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.

Ellis Nicolson

Clinical Supervisor [MDiv, RP, RMFT]

Ellis Nicolson comes with 17 years of clinical experience and expertise in individual, couple and family therapy. Ellis is a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Marriage and Family Therapist with advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Ellis is passing along his unique skill set to the incredible team at Kiru Wellness Clinic as a Clinical Supervisor.

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

Cheyanne D'Souza

Reduced Rate Therapy -Book Now!

DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

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

Issues: Anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, emotional regulation, relationship issues, eating disorders, parent/teen coaching.

Starting therapy can be a daunting process, particularly if you feel like you are not ready. Apprehension is common as digging in deep and talking about your struggles and challenges can be uncomfortable. From personal experience, I understand the courage it takes to begin therapy which is why I strive to use an empathetic and compassionate approach with each client. My goal as a therapist is to collaboratively help clients develop constructive coping skills and utilize the resources and tools they have in order to reach their full potential.

I believe an important aspect of therapy is taking the time to develop a strong therapeutic relationship so that clients feel comfortable expressing their concerns. I actively work to create a safe and comfortable environment unique to the client’s needs so they can grow and reach their therapeutic goals.

Professional Background:

Cheyanne is a Master’s Level Therapist who is currently working towards her Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Cheyanne has extensive personal experience with self-care, counselling, yoga and meditation. This experience allows her to empathize and support clients with a unique perspective.

Outside of work:

I do my best to incorporate self-care activities in my lifestyle including yoga, Pilates, guided meditation, and journaling. I also enjoy travelling and immersing myself in other cultures through trying local foods, exploring beyond tourist attractions, and learning about the culture’s history and practices.

Rochelle Benny Gerard

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DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist

DEGREE: M.A. Cand.

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

Issues: Depression, anxiety, stress, relationship, identity and self-esteem issues, life transitions, parent/teen coaching.

Therapy can be intimidating and as your therapist I will provide warmth, empathy and unconditional positive regard throughout your personal journey. I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples and families throughout the therapeutic process.

My goal is to help you develop long lasting life changes by enhancing your strengths, developing healthy coping skills and habits and improving your overall quality of life. I strive to ensure that you feel heard, validated and can comfortably express your concerns while building the confidence and independence you need to successfully handle future life challenges.

I have extensive experience working with diverse clients of all ages using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Throughout my experience, I have valued building the therapeutic relationship as it is the most vital aspect of therapy and have helped clients successfully achieve their therapeutic goals.

Professional Background:

Rochelle 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 worked at the Canadian Mental Health Association as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Coach, helping individuals experiencing depression, anxiety and stress through the use of CBT workbooks.

Outside of work:

I enjoy self-care activities and adventurous hobbies like hiking, swimming and outdoor activities along with reading and dancing. I have a passion for spending quality time with family and friends watching movies and travelling.

Yasmin Goldie

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DESIGNATION: Master’s Level Therapist

DEGREE: M.A., Cand.

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

Issues: Anxiety, depression, relationship distress, trauma, mood disorders, situational crisis.

I am committed to a non-judgmental, client-centered approach to support individuals and couples. I look forward to listening to your unique story and working collaboratively with you to find your inner strength, confidence, and resilience. I imagine your problems being carried around like a heavy backpack that is weighing you down. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and an Emotionally Focused (EFT) approach to help unpack that backpack and explore the solutions together. I especially enjoy sharing practical skills to help reframe your thinking and improve communication in all your relationships.

Professional Background:

Yasmin is a Master’s Level Therapist who is currently working towards her Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Yasmin holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BScN, RN). She is a Mental Health Nurse working with hospitalized individuals and works as a Crisis Nurse in the Emergency Department. Yasmin has experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship difficulties.

Outside of work:

I am from a bi-cultural family, and I have been married for over 30 years with two grown children. This has given me an understanding of the many ups and downs of life and relationships. I enjoy traveling and have an interest in culture, food, and art. I love watching British comedy shows, writing, and hiking.

Brianna Mainprize

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DESIGNATION: Associate Therapist

DEGREE: M.A.

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

Issues: Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, perfectionist tendencies, self-exploration, situational crisis, and relationship distress.

I understand therapy can feel uncomfortable, and change can feel scary.

I’ve been there…

I am enthusiastic but have a calm and compassionate approach. By using a non-judgemental and client centred perspective throughout the therapeutic process, I strive to ensure that you feel heard and can comfortably express your concerns.

My approach is holistic, while using an evidence based cognitive behavioural perspective and narrative therapy perspective. My goal is to help build your strengths, develop positive coping skills, and assist you to live up to your full potential!

I believe long lasting change happens when challenges and strengths are validated in a supportive and therapeutic space.

Professional Background:

Brianna is in the process of being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who graduated from Yorkville University with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. She has been practicing at Kiru Wellness Clinic since 2020. Prior to this, she worked in acute and long term treatment settings with adult and adolescent mental health, addictions, and eating disorders.

Outside of work: Self-love and personal development are big values of mine. I enjoy keeping physically active as I believe movement connects the mind, body, and soul. As a young woman I understand the skills that help build healthy body image, confidence, relationship management and boundary setting.

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.

Charlene Blanchard

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DESIGNATION: Registered Psychotherapist

DEGREE: M.A.

Client Focus: Adults, Couples, Families, Parent Coaching

Issues: Relationship and couples challenges, anxiety, eating disorders, self-esteem, impostor syndrome, ADHD, depression, trauma, codependency.

I have a passion for long-term change to mindset, thoughts and core beliefs: crushing negative self-talk and reprogramming outdated blueprints that leave us feeling stuck, not in control, angry, alone and unable to reach our full potential.

Working with couples, I also have a special interest in helping them understand the unique conflict cycle and individual attachment styles that are keeping them locked in painful patterns of distress and conflict.

A healthy mindset and thriving relationships are essential for overall success.

I believe that therapy is an active, engaging experience. I will meet you with energy and compassion to help facilitate your change and growth. I'm excited to work with you!

Professional Background:

Charlene 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 2018. Prior to this, she worked as a Mental Health Worker and Crisis Counsellor, serving multifaceted populations through one-on-one counselling, therapeutic art based programming and group facilitation.

Outside of work:

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.