meet our team of therapists
OUR GOAL AS A THERAPIST TEAM IS TO HELP YOU GROW FROM YOUR STRUGGLES, HEAL FROM YOUR PAIN, AND FIND HOPE TO FEEL BETTER.
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Carina Koletsas
CLINICAL DIRECTOR/THERAPIST
Social Worker
BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES
Adolescent and Adult Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, First Responder Support, Stressful life transitions, Emotional Regulation Issues, Grief, Parenting Support, Relationship Issues -
Anna Maria Giordano
THERAPIST
Social Worker
B.Sc, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health (VIRTUAL ONLY), Couples Therapy, Trauma, Anxiety, Addictions/ Substance Misuse, Intra/interpersonal Conflict, Parenting, Separation & Divorce, First Responders -
Samantha Shore
THERAPIST
Social Worker
MSW, RSW, RSSW
SPECIALTIES
Adult Mental Health, Couples’ and Family Therapy, Trauma, PTSD, First Responders, Grief, Emotional/ Nervous System Dysregulation, Women’s Issues, Substance Use, & Somatic Therapy -
Susan Russell
THERAPIST
Social Worker/Certified Play Therapist
MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES
Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Harm, Trauma, Grief Therapy, Separation and Divorce, Selective Mutism, ADHD, OCD, ODD. -
Daniela Cipullo
THERAPIST
Social Worker
BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Self Harm, Grief, Parenting Challenges, Behavioural Concerns, Separation & Divorce and Relationship Difficulties, -
Vish Kularatnam
THERAPIST
Social Worker
MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm. ADHD, Grief, Trauma, Major Life Transitions, Interpersonal Difficulties, Emotional/Behavioural Concerns, Relationships/Separation & Divorce -
Venice Ruiz
THERAPIST
Social Worker
MSW, RSWSPECIALTIES
Adult Mental Health. Traumatic Loss, General Anxiety, Oncology-Related Anxiety (including Fear of Cancer Recurrence), Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Caregiver Burnout, Major Life Transitions. -
Brittany Hunt
THERAPIST
Social Worker
BSW, MSW, RSWSPECIALTIES
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Emotion Dysregulation, Self-Harm, Parent/Family support, Intimate Partner & Family Violence -
Varenya Kuhathaas
THERAPIST
Social Worker/Registered Play Therapist
MSW, RSWSPECIALTIES
Child, Adolescent & Adult Mental Health, Play Therapy, ADHD, Executive Functioning Skills, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma & EMDR, Parental Support, Grief and Loss, Attachment-Based Issues -
Ken McIntosh
THERAPIST
Social Worker
BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES
Adolescent and Adult Mental Health (VIRTUAL ONLY), LGBTQ+ Issues, Low Self-esteem, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Self Harm, ADHD, Emotional Dysregulation, Gaming Disorders -
Dr. Amber Perry
REGISTERED CLINICAL & SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
Child Psychologist
C.PSYCH.
SPECIALTIES
Comprehensive Psycho-Educational Assessments, and Psychological assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning challenges, giftedness, mental health concerns, anxiety, emotional and behavioural difficulties, developmental concerns, and school-based consultation.
Our team practices with the belief that healing largely comes in the context of the therapeutic relationship and we recognize that authenticity, trust, and safety are essential for successful therapy.
Our approach to trauma therapy is one that allows us to understand our pasts in order to clear a path to our future-opening the door to resilience and healing so that we can transform from surviving to thriving.
Our team of therapists focus on in person, walk and talk and virtual therapy with adults, couples, children and youth, with a specialization in trauma informed practice with families.
We believe that progress and healing are deeply connected to the therapeutic relationship. That’s why we are committed to matching you with a therapist who best suits your needs. In our care, you will feel heard, safe, and supported, enabling you to overcome struggles, heal from pain, and find hope for a better future.
