How to Find a Trauma-Informed Therapist in Toronto Who Works With the Body
Talking about what happened can help. But for many people, it is not enough. Trauma and stress can stay in the body long after the event is over. You might feel tense, jumpy, numb or stuck, even when you "know" you are safe.
That is why many people look for a therapist who is both trauma-informed and body-based. At Mahaya Health in Little Italy, Toronto, that is how we work.
What does "trauma-informed therapy" mean?
A trauma-informed therapist understands how trauma affects the mind, the body and daily life. In practice, that means:
You set the pace. You never have to share more than you want to.
Your safety and comfort come first.
Your symptoms are seen as ways you learned to cope, not as things that are "wrong" with you.
The therapist respects your whole identity, including the impact of racism, sexism, homophobia and other harms.
Every therapist at Mahaya works within a trauma-informed framework.
What is body-based (somatic) therapy?
Body-based therapy, also called somatic therapy, brings the body into healing. Instead of only talking, you learn to notice sensations like tightness, breath or heartbeat. Small, safe steps help your nervous system settle and build the capacity to handle stress.
Body-based approaches can help people who:
Understand their patterns but still feel stuck
Feel overwhelmed, on edge or shut down
Carry complex or developmental trauma
Feel disconnected from their body
What should I look for in a trauma-informed therapist in Toronto?
Training in body-based methods, such as Somatic Experiencing or somatic psychotherapy
Training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) or other approaches that work gently with hard feelings
A free consult, so you can see if it feels like a good fit
Registration as a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) or Registered Social Worker (RSW), so you can get insurance receipts
In-person and online options that suit your life
Fit matters more than credentials. It is okay to meet a few therapists before you choose. For more tips, read our guide on how to choose a therapist in Ontario.
Body-based and trauma-informed care at Mahaya Health
Our team offers several ways to work with both mind and body:
Trauma-informed psychotherapy using IFS, EFT, CBT and somatic approaches, for anxiety, burnout and life changes.
Ariella Meinhard, MSW, RSW, our Clinical Director, is certified in Internal Family Systems therapy and brings a strong mind-body focus to her work.
Yasmine El-hamamsy, RP(Q) uses a somatic, relational and art-based approach with youth and young adults.
Somatic Experiencing with Elizabeth Ewanchuk, SEP, who works mainly with people carrying developmental and complex trauma.
Craniosacral therapy, a light-touch, trauma-informed treatment that supports nervous system regulation.
Because our therapists, bodyworkers and acupuncturists work as one team, your care can grow as your needs change.
What is it like to start?
Every therapist offers a free 15-minute consult. It is a chance to ask questions and see if the fit feels right. Sessions are usually 50 minutes. You can meet in person at our College Street clinic or online from anywhere in Ontario. We provide receipts for insurance where your plan covers Registered Psychotherapists or Registered Social Workers.
Where is Mahaya Health?
We are at 637 College Street, Suite 200 (near Grace Street), in Little Italy, Toronto. We have offered trauma-informed, integrative care since 2006. No referral is needed.
Ready to take the first step? Book your free consult online or call (647) 435-0152.