MEET THE TEAM
Shyamala Kiru
DMin, RP, RMFT I Clinic Director & Strategist, aka Chief Cheerleader
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.
Marcie Evans
Director of Clinic Operations, aka Ship Captain
Starting therapy can be intimidating. I’m here to make things simple. I want to make your first and every step along the way with the Kiru Wellness Clinic as easy and enjoyable as possible.
Please give me a call – or send me an email – I will answer any and all questions that you have about our services.
I will help you decide what modality (individual, couple or family) best fits your needs and schedule your first appointment. My job is to make your journey as seamless as possible.
I enjoy an active lifestyle that includes hikes with friends, great food, coffee, and walking my new French Bulldog, Louie. I love to laugh, listen, and look for the small joys in life.
I look forward to supporting you as you start this journey.
Charlene Blanchard
MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Q), aka, Brain Re-programmer
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!
Emily MacIver
MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Q), aka, Change Maven
Through an individualized and collaborative therapeutic approach, I am committed to working with individuals, couples and families who are struggling with anger management, grief/loss, eating disorders, relationship issues as well as emotional distress. It is my goal to explore your strengths while developing appropriate strategies and resources for maximizing your potential.
Along with having completed the academic portion of my Master’s in Counselling Psychology, I hold an Honors Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, as well as a certificate in Communication Disorder Assisting. Over the past six years, I have worked within the educational field, working with students who have behavioural, developmental and speech needs. It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I join the Kiru Wellness team while I complete the requirements to become a Registered Psychotherapist.
When not working or studying, you will find me outdoors, running, playing baseball, hockey or skiing with my family. It is my children and my husband who inspire and motivate me each day to stay true to my values, beliefs and to continue my journey toward self-awareness.
Katherine McNichol
MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Q), aka, Confidence Builder
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.
I am excited to join the Kiru Wellness team as I complete my requirements to become a Registered Psychotherapist. 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!