Do people assume you are doing fine, but inside you feel unsettled, disconnected, or unsure? Have you started noticing patterns in your relationships, like over-giving, shutting down, intense reactions, or losing yourself just to keep the peace?

Ria works with adults beginning to untangle the impact of authoritarian or emotionally enmeshed environments on their sense of self. Many of her clients grew up or spent formative years in systems where performance, obedience, image, or caretaking were prioritized over authenticity. Over time, this may leave you successful on paper but confused in your relationships, unsure of your needs, and carrying anger or grief that never had space to be expressed.

Therapy with Ria focuses on rebuilding a stable, internally grounded identity. Together, you will explore relational patterns, emotional reactivity, suppressed anger, people-pleasing dynamics, and the quiet fear of being “too much” or “not enough.” This work often includes processing relationship loss, navigating shifting boundaries, and learning how to stay connected to yourself while staying connected to others.

Ria has particular experience supporting clients recovering from high-control communities, including religious environments where asking questions or differentiation felt unsafe. Whether you are integrating your faith in a healthier way, reconstructing long-held beliefs, or stepping away from a reactive family system, she provides space for thoughtful, non-judgmental exploration.

Ria holds a Master of Divinity in Clinical Counselling from Tyndale University and brings extensive cross-cultural experience, including work with third-culture individuals, immigrants, and those navigating multiple identities. Her approach draws from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and attachment-focused trauma work. Modalities are used intentionally, but the heart of all therapy is relational repair and identity reclamation.

If you are ready to move beyond just “doing fine” to build personal and professional relationships that feel mutual, grounded, and honest, Ria will work in collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure your care plan is comprehensive, personalized, and empowering.