Maria Bater-Alessandro, M.Sc., Counselling Psychology Doctoral Candidate

Therapy Areas: anxiety (includes social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, and other phobias); depression/mood concerns; stress and burnout; assertiveness; interpersonal issues and relationship difficulties; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); autism spectrum disorder (ASD); perfectionism; obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); grief; loneliness; existential angst; complex trauma and dissociation; Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs); attachment wounds and issues; sleep problems; body image concerns and eating disorders; personality issues; emerging adulthood and identity development; low self-esteem, insecurity, and rejection sensitivity; emotion regulation; guilt; shame; academic/career and life transitions and adjustments; personal growth, self-enhancement

Finding a therapist who fits your needs in a sea of practitioners isn’t always easy. My goal is to make the process feel a little less daunting by offering an integrative, trauma-informed approach that feels safe, supportive, and down to earth. I believe therapy works best when you feel truly understood— not just as a set of symptoms or struggles, but as a whole person with your own story, history, and hopes for the future.

With a background in clinical psychology and counselling, I work with adults navigating challenges like anxiety, mood issues, low self-esteem, identity development, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and adult neurodivergence (including late-diagnosed autism and ADHD). I have a special interest in supporting people who grew up with caregivers who had difficulty meeting emotional needs or individuals who took on adult responsibilities too early—sometimes called parentification—and helping them understand how those early experiences continue to shape their relationships, boundaries, and sense of self today.

My approach draws from several evidence-based models, including Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectial-Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), narrative, existential and psychodynamic therapy. I aim to create a collaborative process that builds both self-understanding and practical tools for change. Together, we’ll explore the underlying emotions, needs, and patterns that influence your life and develop meaningful, goal-oriented ways to support your growth.

I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and am currently completing my Doctorate in Counselling Psychology at the University of Toronto. My research focuses on how emerging adult women navigate identity development following a late autism diagnosis.

If you’re wondering whether my approach might be a good fit for you, I’d be happy to connect and answer any questions you might have!