Sharfa Shahid

About Me

I chose the fields of social work and psychotherapy because ultimately, I want to ease suffering. There is a lot of pain in our world and I believe we all have a responsibility to help heal, support, and build our communities. I have personally struggled with mental health challenges in my life and I can recognize the ways systems of oppression have impacted that journey. For me, therapy is about recognizing clients on an individual level while also recognizing the systems they live within and how this impacts their journeys. I recognize that there are some things in our external worlds that are outside of our direct control. Where intervention is possible, I aim to provide support to clients in actionable steps to help address their concerns. Where their external world may not be amendable, I aim to work with clients to build mechanisms for coping and creating joy, contentment, and peace within their lives.

I have worked closely with individuals facing legal issues, struggling with the demands of school/work, and those struggling with family conflicts or interpersonal relationships. I have experience working with individuals diagnosed with a terminal illness, being in a caregiver role, and those mourning the loss of their loved ones.

My approach to therapy is rooted in anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and client centered practice. I recognize that people are the experts of their own lives and I want to meet with them wherever they are in their journey to support them and work together towards their goals.

Expertise

Cognitive behavioural therapy, Dialectical behaviour therapy, Acceptance and commitment therapy, Interpersonal therapy, Solution-focused brief therapy, Narrative therapy

Education

Master of Social Work

Age Groups

Teenagers, adults, and elderly

Availability

Waiting list