Nice to meet you
Carina Koletsas
CLINICAL DIRECTOR
THERAPIST AND SOCIAL WORKER, BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Adolescent and Adult Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, First Responder Support, Stressful life transitions, Emotional Regulation Issues, Grief, Parenting Support, Relationship Issues
Hi! I’m Carina, the founder and Clinical Director of Blue Wave Therapy. As a dedicated social worker, my journey has been driven by a deep commitment to supporting children, youth, adults, and families who are navigating the challenges of trauma, anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, and relationship issues.
With over 20 years of experience, my client-centered approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Narrative Therapy (NT). I am committed to practicing from a strength-based, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed perspective, and I believe that the foundation of effective therapy lies in building a strong therapeutic relationship within a safe, supportive environment.
I hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Toronto. My career has been dedicated to client-centered work in diverse therapeutic settings, where I’ve supported individuals facing mental health challenges, including at-risk children and adults. My extensive experience includes helping families through trauma, utilizing attachment-informed practices, conducting risk assessments, and providing community counseling in various environments such as homes, mental health units, shelters, and kinship/foster/adoption settings. This background fuels my ongoing commitment to mental health and emotional wellness.
Additionally, as a mom and wife, I bring a personal understanding of the joys and challenges of family life. This personal insight enriches my professional practice, allowing me to connect with clients on a deeper level and navigate the complexities of parenting, marriage, and family dynamics with empathy and compassion.
I offer in person and walk and talk therapy to children, youth, and adults in Markham and Stouffville. Virtual therapy across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Anna Maria Giordano
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER, B.Sc, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, Couples Therapy, Trauma, Anxiety, Addictions/ Substance Misuse, Intra/interpersonal Conflict, Parenting, Separation & Divorce, First Responders
Hi, I’m Anna Maria Giordano.
I graduated from the University of Toronto with a Honors Bachelor of Science Degree and a Masters of Social Work Degree, specializing in the Collaborative Graduate Program in Alcohol, Tobacco and other Psychoactive Substances. I have 23 years of dedicated and unwavering commitment in the field of Social Work conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments, crisis intervention and both short and long-term counseling for a diverse population including children, adolescents, adults, and couples, experiencing mental health challenges, substance misuse, inter/intrapersonal conflict, and other life stressors. My experience includes utilizing techniques of CBT, DBT, EFT, SFBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Signs of Safety Framework.
My commitment remains focused on providing client-centered care for adolescents, adults, and couples, in order to achieve their goals. If you are reading this, please remember that although the process may feel daunting and scary, it can also offer hope, relief, growth, connection, healing, and personal empowerment. My education, coupled with my experience and passion allows me to provide a safe space to invest in yourself and your relationships.
The journey to well being and healing is distinctively unique, and consequently whatever the challenges you may be facing, I approach the therapeutic process with compassion, patience and empathy, building off of your strengths and respecting your starting point!
I offer virtual therapy services to children, adolescents, adults, and couples across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Samantha Shore
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER, MSW, RSW, RSSW
SPECIALTIES:
Adult Mental Health, Couples’ and Family Therapy, Trauma, PTSD, First Responders, Grief, Emotional/ Nervous System Dysregulation, Women’s Issues, Substance Use, & Somatic Therapy
Hi! I’m Samantha. I’m so glad you’re here.
I hold an MSW and a BA in sociology, and I’m a dual registrant with the OCSWSSW. My work focuses on connecting personal struggles to broader systemic realities. I learn a lot from my clients and am inspired by their journeys. I believe each person’s journey is unique, and I’m honored to support you in sharing yours. Therapy can be a powerful space for growth and healing, and I’m here to help you navigate that path.
With over 10 years of experience, I’ve worked with individuals, families, couples, and groups, experiencing challenges such as bereavement, anticipatory grief, complex trauma, relationship issues, chronic illness, addiction, dysregulation, anxiety, chronic stress, and difficult life transitions.
I’m passionate about being an empathetic listener, a curious collaborator, and a trusted witness. I aim to create a comfortable, safe, and relaxed environment in our sessions, using collaboration as the foundation of my approach. I also value your feedback on how I can better support you in your healing journey.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I use various modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Psychoeducation, Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Narrative Therapy (NT). Additionally, I take a holistic approach, integrating mind and body to promote deeper healing and transformation.
