Bio

Welcome!

Afshin Riaz

She /Her Registered Social Worker / Psychotherapist, BSW, MACP

Headshot of Afshin Riaz

As a therapist, I wholeheartedly embrace a holistic perspective, acknowledging the intricate connection between mental, emotional, and physical well-being. With cultural sensitivity and a non-judgmental stance, I’m dedicated to forging an authentic and supportive haven for individuals, meeting them exactly where they are in their unique journeys. I welcome challenging conversations, recognizing that within them lies the potential for profound growth and epiphanies. Ready to join forces on a collaborative journey towards healing and growth?

Afshin is equipped to assist a diverse range of individuals, spanning from children (7+) to teens and adults, including couples. Her expertise lies in providing support to those navigating burnout resulting from stress, caregiving duties, or familial conflicts. She is particularly attuned to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, cultural identity challenges, and the intricate dynamics of managing family or cultural expectations.

Demonstrating a special interest in pre-marital counseling, Afshin is committed to supporting couples within the context of their marriages. Trained in Emotion Focused Therapy for couples and holding Gottman Method Level 1 certification, she employs effective therapeutic modalities for couples seeking assistance.

Afshin brings a mindful, anti-oppressive, and anti-racist approach to her client interactions. Her primary focus is ensuring that each client leaves her sessions feeling better or lighter than when they arrived. Unafraid of tackling difficult conversations, Afshin strives to create a space where clients feel safe and fully accepted for who they are. With a background in a large family of seven siblings, she understands the importance of relational work in therapy.

Recognizing the potent impact of the client-therapist bond, Afshin is dedicated to aiding clients in reaching their goals and empowering them to become their own therapists.

"Let’s partner up for a laid-back yet purposeful expedition toward healing and personal growth. Consider the game officially on!”

Associations / Professional Designation

Education

  • Social Service worker Diploma from Humber College

  • Bachelors of Social Work-Honors from York University

  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University

Specialties

  • Anxiety/ Depression/Trauma/Identity and cultural challenges/Grief/Couples work and healthy relationships / Pre-marital counselling/ Children and adolescents navigating life/First responders & veterans/Caregiving burnout

Offers

  • individual sessions for children (7+), teens and adults, couples/marital therapy, parenting consultation sessions, family therapy

  • Services in English, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi

Therapies

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Behavioural Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Relationship Based - Strengths Approach (RBSP), Gottman Level 1 and completing Level 2

Fees

  • Virtual sessions: $160 no HST

  • In-person sessions: $180 no HST (Milton)

  • Family & Couples sessions: $200 no HST

More than just my work:

Favourite Quote

  • “If the foot of the trees were not tied to the earth, they would be pursuing me. For I have blossomed so much, I am the envy of the gardens.”  - Rumi 

Quick Facts

  •  I have 7 siblings and I am the middle child 

  • My husband is a Canadian Armed forces veteran 

  • I have sixteen nieces and nephews 

  • I love thrift stores and all things vintage 

  • I love travelling and Thailand is one my favourite countries to visit hence, I have been there over five times 

Book a therapy session with Afshin