individualized approach throughout the therapeutic process, supporting individuals, couples and families experiencing emotional distress, social isolation, grief/loss, and relationship issues. I strive to ensure that you feel heard and can comfortably express your concerns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and maximize the resources and tools available to you.
I began my therapeutic career by working with trauma victims abroad. This passion led me to work with children and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder as a behaviour therapist providing IBI (intensive behavioural intervention) and ABA (applied behavioural analysis) services. Over the last 5 years I have also worked at the Telecare Distress Line and the Canadian Mental Health Association supporting individuals on their road to recovery.
In addition to a Master’s level degree in Counselling Psychology, I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
I am an avid traveler and enjoy spending my spare time exploring the wonders of the world. I look forward to supporting you towards greater emotional and relational health!
Brianna Mainprize
Master’s Level Therapist, aka Self Love Guru [MA Counseling Psych., Cand.]
I am committed to using a non-judgemental and client centred approach throughout the therapeutic process, supporting individuals, couples and families experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and other life challenges that leave you feeling stuck and defeated. I strive to ensure that you feel heard and can comfortably express your concerns. My goal is to help you enhance your strengths, develop positive coping skills, and to help you live up to your full potential.
I began my therapeutic career by working with eating disorders, mood disorders and personality disorders at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences. This passion led me to work with individuals and families as a behaviour therapist for cases of dementia, anxiety, and depression. I have also worked at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre supporting adults in the inpatient mental health and addiction unit.
I am excited to join the Kiru Wellness team as I complete my requirements to become a Registered Psychotherapist. In addition to having completed all of my academic requirements for my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, with a specialization in Mental Health.
I enjoy keeping physically active. I have a passion for the outdoors and spending time with my family (this includes a lot of laughter and delicious food). I look forward to supporting you towards greater emotional and relational health!
Cecilia Mayta
Master’s Level Therapist, aka Change Maven [MA Counseling Psych., Cand.]
As a client-centered, strength-based therapist I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples and families experiencing self-esteem issues, relationship conflict, parenting challenges, life transitions, and difficulty regulating emotions. I have a particular interest in empowering youth as they discover themselves and develop life skills on their path towards adulthood. In the same way, I aspire to work with their support system as they navigate the crucial and enriching stage of adolescence.
I practice from a cognitive behavioural perspective with a focus on acceptance, emotion regulation and mindfulness. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate environment where you feel heard and validated, and am committed to facilitating long-term change. I wholeheartedly believe that we all have the resources within ourselves to face any situation and overcome any challenge in life. My goal is to empower you to achieve a life based on your values through the discovery of your own inner resources.
Over the last three years I’ve worked with the Canadian Mental Health Association facilitating group sessions for individuals with mental illness lived experience. This opportunity has allowed me to work with people experiencing depression, anxiety and trauma while supporting them to develop healthy and effective coping skills to successfully navigate their lives.
I am thrilled to join the Kiru Wellness team as I complete my requirements to become a Registered Psychotherapist. In addition to having completed all of my academic requirements for my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, I hold a Bachelor Degree in Economics.
As a mother of two teenagers, I work hard every day to nurture the bond with my boys through laughter and honest communication. My deep love for nature and passion for adventure are shared with my partner. You will often find us hiking hidden trails, picnicking in front of a pond or lake, or camping in the woods.
I look forward to walking along your side as you discover your strengths and develop your inner resources to create and lead a more purposeful and meaningful life!