Muslim Therapists in Markham, ON

Photo of Sumara Riaz, MSc, ADMH, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sumara Riaz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, ADMH, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3S  (Online Only)
As being a Muslim woman, mother, and first generation Canadian, I found it’s difficult to navigate through too many roles and responsibilities that lead us towards facing many mental health issues of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self esteem, at times. I can help you with navigating through these challenges, staying focused, engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals as well as in attaining an authentic self. I have graduated in Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, qualified to provide virtual counselling and psychotherapy under the supervision of an approved supervisor.
As being a Muslim woman, mother, and first generation Canadian, I found it’s difficult to navigate through too many roles and responsibilities that lead us towards facing many mental health issues of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self esteem, at times. I can help you with navigating through these challenges, staying focused, engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals as well as in attaining an authentic self. I have graduated in Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, qualified to provide virtual counselling and psychotherapy under the supervision of an approved supervisor.
(289) 806-5015 View (289) 806-5015
Photo of Shamsad Texiwala, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shamsad Texiwala
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6B  (Online Only)
As a first-generation Indian Muslim, I have had meaningful experiences working with South Asian populations navigating their mental health concerns and family dynamics.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you to navigate through difficult situations, life changes and events. Together, we can focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable challenges and stressors. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use and other mental health concerns. I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer, especially from a cultural and racial lens.
As a first-generation Indian Muslim, I have had meaningful experiences working with South Asian populations navigating their mental health concerns and family dynamics.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you to navigate through difficult situations, life changes and events. Together, we can focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable challenges and stressors. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use and other mental health concerns. I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer, especially from a cultural and racial lens.
(289) 207-6520 View (289) 207-6520
Photo of Ukasha Malik, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Ukasha Malik
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
I believe that asking for help and being vulnerable takes great courage. Therefore, by establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship through a non-judgemental, empathetic, collaborative, and psychodynamic approach, I help you unpack what may be at the core of your concerns and improve your ability to cope with the challenges that brought you to therapy.
I believe that asking for help and being vulnerable takes great courage. Therefore, by establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship through a non-judgemental, empathetic, collaborative, and psychodynamic approach, I help you unpack what may be at the core of your concerns and improve your ability to cope with the challenges that brought you to therapy.
View
Photo of Olfat Sakr, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Olfat Sakr
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
My third culture kid (TCK) upbringing nurtured in me an interest in cross-cultural dialogue and interfaith work, and I eventually became passionate about peacebuilding. I facilitated cross-cultural dialogue among university students from different countries and worked with unaccompanied refugee youth from various African countries. This has equipped me with the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds. Inner peace is essential for peaceful relationships with others, and I learned this after witnessing the trauma of the revolution and its aftermath.
My third culture kid (TCK) upbringing nurtured in me an interest in cross-cultural dialogue and interfaith work, and I eventually became passionate about peacebuilding. I facilitated cross-cultural dialogue among university students from different countries and worked with unaccompanied refugee youth from various African countries. This has equipped me with the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds. Inner peace is essential for peaceful relationships with others, and I learned this after witnessing the trauma of the revolution and its aftermath.
(226) 781-3842 View (226) 781-3842
Photo of Tara Syed - Optima Counselling and Psychotherapy Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Optima Counselling and Psychotherapy Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
If you are struggling with relationship difficulties, family conflict, anger issues, worried about being successful at school, work or in life due to attention, focus, learning or executive functioning difficulties, if you struggle with body image, self-esteem, and confidence issues. If you are trying to build your life after a breakup or after being in an abusive relationship. If you are trying to get control over your life, struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression. If you feel low in motivation, low energy , school problems, grief, loss and bereavement issues, family break up, Do you want to feel happy, content & satisfied?
If you are struggling with relationship difficulties, family conflict, anger issues, worried about being successful at school, work or in life due to attention, focus, learning or executive functioning difficulties, if you struggle with body image, self-esteem, and confidence issues. If you are trying to build your life after a breakup or after being in an abusive relationship. If you are trying to get control over your life, struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression. If you feel low in motivation, low energy , school problems, grief, loss and bereavement issues, family break up, Do you want to feel happy, content & satisfied?
(289) 210-7364 View (289) 210-7364
Photo of Asma Qaiyum, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Asma Qaiyum
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
As a former physician, I have often been captivated by the complexities of human behaviour and the underlying mechanisms driving our actions and emotions. While I found medicine to be immensely rewarding, it was the psychological aspects of patient care that truly resonated with me. I became increasingly fascinated by the intricate connections between mind and body, and I recognized how addressing mental health issues could greatly enhance overall well-being. This realization led me to pursue a new direction: exploring the profound impact of mental health on our lives and supporting those struggling within this area.