I offer in person therapy to youth, and adults in our Markham clinic. Virtual therapy across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Susan Russell
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER, MSW, RSW, CPT
SPECIALTIES:
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Self Harm, Grief, Parenting Challenges, Behavioural Concerns, Separation & Divorce and Relationship Difficulties,
Hi, I’m Susan. I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I holds an undergraduate degree in Social Development Studies at the University of Waterloo (1992), a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Toronto (1995) and a PostGraduate Fellowship Certificate in Family Systems at C.M. Hincks Institute, currently known as SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health (1996). I am a Certified Play Therapist with the Canadian Association for Play Therapy, a Foundational Level I Theraplay Practitioner and an EMDRIA Approved EMDR Trained clinician (EMDR Certification in progress). In addition, I am the co-developer of a children’s anxiety program “Worry Busters” (2005) which incorporates components of yoga, CBT and expressive arts.
I have over 25 years of experience in a hospital outpatient clinic assessing and treating children and adolescents struggling with symptoms of depressed mood, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, suicide ideation, self-harm, trauma, grief and loss, separation and divorce, selective mutism, OCD, ADHD and ODD. I use an eclectic evidence-based approach to therapy blending CBT, DBT, family, play, sand and attachment-based therapies, expressive arts and mindfulness techniques to help clients achieve their goals.
I strongly believes that early intervention in a child’s life is essential to their growth and development. Through the therapeutic relationship, and with parents’ support and involvement, children and adolescents can learn to regulate their emotions, increase their self-esteem and confidence and develop a sense of mastery to navigate life’s many challenges. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment for all my clients by meeting them at their level to understand, validate and support them in an empathetic, non-judgmental and playful way.
I offer in-person therapy services to children and adolescents in our Markham clinic.
Nice to meet you!
Daniela Cipullo
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER, BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Self Harm, Grief, Parenting Challenges, Behavioural Concerns, Separation & Divorce and Relationship Difficulties,
Hello! I’m Daniela.
Life's journey can often lead us through uncharted territories, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. However, you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Whether you're dealing with the lingering effects of trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, or the complexities of relationships, know that you're in a space where your journey is honoured and understood. Empathy is the cornerstone of our work together. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to meet your unique needs.
I am a registered social worker with a Bachelor of Social Worker from Metropolitan University and a Master of Social Work from Dalhousie University. With over 15 years of experience working with children, youth, families, and neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, my practice focuses on supporting individuals through various life challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, behavioral concerns, family dynamics, and grief.
My approach is strengths-based and person-centered, aiming to empower individuals by recognizing and building on their unique abilities and perspectives. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques including Narrative Therapy (NT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Strength Based Therapy, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to achieve personal growth and emotional well-being.
Let’s work together to build a healthier, happier you.
I offer in person therapy to children, adolescents and adults in our Markham clinic. Virtual therapy across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Vish Kularatnam
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Child, Adolescent, and Adult Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm. ADHD, Grief, Trauma, Major Life Transitions, Interpersonal Difficulties, Emotional/Behavioural Concerns, Relationships/Separation & Divorce
Hi, my name is Vish! I am a Registered Social Worker with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across community mental health and private practice settings.
My clinical work has focused on helping individuals navigate emotional and behavioural challenges, anxiety, grief, trauma, and major life transitions. I also support families and caregivers with behavioural concerns, relationship issues, and family dynamics.
As a clinical therapist, I have extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across both community mental health and private practice settings. My work at Kinark Child and Family Services has equipped me with a strong foundation in helping children and families navigate a range of emotional and behavioural challenges. In private practice, I also work with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to create meaningful change.
My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing on Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Practice. I bring a culturally responsive lens to my practice, recognizing the role of identity, lived experience, and systemic influences in shaping mental health.
I aim to meet you where you are and walk with you through life’s challenges, helping you reconnect with your authentic self. I believe in the power of working collaboratively to explore your needs, strengths, and goals in a holistic way. Together, we can develop strategies to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and change. I value honesty and openness in the therapeutic process and welcome feedback to ensure the work remains aligned with your needs.
