igniting hope and inner strength

I strive to understand the unique experiences that have shaped where you have been, where you are now, and where you want to go.

I believe in honesty, respect and working with your best interests in mind. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that kindles hope and strength within you to achieve the life you desire.

Mai Ling Patel
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Hello and welcome! I’m Mai – seeker, explorer, traveller.

I would describe myself as an existentialist who is passionate about understanding how each of us make meaning of our physical, social, psychological and spiritual worlds. What drives us as humans has always been of a fascination to me.

My holistic and electic approach to therapy is an integration of my personal beliefs, for example that living beings have a propensity for self-actualization, fueled by life force energy; and my therapeutic attributes such as openness, flexibility, empathy and compassion.

In both my professional and personal journey, I have realized that there are many factors that create and/or diminish our life force causing symptoms that leave us feeling directionless, confused, anxious, depressed, etc. Together, we will explore your unique experience, understand how you make meaning of the world, and support you in the changes you want to make.

Education

I received my Bachelor of Science (Hons) at the University of Toronto where I majored in Psychology and double minored in Buddhism: Psychology and Mental Health, and Indigenous Studies. From there, I obtained a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. Further trainings and knowledge gathering is ongoing for this lifelong-learner!

Serving the Community

I am currently working with Community Care Durham as a support group facilitator providing psycho-education on a variety of mental health topics such as coping skills, self-care, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and trauma.

What Kindles My Fire…

I enjoy staring up into the sky with wonder and awe, feeling the ground beneath my feet, novel adventures with my kids, deep conversations and silliness with friends/family and my dog, Xena. I also revel in team sports, dance, art, music, improv and humour!

Our Services

the mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled

– Plutarch

Areas of PRACTICE

Addiction
ADHD
Anxiety and Depression
Behavioural Issues
Eating Disorders
Grief and Loss
Life Transitions
Maternal Wellness
Personality Disorders
Self-Esteem

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
Dialetical Behavioural Therapy
Emotion-Focused
Mindfulness-based Therapies
Strengths-based
Solution-Focused
Polyvagal Theory

Session TIMES

Tuesday - Thursday
(In-Person/Virtual)

9.00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday - Thursday (Virtual)

3.00 pm. – 9:00 p.m.

Friday (Virtual)

9.00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Phone

+1 (289) 399-2788

Email

hello@kindlepsychotherapy.com

If you are interested in a free 15-minute consultation or you have any further questions, please feel free to call, text or email.