As a former physician, I have often been captivated by the complexities of human behaviour and the underlying mechanisms driving our actions and emotions. While I found medicine to be immensely rewarding, it was the psychological aspects of patient care that truly resonated with me. I became increasingly fascinated by the intricate connections between mind and body, and I recognized how addressing mental health issues could greatly enhance overall well-being. This realization led me to pursue a new direction: exploring the profound impact of mental health on our lives and supporting those struggling within this area.
(289) 367-5051 View (289) 367-5051
Photo of Alia Siddiqi - The Therapeutic Couch  , RP, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
The Therapeutic Couch
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MC
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R  (Online Only)
Now accepting clients for phone/video! In life, we take many paths. Some paths are smooth and effortless, while others can be rough and challenging. Sometimes, on a particularly difficult path, we can lose sight of our goals, loved ones, and the connection to our inner selves. On the surface, it may feel like we do not have the strength to get through these hardships. But we believe that we can find it within ourselves to forge new pathways towards happiness. Therapy is empowering! By working through emotions, thoughts, and feelings, you can grow into the person you want to be, and achieve your full potential.
Now accepting clients for phone/video! In life, we take many paths. Some paths are smooth and effortless, while others can be rough and challenging. Sometimes, on a particularly difficult path, we can lose sight of our goals, loved ones, and the connection to our inner selves. On the surface, it may feel like we do not have the strength to get through these hardships. But we believe that we can find it within ourselves to forge new pathways towards happiness. Therapy is empowering! By working through emotions, thoughts, and feelings, you can grow into the person you want to be, and achieve your full potential.
(289) 216-5846 View (289) 216-5846
Photo of Tehreem Mehmood, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tehreem Mehmood
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P
I have worked with individuals from various walks of life and understand that you are the true expert of your life. To me, therapy is about more than just problems. As a therapist, I want to acknowledge both the challenges and the great strengths that you bring. I am dedicated to seeing you as more than the problems that you may discuss with me. Together, I hope to help you expand your awareness of yourself and explore ways to live in greater alignment to your values and needs. My priority is listening closely to where you are in your own journey and walking along you.
I have worked with individuals from various walks of life and understand that you are the true expert of your life. To me, therapy is about more than just problems. As a therapist, I want to acknowledge both the challenges and the great strengths that you bring. I am dedicated to seeing you as more than the problems that you may discuss with me. Together, I hope to help you expand your awareness of yourself and explore ways to live in greater alignment to your values and needs. My priority is listening closely to where you are in your own journey and walking along you.
(289) 274-6731 View (289) 274-6731
Photo of Aisha Ibrahim, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Aisha Ibrahim
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P  (Online Only)
Negative thoughts play a big part in causing and making anxiety and depression worse. On the other hand, anxiety and depression make these negative thoughts even stronger. It's important to realize that constantly having negative thoughts can make a person feel drained and hopeless. This can stop someone from growing and being happy. However, getting out of this harmful cycle requires replacing negative tendencies with more positive ones. Accepting imperfections, acknowledging accomplishments, and practicing self-love can all help a person grow and find real happiness.
Negative thoughts play a big part in causing and making anxiety and depression worse. On the other hand, anxiety and depression make these negative thoughts even stronger. It's important to realize that constantly having negative thoughts can make a person feel drained and hopeless. This can stop someone from growing and being happy. However, getting out of this harmful cycle requires replacing negative tendencies with more positive ones. Accepting imperfections, acknowledging accomplishments, and practicing self-love can all help a person grow and find real happiness.
(289) 204-6148 View (289) 204-6148
Photo of Zohreh Sojoudi, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Zohreh Sojoudi
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3T  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone is unique and exploring our inner world can help us appreciate this uniqueness. Our journey and the pain that we go through in our life make each of us special. I have helped individuals, couples and families to discover their pain and realize how it impacts themselves and their relationships. The new meaning and insight that we gain from this exploration helps us accept and love our unique selves, and build deeper relationships with our loved ones.
I believe that everyone is unique and exploring our inner world can help us appreciate this uniqueness. Our journey and the pain that we go through in our life make each of us special. I have helped individuals, couples and families to discover their pain and realize how it impacts themselves and their relationships. The new meaning and insight that we gain from this exploration helps us accept and love our unique selves, and build deeper relationships with our loved ones.
(289) 274-6296 View (289) 274-6296
Photo of Victoria Huang, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Victoria Huang
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
I always approach my clients in with an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, harm reduction framework. What does that mean? It means that I will always ask "what happened to you?" instead of asking "what's wrong with you?". It also means that I will always respect you as the expert in your own life. Finally, it means that I believe that everyone does their very best to survive and thrive each day–even on the days that we can't see any hope. I am here to be with you, even through the darkest of days, and help you find inspiration and hope within yourself.
