Meet Our Team of Mental Health Professionals
At PsyVitalitï, we are proud to have a team of experienced mental health professionals that are here for your every need. Whether you’re in Ontario, Alberta or British Columbia, we have a therapist that can help you on your journey to a better self. All of our licensed therapists are specialized in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), one of the most effective methods of therapy.
Learn more about each member of our diverse team of therapists below. If you want to schedule an appointment with any of our mental health professionals, you can do so through our easy-to-use online booking tool.
Our Founders
Leanna Zozula
Ph.D., Psychologist
Dr. Leanna Zozula is a clinical psychologist and the Clinical Director at PsyMontreal. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from McGil University in 2001, and has extensive experience working in various hospitals and clinics in the United States and Canada. Dr. Zozula conducts sessions both in English and French, helping adults, adolescents and couples navigate difficult life decisions, improve interpersonal relationships, and achieve greater satisfaction in life. Specializing in evidence-based treatments, Dr. Zozula is dedicated to helping her clients feel better, become more adaptive and self-reliant, and make informed, empowered decisions.
Jean-Marc Assaad
Ph.D., Psychologist
Dr. Jean-Marc Assaad is a psychologist and the Director of Prevention & Training Services at PsyMontreal. He regularly provides conferences and trainings in Motivational Interviewing to various governmental agencies and private companies. Dr. Assaad obtained his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from McGill University, where he also taught.
Our Therapists in Ontario
Adrian Gudino
B.Sc., Master of Psychology Candidate
Adrian is in the final semester of his master’s degree in clinical psychology from Adler Graduate Professional School. He has a certificate in Motivational Interviewing as well as trauma informed care. Using CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, he creates a warm, safe space for clients to explore the root causes of their concerns. He has over six years of experience counselling individuals who struggle with addictions, as well as depression and anxiety. Working in the emergency department for the Centre of Addiction and Mental Health has trained him to respond well to any crisis and to help individuals regulate their emotions. Adrian is under the supervision of Dr. Lori Walls, a licensed psychologist. He offers life, academic, health, and sports coaching..
Alexandra Statham
RSW, Master of Social Work
Alex, as a registered social worker and a holder of a master’s degree in social work, has extensive experience working first-hand with street populations, supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, psychosis and substance abuse. Alex focuses on an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed approach, using CBT, DBT and emotion-focused therapy.
Alveena Mathew
B.Sc., Master of Clinical Psychology Candidate
Alveena provides services to individuals facing challenges related to relationships, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Passionate about offering support to those in need, she draws on her experience of helping clients with a wide range of mental health issues. Alveena is working under the supervision of Dr. Lori Walls, Ph.D., Psychologist.
Christine Sterling-Charette
B.A., Master in Clinical Psychology
Christine has completed a Masters in Clinical Psychology and provides therapeutic support for adolescents and adults. Using a trauma-informed lens, Christine aims to create a non-judgemental, safe space for all of her clients. She is trained in CBT as well as Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and aims to help all of her clients feel supported and valued. She is working under the supervision of Dr. Lori Walls, Ph.D., Psychologist. Services offered in English and French.
Jessica Larsen-Halikowski
RSW, Master of Social Work
Jessica is a Registered Social Worker who strives to create a caring, safe, and non-judgmental environment where her clients can heal and improve their wellbeing. Jessica holds a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Toronto and is registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Alberta College of Social Workers. She has been trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. Jessica is passionate about building a collaborative and empowering relationship with her clients to support them in meeting their goals in a way that is aligned with their needs and values.
Leah Reinhartz
RSW, Master of Social Work
Leah Reinhartz is a Registered Social Worker who holds a Master of Social Work degree from Boston College and a Bachelor of Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). She has extensive experience working with individuals who have Anxiety, Depression, Perfectionism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and more. Leah’s therapeutic style is warm, direct, empathic, non-judgmental, and friendly. She has training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Emotional Focused Individual Therapy, and Psychodynamic modalities.
Michelle Lassaline
RSW, Master of Social Work
Michelle is a Registered Social Worker who obtained her Master of Social Work at the University of Windsor. Michelle has experience working with clients facing such challenges as Anxiety, Autism, School Issues, and OCD. She strives to create a safe, validating, empathic space in order to help empower her clients to better confront the challenges they face.
Nina Ahluwalia
RSW, Master of Social Work
Nina is a Registered Social Worker (MSW), Certified Life and Health Coach. She is committed to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and reach their full potential. Nina approaches her work with a biopsychosocial perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in shaping an individual’s health and well-being. She also uses a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques, to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. She has a personal and professional interest in the many benefits of Mindfulness and implements these concepts in her work with her clients. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment where her clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, identify their strengths and challenges, and develop a plan for achieving their goals. She believes in a client-centered approach to social work, where the client is the expert on their own life and the therapist is a guide and support…
Rossana Bisceglia
Ph.D., Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology Candidate
Rossana is a lifelong learner. In addition to her PhD in Developmental Psychology and Education from the University of Toronto, she is currently completing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Rossana has supported families and individuals dealing with dual diagnosis, developmental disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She has also assisted youth and adults experiencing depression and anxiety. Rossana is comfortable with various therapeutic approaches, tailored to client needs and preferences. She aims to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, identify strengths and challenges, and make plans to achieve their goals. Rossana believes in a client-centered approach, viewing clients as experts in their own lives, with the therapist providing guidance and support. Rossana provides psychotherapy under the supervision of Deane Thomas Taylor, Registered Psychotherapist.