If you're considering therapy, I welcome you to reach out. It would be a privilege to support you in your journey!
I offer in person and walk and talk therapy to children, youth, and adults in Markham and Stouffville. Virtual therapy across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Venice Ruiz
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Adult Mental Health. Traumatic Loss, General Anxiety, Oncology-Related Anxiety (including Fear of Cancer Recurrence), Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Caregiver Burnout, Major Life Transitions.
Hi, I’m Venice. I’m a Registered Social Worker with 10 years of experience supporting children, youth, adults, families, and groups. I hold a Master’s in Social Work and an Honours Bachelor’s in Psychology, graduating summa cum laude.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re navigating traumatic loss, anxiety (including fear of cancer recurrence), depression, bipolar disorder, caregiver burnout, people-pleasing tendencies, or major life transitions, I’m here to support you. My therapeutic style is rooted in creating a safe, supportive space where you can be your authentic self, so we can focus on what truly matters to you.
I take a personalized approach, blending evidence-based therapies to meet your unique needs. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Together, we’ll strengthen your coping skills, deepen self-awareness, and build resilience—empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.
As a Filipino immigrant, Christian, wife, and mother, I understand the complexities of identity, faith, family, and life transitions. These experiences shape my holistic, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach, allowing me to connect deeply with both the struggles and the victories that make each journey unique. Wherever you are in your healing process, I’m here to offer support with warmth and compassion. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
I offer in-person therapy for older youth and adults at our Stouffville clinic, as well as virtual therapy across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Brittany Hunt
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Adult, Child & Youth Mental Health, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Emotion Dysregulation, Self-Harm, Parent/Family support, Intimate Partner & Family Violence
Hello, I'm Brittany. I am a Registered Social Worker with a Masters of Social Work degree. I specialize in both adult and children mental health, complex trauma, and have a strong passion for supporting families affected by Intimate Partner and Family Violence. I work with diverse populations, helping children, adolescents, and families, facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, emotional and behavioural challenges, grief, and PTSD. I also offer support for individuals and families navigating relationship issues, parenting, and family dynamics.
Taking the first step toward seeking support can feel scary and daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. I strongly believe that therapy is most effective when you connect with the right person —someone who listens, understands, and makes you feel heard, valued, and seen. As a therapist, my role is to create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Together, we’ll work through these challenges, helping you build the skills and strategies to create positive changes in your life.
I approach therapy through a trauma-informed lens, utilizing evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Parent Management Training (PMT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT). Additionally, I embrace a strength-based, solution-focused, and anti-oppressive perspective to ensure that our work aligns with your values, goals, and lived experiences. If you're ready to take the first step toward healing and growth, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
I offer in person and walk and talk therapy to children, youth, and adults in Markham and Stouffville. Virtual therapy across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Varenya Kuhathaas
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER MSW, RSW, RPT
SPECIALTIES:
Child, Adolescent & Adult Mental Health, Play Therapy, ADHD, Executive Functioning Skills, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma & EMDR, Parental Support, Grief and Loss, Attachment-Based Issues
Hi, I’m Varenya!
I’m a Registered Social Worker and Play Therapist who works with children, youth, and adults navigating emotional, behavioural, and social challenges. I use play, creative expression, and evidence-based approaches to help children process emotions in ways that feel natural to them. I also work with adults, supporting them through life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, and the impacts of trauma.
I’m particularly passionate about helping children and youth with ADHD strengthen their executive functioning skills—like emotional regulation, organization, and impulse control. I also have training in EFIT (Emotion Focused Individual Therapy) and am currently on route to completing my certification in EMDR, an evidence-based approach to trauma that I use with both children and adults.
As a second-generation Canadian, I understand the unique challenges that come with navigating parenthood and family life while balancing different cultural expectations. I often support parents alongside their children to strengthen attachment and find practical strategies that work for their family.