I always approach my clients in with an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, harm reduction framework. What does that mean? It means that I will always ask "what happened to you?" instead of asking "what's wrong with you?". It also means that I will always respect you as the expert in your own life. Finally, it means that I believe that everyone does their very best to survive and thrive each day–even on the days that we can't see any hope. I am here to be with you, even through the darkest of days, and help you find inspiration and hope within yourself.
(289) 804-8384 View (289) 804-8384
Photo of Lily Zayed, BSc, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lily Zayed
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, especially during challenging times. Research shows that talk therapy can be incredibly helpful. Using a customized plan and effective tools, I am committed to helping you navigate your emotions, decrease anxiety, and achieve your goals towards living a happier and meaningful life.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, especially during challenging times. Research shows that talk therapy can be incredibly helpful. Using a customized plan and effective tools, I am committed to helping you navigate your emotions, decrease anxiety, and achieve your goals towards living a happier and meaningful life.
(289) 512-2485 View (289) 512-2485
Photo of Marena Gileini Fam, MACP, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Marena Gileini Fam
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
I believe every individual is the expert on their own lives, and that each has innate strengths to draw upon. I have helped people grow, notice patterns, and gain insights, and thereby, to reclaim control of their lives. I appreciate that the past plays a big role in shaping who we are and how we view and manage situations, and so I respect each person’s upbringing, experiences, and differences: these make us unique! As such, I recognize no single model or intervention works for everyone – there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, I tailor sessions and interventions for you and your specific issues, experiences, and needs.
I believe every individual is the expert on their own lives, and that each has innate strengths to draw upon. I have helped people grow, notice patterns, and gain insights, and thereby, to reclaim control of their lives. I appreciate that the past plays a big role in shaping who we are and how we view and manage situations, and so I respect each person’s upbringing, experiences, and differences: these make us unique! As such, I recognize no single model or intervention works for everyone – there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, I tailor sessions and interventions for you and your specific issues, experiences, and needs.
(289) 236-2384 View (289) 236-2384
Photo of Mehek Chaudhry, MACP, MSc, HBSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Mehek Chaudhry
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MSc, HBSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3S
I am a passionate and dedicated registered psychotherapist (qualifying) who is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I identify as a person of colour who can understand the challenges and struggles that arise from your worldviews and perspectives. You can expect to be welcomed into a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you will feel heard, seen, and accepted. I am sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals face.
I am a passionate and dedicated registered psychotherapist (qualifying) who is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I identify as a person of colour who can understand the challenges and struggles that arise from your worldviews and perspectives. You can expect to be welcomed into a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you will feel heard, seen, and accepted. I am sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals face.
(289) 513-3733 View (289) 513-3733
Photo of Debra Barran, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Debra Barran
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
(289) 512-2469 View (289) 512-2469
Photo of Jana Kosec, Registered Psychotherapist
Jana Kosec
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
Choosing the right therapist is a crucial step in your journey to healing and self-discovery—it can feel deeply personal and sometimes challenging. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we will work towards building resilience, uncovering your inner strengths, and empowering you to voice your unique experiences. In addition to my professional qualifications, my journey through my challenges with trauma has deeply enriched my practice. These personal experiences have instilled in me a profound empathy and a genuine connection with my clients.
Choosing the right therapist is a crucial step in your journey to healing and self-discovery—it can feel deeply personal and sometimes challenging. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we will work towards building resilience, uncovering your inner strengths, and empowering you to voice your unique experiences. In addition to my professional qualifications, my journey through my challenges with trauma has deeply enriched my practice. These personal experiences have instilled in me a profound empathy and a genuine connection with my clients.
(289) 207-7614 View (289) 207-7614
Photo of Judy Lui - Your Story Counselling, MSc, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Your Story Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Hi I'm Judy, Director at Your Story Counselling (YSC). At YSC, we understand that life can be stressful, it's easy to become disconnected from ourselves and those we love. Our goal is to help you find what you need in order to create the pathways towards your own desired journey in life. When we open ourselves up to our vulnerabilities, we open ourselves up to our full potential. We believe that all of us have the strength within ourselves to overcome and forge ahead with our own preferred way of life, love, and happiness. We all can use some help and support from time to time.
Hi I'm Judy, Director at Your Story Counselling (YSC). At YSC, we understand that life can be stressful, it's easy to become disconnected from ourselves and those we love. Our goal is to help you find what you need in order to create the pathways towards your own desired journey in life. When we open ourselves up to our vulnerabilities, we open ourselves up to our full potential. We believe that all of us have the strength within ourselves to overcome and forge ahead with our own preferred way of life, love, and happiness. We all can use some help and support from time to time.
(416) 473-3333 View (416) 473-3333
Photo of Marian Shinuda, MDiv, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Marian Shinuda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
(289) 536-4543 View (289) 536-4543
Photo of Michel Justin - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, MA, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 210-5106 View (289) 210-5106
Photo of Justin Michel - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
We are a diverse team of over 50 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
We are a diverse team of over 50 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(226) 779-5096 View (226) 779-5096
1

