Meet Ardina (Dina) 

Ardina is a passionate and empathetic psychotherapist with a strong academic foundation in psychology and counselling. She holds an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brock University, a Diploma in Advanced Sciences from Niagara College, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) from Yorkville University. Ardina is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, with a primary focus on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Her approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and the belief that healing begins when we feel truly heard. One of her guiding principles comes from Louise Hay: “You’ve been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” Ardina believes in the power of awareness—of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours—and strives to create a safe, supportive, and empowering space for her clients.

She works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, supporting clients across the lifespan and in diverse relational contexts. Her goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively with clients to understand who they are, what matters most to them, and what they would like to change or strengthen in their lives. Ardina helps clients notice unhelpful thinking patterns, gently challenge them, and develop more balanced, supportive ways of thinking. She also focuses on strengthening areas of life where clients have control while practicing acceptance in areas that may be outside their control—both essential aspects of emotional wellbeing.

Therapy with Ardina is a collaborative and supportive process. She provides guidance, tools, and psychoeducation, and strongly encourages therapeutic “homework”—small, manageable practices to apply insights from sessions into daily life. She emphasizes that lasting change comes from the client’s engagement in the process, and she welcomes feedback to ensure sessions remain meaningful and aligned with each individual’s needs. Therapy can be a space to vent, reflect, and process difficult experiences, as well as a place to grow, build skills, and gain confidence in moving toward the person you want to be.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating. Taking this step often requires courage, vulnerability, and a willingness to look inward. If you are here, you have already taken a meaningful first step toward caring for yourself.

Before we begin, it is essential that you feel the right fit with your therapist. Therapy works best when you feel comfortable, supported, and aligned in how you learn and grow. If at any point you feel that my approach is not the right fit for you, I will not take offence. This is your time to advocate for yourself and your needs. Finding the right therapeutic relationship is a meaningful part of the process