Sierra Richards
B.Sc., Master of Psychology Candidate
Sierra holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) degree in human behaviour from McMaster University and is currently completing her Master of Clinical Psychology at the Adler Graduate Professional School.
Sierra is focused on helping clients with stress, relationships, anxiety, depression, gender identity and sexuality, family systems, ADHD, work-life balance and sport-related stressors. She aims to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a trauma-focused approach. She’s committed to providing empathetic, culturally responsive support to all clients, focusing on historically marginalized populations. She has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and the BIPOC population and is passionate about creating a safe, affirming space for healing and growth. She believes that clients are the true experts of their own lives, and her role is to walk alongside them, offering tools and insights to help them tap into their resilience and strengths. Sierra empowers clients, working collaboratively to lift them up and help them confidently navigate life’s difficulties. Her overall goal is to honour each client’s lived experience and provide the kind of personalized care that fosters lasting change. Sierra is under the supervision of Dr. Lori Walls and provides services in English.
Vanessa Laham
B.Sc., Master of Psychology Candidate
Vanessa is a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) in the final semester of her master’s degree in counselling psychology from Yorkville University. She has been working as a psychotherapist at a clinic in downtown Toronto since May, using an integrative approach to help clients primarily with anxiety, depression, suicidality, stress, work-related challenges, and relationship issues. She draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioural therapy and mindfulness, to tailor clients’ sessions based on their goals, preferences, and needs. Vanessa also has two years of experience working as a crisis responder for the National Suicide Helpline and Kids Help Phone. From these experiences, she learned that behind every struggle lies a story of vulnerability, fears, worries, aspirations, and resilience. As such, she aims to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to share their story, explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and create positive change in their life.
Our Therapists in Alberta
Alexandra Brunet
B.Comm., Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology Candidate
Alexandra offers cognitive behavioral therapy and a client-centered approach. She is passionate about helping others find wellness in all aspects of their lives. She works with clients looking to overcome anxiety, conquer depression, and work through relationship issues as well as many other obstacles. Alex offers services in English, under the supervision of Jessica Martinez Perez, MSW, and Jean-Marc Assaad, psychologist.
Cora McLachlan
M.Couns., Psychologist
Cora is a Registered Psychologist on our Calgary team. She obtained a master’s degree from Athabasca University in 2014 and since then, has been working hard to help clients of all ages achieve their goals. She has experience across multiple fields including schools, hospitals, agencies, addiction counselling and private practice settings. Cora’s approach to counselling includes Cognitive-Behavioural, Solution Focused and attachment-based approaches.
Jason Grieve
RSW, Master of Social Work
Jason holds a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Calgary, specializing in mental health and addictions. Drawing upon his background in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, counselling, community outreach, and crisis intervention, Jason is dedicated to fostering support, empowerment, and resilience-building for individuals in need. Jason offers an environment of empathy, validation, and hope, where clients can safely explore their emotions and experiences to overcome challenges, build inner strength, and embrace positive change.
Jodie Luddu
RSW, Master of Social Work
Jodie completed her Master’s of Social Work at the University of Calgary. She has a passion for promoting mental well-being and supporting individuals in their journey towards healing. With a diverse background that includes international travel experiences, Jodie brings a unique perspective to her clinical practice. Jodie uses various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and approaches grounded in Attachment Theory. Jodie is committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where clients can explore their inner strengths, fostering growth and transformation.
Rita Motta
RSW, Master of Social Work
Rita holds a Master’s of Clinical Social Work from the University of Calgary. She has over six years of diverse social work and case management experience, focusing on mental health with a variety of populations. Rita has particular expertise and understanding in working with women and the 2SLGBTQ+ community through the facilitation of support groups and individual support for both communities. Practicing through strengths-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive behavioral perspectives and with an emphasis on inclusion and diversity, Rita welcomes the individuals she works with into a non-judgemental and empathic space.
Shane Grant
B.A., Master of Social Work Candidate
Shane is committed to creating an environment of growth and transformation for each client, using therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness. He offers services in English, under the supervision of Jessica Martinez Perez, MSW and Jean-Marc Assaad, psychologist.
Shiya Mangat
B.A., Master of Social Work Candidate
Shiya has over five years of experience in social work. Her practice lens is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy primarily. She is always open to grow in new directions to meet client needs therapeutically. Shiya works to create a therapeutic experience for individuals to thrive. She is currently working under the supervision of Jessica Martinez Perez, MSW and Jean-Marc Assaad, psychologist and offers her services in English.
