Rawan Hedefa, M.A., M.S.W., Counselling/Clinical Psychology Doctoral Candidate

Therapy and Assessment Areas: anxiety (includes social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, and other phobias); depression/mood concerns; stress and burnout; interpersonal issues and relationship difficulties; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); autism spectrum disorder (ASD); perfectionism; obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); grief and loss; loneliness; existential angst; trauma and dissociation; attachment wounds and issues; sleep problems; eating disorders, body image concerns; personality and identity issues; self-esteem and self-compassion; emotion regulation; guilt; shame; paranoia, psychosis; life transitions; experiences of marginalization related to issues such as gender, sexual identity, ethnicity, family expectations; 2SLGBTQIA+ issues; personal growth; self-enhancement

I offer a space that is warm, collaborative, and affirming, where you can safely explore who you are and what you are going through without fear of judgement. My approach is relational, culturally sensitive, and informed. I see therapy as a shared process of understanding the patterns that keep you stuck, recognizing your strengths, and helping you re-connect with the parts of yourself that need care and attention.

In our work together, we will focus on the connections between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, while also exploring how your early experiences, relationships, and cultural background have shaped the way you see yourself and others. I integrate cognitive-behavioural, dialectical-behavioural, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches, along with emotion-focused, mindfulness-based, and narrative practices. I believe that healing happens when you feel seen, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change in your life.

I have experience working with individuals who are navigating issues like trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, mood instability, chronic and severe health issues and end-of-life decisions, perfectionism, obsessionality, self-criticism, and interpersonal difficulties. I also support clients exploring gender and sexual identity, cultural or family expectations, and the impact of marginalization. My clinical experience includes work at the OISE Psychology Clinic, START Clinic for Mood and Anxiety Disorders, the Integrative Psychology Centre, and Bridgepoint Hospital.

In addition to clinical work, I am a Registered Social Worker and a Ph.D. student in Counselling and Clinical Psychology at the University of Toronto. I have a Master’s degree in Counselling and Clinical Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. My doctoral research explores the mental health, resilience, and identity development of LGBTQ+ youth in Canada. As a queer therapist, I am deeply committed to creating inclusive therapeutic spaces that honour both cultural and personal identities.

I work under the supervision of Dr. Lisa Bradford, a Clinical and Counselling Psychologist.