My Story

Welcome, I am Nilani. My journey into psychotherapy has been shaped by a lifetime of diverse experiences and an unwavering commitment to supporting mental well-being. I understand that life’s transitions and challenges can often feel overwhelming, but I believe that healing and self-discovery are always within reach.

As an immigrant from Sri Lanka, I have navigated the complexities of cultural intersections and the impact of racial, cultural, and socioeconomic factors on mental health. These personal experiences have given me a unique perspective on the invisible threads that influence our mental well-being and how they can shape our identities and relationships.

For over a decade, I worked as a Special Education teacher, witnessing firsthand the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces for growth and self-expression. I saw how identity, belonging, and self-discovery play crucial roles in our ability to thrive. These lessons now guide my approach to therapy.

Today, as a psychotherapist, I bring my own immigrant experience, teaching background, and passion for mental health into my practice. I am here to provide a compassionate and culturally sensitive space where you can explore the connections between your culture, identity, and mental health. Together, we will work to untangle your challenges and uncover your inner strengths.

I aim to empower you to take meaningful steps toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. Whether you are navigating life transitions, grappling with cultural identity, or seeking a greater sense of belonging, I am here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s embark on this journey together—your path to self-discovery and healing starts here.

Credentials:

  • BA: Bachelor of Arts (Specialized Honours in Psychology)

  • LASD: Law and Society Diploma

  • B.Ed: Bachelor of Education

  • MA: Master of Arts if Counselling Psychology

  • RP-Q: Registered Psychotherapist-Qualifying

Membership:

  • OCT: Ontario College of Teachers

  • CCPA: The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

  • CRPO: The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

How We Help

Discover Your Unique Journey

At Mind Matter, we honour the richness of your experiences and the complexity of your story. Together, we will navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns, uncovering your strengths and embracing the transformative potential within you.

Tailored, Evidence-Based Care

With a personalized approach rooted in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapy, we integrate proven techniques to address your unique needs and aspirations.

Empowerment and Transformation

Our collaboration is designed to help you build resilience, foster self-discovery, and create positive change. Together, we will illuminate a path to greater balance, empowerment, and a deeper sense of well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The first therapy session stands apart from subsequent sessions as it serves as an essential introduction for both you and me. During this initial encounter, a significant portion of our time will be dedicated to gathering insights into your past experiences, particularly those connected to the challenges that have led you to seek therapy. This may encompass when these difficulties arose, your attempts at coping, and the successes and struggles you've encountered along the way. In addition, we will delve into your aspirations and desired outcomes from our collaborative work.

    Furthermore, the initial session is instrumental in forging the foundation of our therapeutic alliance. Trust is a cornerstone of effective therapy, and its cultivation begins from the very first moment we connect. As our relationship evolves over time, this trust can become a powerful catalyst, enabling you to explore facets of yourself that may have remained uncharted and to effect transformations in your life that once seemed distant.

    Subsequent sessions will be strategically directed towards advancing your therapy objectives. My fundamental belief is that you, as the client, possess unparalleled expertise regarding your own life. While I bring my clinical expertise and support to the table, I view our collaboration as a partnership in which your insights and feedback are of paramount importance. Together, we will draw upon a diverse array of therapeutic techniques, consistently adapting and refining our approach based on your preferences and what proves most effective for you. This synergistic process ensures that our work remains aligned with your unique journey of growth and self-discovery.

  • My therapeutic approach is dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their unique journeys. I deeply appreciate the significance of interpersonal relationships in our daily lives, which is why I often collaborate with clients and their families to foster an environment of support while assisting clients in their therapeutic goals.

    Within my practice, a significant focus is on aiding adolescents and young adults. The adolescent phase of development is intricate and multifaceted. I have experience aiding clients navigating challenges related to peers, school, family relationships, and personal emotions. I've been privileged to work with youth grappling with emotions such as depression and anxiety.

    Furthermore, my expertise extends to assisting clients and their families in addressing a wide spectrum of concerns. My background in private practice has allowed me to effectively guide individuals and families towards healing and growth. I am committed to providing a compassionate and skilled approach to support you and your loved ones on your path to well-being.

  • A typical psychotherapy session spans 50 minutes, providing a structured timeframe for our focused work together. The frequency of these sessions is established through collaborative discussion, taking into account your individual needs and preferences. This determination is made during our initial consultation, where we engage in an open dialogue to ensure that the schedule aligns seamlessly with your therapeutic journey.

  • A standard 50-minute appointment is $120 + HST.

    I understand that cost can be a consideration when seeking therapy. In recognition of this, I offer a sliding scale fee structure to ensure that therapy remains accessible to individuals with varying financial circumstances. This means that I am open to discussing a fee that aligns with your financial capabilities, while still maintaining the quality and effectiveness of our therapeutic work together. My goal is to prioritize your well-being and provide you with the support you need, regardless of financial constraints. Please feel free to inquire about the sliding scale options available and we can work together to find an arrangement that suits your needs. Your journey towards healing and growth is important, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

  • I do not facilitate direct billing with insurance providers. However, I do offer a comprehensive post-session receipt that is sent conveniently via email. This detailed receipt can be submitted to your insurance company for potential reimbursement, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. It's important to note that therapy administered by Registered Psychotherapists is often encompassed within the coverage of numerous extended health insurance plans in Ontario.

    I recommend that you proactively reach out to your insurance provider to ascertain the extent of your coverage before initiating our sessions. This proactive step will enable you to be well-informed about the financial aspect of your therapeutic journey.

  • In the event that you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, kindly provide a 24-hour notice via our app, email, phone, or text.

    Should you miss an appointment without prior cancellation or provide less than 24-hour notice, our policy entails collecting the full payment amount before or at the commencement of your subsequent session.

    Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.

  • If you are considering medication for a mental health concern, it is important to consult with a medical doctor, such as a psychiatrist or a primary care physician, who is licensed and qualified to prescribe medication. They will conduct an assessment to determine if medication is appropriate for your specific situation.

    As a psychotherapist, I am trained to provide therapeutic interventions and support but do not prescribe medication. I can encourage open communication between you and your medical doctor to ensure comprehensive and well-coordinated care.

  • If you or someone you care about is currently going through a mental health crisis, consider reaching out to these resources for immediate assistance:

    Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645

    Distress Centres of Greater Toronto: Toronto: 416-408-4357, Peel: 905-459-7777

    Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

    Remember, you can also call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room for immediate help. Your well-being is important, and reaching out for support is a courageous step toward getting the help you need.