Puja Devanand Rao, B.A. (Psychology), M.A. in Counselling Psychology, Registered Psychotherapist

*Serving Clients in Ontario (and MB, SK, NF, NT, YK, & NU when permitted by Inter-Provincial Practice)*

Life can feel like a lot sometimes, especially when past challenges or childhood trauma intersect with the anxieties of work, parenting, or simply trying to keep everything together. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, burnout, or that persistent feeling of “not enough,” you’re not alone.

I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can take a breath, be yourself, and explore the patterns that may be impacting your life and relationships. Together, we’ll work on managing stress, responding to guilt with self-compassion, and finding ways to feel more connected, calm, and grounded.

I’m a trauma therapist passionate about supporting people navigating the intersection of multiple identities. As a woman, person of colour, mother, and Canadian, I understand how complex it can be to find balance in today’s world. My approach is rooted in helping you reconnect with your nervous system and improve your self-esteem and confidence.

We begin by creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. Building trust is the foundation of our work together. While working with me, you will notice a warm disposition and a safe space to land.

Then, we’ll explore tools to manage nervous system regulation, stress, overwhelm, and emotional imbalance. It is about building a sense of safety from the inside out.

As we delve deeper into the work, we examine early attachment experiences, unhelpful coping mechanisms, and limiting beliefs that may be holding you back.

Finally, with insight and new tools in hand, we focus on building resilience and creating meaningful change.

Hit the Get Started Now button to contact our Intake Coordinator and ask for me – Puja. 

Background and Interests

• Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

• Member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

• Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University 

• Bachelor of Arts, Psychology - Bangalore University, India 

• My approach is evidence-based and focuses on the connection between mind and body. I use a mix of different modalities based on the client’s presenting issues. Some of these include:

  • Trauma-informed modalities like parts work, inner child work, Brainspotting therapy, Emotionally Focused therapy

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help clients build self-awareness, navigate challenges, and create meaningful change.  

  • I also integrate tools from strengths-based psychology, narrative therapy and mindfulness therapy.  

• I often help clients struggling with, but not limited to:

  • Trauma, Complex PTSD

  • Anxiety, panic attacks and stress management

  • Navigating career burnout/’stuckness’

  • Maternal mental health

  • Relationship issues/life transitions

  • Cultural/Family conflicts

  • Sex, Intimacy and Sexuality

  • Partners of people with Borderline Personality Disorder 

• I am fluent in English and Hindi.

• I work with individual teens (14+) and adults (18+).

• When I’m not in therapist mode, you’ll find me reading a good book, experimenting in the kitchen (with varying degrees of success) or planning my next travel adventure with my family.

Take the next step! To begin working together, hit the Get Started Now button, and ask for me, Puja.