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

*Serving Clients in Ontario*

See Video Introduction at bottom of page.

Life can feel like a lot sometimes, especially when past challenges or childhood trauma intersect with the everyday stress of work, parenting, and simply trying to keep everything together. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by guilt, 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 thoughts, feelings, and 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 passionate about supporting people navigating the intersection of multiple identities. As a ciswoman, person of colour, new mother, and newcomer to Canada, I understand how complex it can be to find balance and belonging in an increasingly demanding and polarized world. My approach is rooted in clarity, curiosity, and connection—helping you reconnect with your values and show up more fully in your life.

Therapy with me is a collaborative journey—one intentional step at a time.

We begin by creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. Building trust is the foundation of our work together.

Then, we’ll explore tools to manage 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, self-compassion, 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

• I hold a master’s degree in clinical psychology and am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

• Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University 

• Bachelor of Arts, Psychology - Bangalore University, India 

• My approach is evidence-based and grounded in the connection between mind and body. I draw from:

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

  • I also incorporate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to explore the impact of early attachment on our emotional experiences.

  • To support trauma processing and deeper healing, I integrate narrative, mindfulness-based and strength-based modalities.

• I often help clients struggling with:

  • 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

• I am fluent in English, Hindi, and Kannada.

• I work with clients 16 years of age and older.

• On a personal note - When I’m not in therapist mode, you’ll find me happily lost in 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.