Dr. Sasha UsyatYnsky

You are likely reading this because you are thinking about making changes in your life. Stressful situations can eat away at our ability to cope and function, or we can become stuck in unhelpful patterns of thinking, behaving, and relating to others that interfere with our living a full and meaningful life. It can be scary to think about making changes and it is normal to feel unsure even as you reach out for support. I will take time to listen and understand your situation so that we can identify and move towards your goals. Oftentimes, we try to avoid short-term discomfort (e.g., strong emotions, conflict, pain) without even realizing that we are doing it or that it might get in the way of our long-term values. Together, we can work towards building an understanding of how you respond to stressful situations and relationships. Through this shared awareness, we can address patterns in your thoughts, emotional reactions, and behaviours that may no longer be serving you and find new ways of coping to build a life worth living. I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and grow: my job is to create a space where you are empowered and supported in this journey.

I received my MA from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) in 2016  and my PhD in 2022. My pre-doctoral residency was completed in the Mental Health and Addictions Program at Nova Scotia Health Authority. My training has focused on treatment and assessment of individuals experiencing difficulties with mood, anxiety, trauma and stress-related responses, interpersonal problems, unexplained somatic symptoms (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal problems), emotion regulation, panic, substance use, and other emotional and personality difficulties. I also have unique and extensive experience treating insomnia and sleep problems. I have been trained and supervised in the provision of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I take an integrative approach and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that best meets your needs. I am honored to work with all individuals and strive to create a collaborative, non-judgemental, and open space where we can attend to the intersecting identities you hold and how this may inform treatment.