Our Therapists in British Columbia
Amanjot K. Gill
RSW, Master of Social Work
Amanjot assists and supports individuals to reach improved functioning at their own pace, and to be strong and skilled experts of their own needs. She helps build unique and practical tool kits which are versatile in the workplace, during panic or stressful situations, while improving communication with people in life, through chronic health conditions, etc. Amanjot is a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social work and a specialization in Leadership and Management from the University of Toronto
Andrea Moreno-Goertzen
RSW, Master of Social Work
Andrea is a registered social worker who is dedicated to creating a space that is caring, safe, and focused on individual strengths. With an extensive background in family social work, she understands how anxiety, depression, family relationships, and daily stressors may impact her clients’ lives. She also has experience in academic advising, which allows her to help clients with decision making, school stress, and creating a work-life balance. She uses a variety of psychotherapy modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness-based techniques to support clients in their journey towards wellness. She graduated with a Master of Social Work degree in clinical counseling from the University of British Columbia.
Christina Chediac
RSW, Master of Social Work
Christina obtained her Master of Social Work degree from the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan Campus and has worked in hospital as a healthcare social worker as well as in the community where she completed several counselling internships. She has supported individuals experiencing various challenges including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, serious diagnoses, caregiver burnout, substance use concerns and disordered eating. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and client-centered, utilizing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to work with individuals to help them realize their goals.
John Segui
RSW, Master of Social Work
John (he/him) is a Registered Social Worker who obtained his Master of Social Work at the University of Toronto specializing in mental health. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), he helps individuals navigate through their anxiety, depression, stress, sexual and gender identity (LGBTQ2S+), and relationships. His philosophy is rooted in building a genuine authentic and trusting relationship with his client’s. John collaboratively works with his clients to figure coping strategies to help deal with life’s challenges and to achieve their goals and full potential.
Jonathan Carter
RSW, Master of Social Work
Jonathan is a registered social worker with the BC College of Social Workers who obtained his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Toronto and his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of British Columbia. Jonathan utilizes multiple modalities in therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and Brief Solution-Focused therapy. Jonathan assists with navigating issues such as depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges to achieve a greater sense of wellbeing.
Katherine Giebelhaus
RSW, Master of Clinical Social Work
Kate uses a holistic wellness and trauma-informed approach in her practice to treat anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, motivation and relationship conflicts. She aims to help you to heal and live life fully. During your time together, she will use a mix of cognitive-behavioural and dialectical techniques, ACT, Narrative, and somatic interventions to help you challenge unhelpful habits, heal from harmful experiences and achieve wellness.
Kate has 8 years of experience in the mental health field in roles like Therapist, Mental Health Worker, and Career Educator. Through her work and personal life, she has witnessed the pervasiveness of trauma which inspires her to lead a trauma-informed practice, and to create a holistic, non-judgmental and a “you” centered space in which you are empowered to improve your wellness and achieve your goals
Kim McWilliam
RSW, Master of Social Work
Kim is a Registered Social Worker who completed her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Toronto in 2014. Since then she has worked in a variety of clinical settings, using Cognitive Behavioral, Emotion Focused, and Solution Oriented approaches. Kim has counselled people through a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, and transition. Her style is warm, collaborative, and affirming. Kim believes counselling can guide people towards greater self-awareness, empowering them to make positive change and ultimately experience a greater sense of wellbeing.
Rachel Braund
RSW, Master of Social Work
Rachel is a Registered Social Worker in British Columbia who has worked with individuals struggling with addiction, mental health, and high performance anxiety including burnout. Rachel received her MSW from the University of Toronto and has been trained in various evidence based modalities. She incorporates social justice into her practice as she welcomes her clients into a safe space to navigate challenging times. Rachel identifies as a white immigrant and has first hand experience navigating the many intersectional systems and experiences. Rachel’s work is rooted in trauma informed, systems theory.
Samantha Hunt
RSW, Master of Social Work
Samantha Hunt, MSW, RSW has been practicing for 6 years in a variety of settings, including healthcare and inpatient treatment. She brings compassion and understanding and strives to help clients feel capable and confident of managing their mental health on their own. Samantha’s approach is built on educating clients, skill building, and empowering clients to build their own vision of their future.
Trina Kushnerik
RSW, Master of Social Work
Trina seeks to create a collaborative, non-judgemental space for clients to explore themselves and their life challenges. She aims to empower clients with new skills and insight to help them grow and thrive. She uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. She recognizes there is no one-size-fits-all approach and collaborates with clients to find an approach that will uniquely fit with them. Trina completed her Master of Social Work degree at the University of British Columbia and is a Registered Social Worker in British Columbia.
Virginia McConchie
RSW, Master of Social Work
Virginia is a Registered Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago. She has experience helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and addictions. Virginia works collaboratively with clients to create a safe space where clients can feel heard and understood, and ready to address the challenges in their lives. She is here to listen, support you, and work with you to build the internal tools and insight that will help you grow and change your life for the better.