Dr. Shasha Oosthuizen, C. Psych. (Supervised Practice)
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, whether due to our inner worlds—such as thoughts and emotions—or outer circumstances like relationship challenges, loss, life transitions, or traumatic events. While we do our best to manage these difficulties, there are times when additional support can make a meaningful difference. Choosing to seek psychotherapy is a courageous and commendable act of self-care, and prioritizing your well-being is essential for a fulfilling life.
Since 2015, I have supported individuals and couples in gaining deeper insight into their internal experiences and external challenges while equipping them with evidence-based strategies to address their unique concerns. I have extensive experience supporting adults with a wide range of concerns and committed to providing compassionate, collaborative, and personalized care as you navigate life’s challenges.
Individual Therapy: In individual therapy, I support clients navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I work with individuals coping with trauma or PTSD, as well as grief and loss—including relationship breakups, divorce, bereavement, and the loss of a loved one or pet. I have extensive experience assisting clients through life transitions (e.g., occupational stress, work-related trauma—including trauma experienced by first responders—and burnout).
Couples Therapy: I work with couples to address a wide range of relationship issues, including strengthening communication, deepening connection, and improving emotional, physical, and sexual intimacy, as well as managing conflict. I support couples facing difficult life circumstances, such as when one partner is experiencing mental health challenges or living with a chronic or terminal illness. Additionally, I assist couples who have experienced trauma or neglect—whether in childhood or adulthood—by helping them navigate the complex emotional dynamics that arise from those experiences.
Therapeutic Approach: In therapy, I use various treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioural, emotion-focused, psychodynamic, attachment-based, relational therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. I believe in tailoring treatment to fit your unique goals and needs, ensuring a personalized approach to your therapy.
What to Expect: During our first few sessions, we’ll explore your current concerns, goals, and personal history to better understand the factors contributing to your difficulties. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals.
About Me: I am a psychologist with a PhD in Clinical and Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto. At the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships, I work under the supervision of Dr. Dino Zuccarini, C.Psych., providing therapy for adults facing a wide range of concerns. I welcome individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or spiritual beliefs. My practice is grounded in creating a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and authentic space where clients feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore their experiences and pursue meaningful change.
Professional Experience: Throughout my clinical training and career, I have worked in hospitals, universities, and private practice. I completed my PhD residency and practicum placement at the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships (CFIR), along with additional practicum placements at Toronto General Hospital and the University of Waterloo Health Services. Over the course of my training and career, I have provided individual, couples, and group therapy, as well as psychological assessments for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, trauma, adjustment to life transitions, and personality disorders.
In addition to my clinical work, I have contributed to research, teaching, and supervision. I have published a peer-reviewed manuscript on eating disorders, presented my doctoral research on proactive self-care and stress management at a national conference, coached graduate students in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) certification courses, and supervised PhD and Master’s students in Clinical and Counselling Psychology. I am a professional member of the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO) and the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA).
Treatments
- Acute/Single-Event Trauma
- Anxiety & Stress
- Complex/Long-Term Trauma
- Couples Therapy
- Depression, Mood & Grief
- Eating, Weight & Body Image
- Interpersonal Relationships
- Multicultural
- Personality
- Sex Therapy
- Sexual Addiction
- Sexuality, Gender & Relationship Diversity