See more therapy options for Markham

Muslim Counsellors

Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?

A culturally sensitive therapist will be respectful of faith, race, sexual orientation, gender, age, disabilities, or anything that is relevant to an individual’s reasons for seeking therapy. This mental health practitioner will therefore be able to recognize the role of faith in a client’s life, and they can appreciate the cultural values and beliefs of others. Cultural sensitivity on the part of the therapist may enhance the possibility of a strong therapeutic bond, even if the clinician does not have an extensive understanding of a client’s background before therapy begins.

How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Muslim clients?

It is best to ask directly whether a therapist has worked with Muslim clients, and if so, the extent to which cultural or religious principles factored into their work together. You can also ask whether a therapist who is familiar with Islamic practices, values, and beliefs incorporates them into their professional work, and if so, how. If the therapist does not have a sufficient knowledge base, they may well know and can refer you to someone who has such experience.

What if the therapist does not have my exact background?

It is not necessary for a therapist to share one’s exact religious background for therapy to be successful. A qualified and culturally sensitive therapist will appreciate diversity within the Muslim community as well as diversity overall, and will have a sense of how religious and cultural issues can contribute to mental health. In addition, a good therapist would be willing to learn from their clients.

How do I recognise an effective Muslim therapist?

Like all therapists, a Muslim therapist who is effective will have the requisite training and expertise in evidence-based techniques, as well as the ability to connect with you on a personal level. An effective Muslim therapist may also demonstrate a clear understanding of your cultural background and faith. A therapist with such cultural sensitivity will set the stage for a strong therapeutic alliance.

Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of the Muslim faith?

The directory of Muslim therapists includes mental health providers who have shared their cultural background in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist with a similar background. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists identified as Muslim is limited, the directory will also show therapists with extensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.