I believe the early years shape a child’s emotional well-being, but it’s never too late to create positive change. Whether I’m working with a child, teen, or adult, my goal is always to tailor therapy to their unique needs in a warm, supportive, and collaborative way.
I offer sessions in English and Tamil, and provide in-person and walk-and-talk therapy in Markham, as well as virtual sessions across Ontario.
Nice to meet you!
Ken McIntosh
THERAPIST
SOCIAL WORKER BSW, MSW, RSW
SPECIALTIES:
Adolescent and Adult Mental Health, LGBTQ+ Issues, Low Self-esteem, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Self Harm, ADHD, Emotional Dysregulation, Gaming Disorders
Hey there! I'm Ken, a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with a passion for creating supportive, non-judgmental spaces where you can explore your challenges and discover your authentic self. I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and adults facing concerns such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, and sexuality and identity exploration. My goal is to help you navigate life's transitions confidently and find meaningful solutions to the issues holding you back.
With experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I take an eclectic and client-centered approach. In addition to my training, I've provided psychotherapy and mental health support in various settings, including private practices, community mental health centers, and schools. I've facilitated psychoeducational groups for caregivers of children with ADHD and developed DBT skills groups for clients with emotional dysregulation concerns. In addition, I have experience navigating LGBTQ+ issues, the "coming out" process, and religious trauma. I have also provided supportive counselling and case management services to adults living with severe and persistent mental illness.
Beyond therapy, I’m passionate about supporting the mental health of gamers and online communities, blending my personal interests with my professional expertise. When I’m not working, I enjoy board games, video games, and lifelong learning through engaging with fantasy shows and new ideas. Let’s connect for a free consultation and take the first step on your journey toward personal growth.
I offer virtual therapy services to youth and adults with flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, to fit your needs.
Nice to meet you!
Dr. Amber Perry
REGISTERED CLINICAL AND SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
PSYCHOLOGIST, C.PSYCH.
SPECIALTIES:
Psycho-educational Assessments, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Difficulties, Giftedness, Mental Health Assessments, Anxiety, Emotional and Behavioural Concerns, School-Based Consultation, Developmental Concerns
Hi, I’m Amber. I’m a Registered Clinical and School Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and a member of the Canadian Psychological Association. I completed my Ph.D. at the University of Toronto and received my clinical and research training at the Hospital for Sick Children. My early research focused on Pediatric ADHD through the Department of Psychiatry Research at SickKids, and since then, my career has been devoted to supporting children, adolescents, and families through comprehensive assessment and consultation services.
I bring nearly 20 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, providing assessments and therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing mild to complex difficulties. My background includes clinical work at Brampton Civic Hospital, SickKids, and the Simcoe County District School Board, as well as leadership as Chief Psychologist and Mental Health Lead for a school board in Sudbury, Ontario. In private practice, I am the founder of Georgian Bay Psychology and York Pediatric Psychology, where I have focused on psycho-educational, autism, and mental health assessments for nearly two decades.
I specialize in identifying learning differences, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and emotional or behavioural concerns that may be impacting a child’s academic and social success. My goal is to provide families with a clear understanding of their child’s strengths and needs, along with practical, evidence-based recommendations to support them at school and at home.
I offer psychological assessments for children and youth (ages 6–18) at Blue Wave Therapy. Services are available in person during weekday hours in our Markham clinic.
get matched with a therapist
IN THREE EASY STEPS
1
Please provide as much information as you’re comfortable sharing to ensure the best-matched therapist.
complete a brief inquiry form
2
Receive an email within 24-48 hours matching you with a recommended therapist based on your identified needs.
get paired with your Therapist
3
You’ll be invited to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with the therapist to answer your questions, discuss your goals, and to ensure it’s the best fit.
start your care
Note: In the event that there isn't a therapist available at the moment who best matches your needs, you will be informed and placed on a short waitlist and contacted back as soon as an opening is available.
Our team of therapists have a wide range of experience and specialties. However, if we are unable to meet your particular needs, we would be happy to assist you with a referral to services that do. Your care is our top priority.