About Sonali Sagare
Hello,
Welcome to my practice! With roots in India and 25 years of experience in Canada, I integrate South Asian cultural insights with a global perspective. As the first immigrant medical doctor in my family, I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges related to mental health, trauma, and addiction within the healthcare field. Having raised a child in Canada, I have navigated the complexities of blending cultural values at home while addressing the challenges he faced in a different environment. I believe that effective parenting is central to achieving this balance.
With extensive experience working with teenagers, adults, couples, groups, and families, I bring a diverse skill set to each session. Over 20 years, I have been deeply engaged with a non-profit organization focused on community development, specializing in capacity building for adults, youth, and pregnant women with children. In addition, I have worked alongside health professionals and social service workers, offering consultations and training sessions to help enhance their skills and effectiveness in supporting our communities. This holistic approach enriches the support I offer to clients, ensuring a comprehensive and empathetic experience.
My mission is to empower individuals and families to navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your concerns, uncover your strengths, and work towards achieving your goals.
Thank you for considering me as a partner in your journey towards healing and personal growth. Together, we can strive for a brighter, more fulfilling future.
My Background
"I offer my services to individuals of all ages, including adults, children, and youth, from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, I bring a specific understanding of South Asian cultures and experiences to cater to the unique needs of this community."
I offer empathetic, culturally informed care for individuals and families, addressing issues like emotional and physical abuse, parenting challenges, grief, anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship dynamics, substance use, and trauma.
My holistic, client-centered approach ensures gender-sensitive and culturally relevant support at every stage of life.
My Qualifications
- Advanced Health System Leadership program –University of Toronto
- Registered Psychotherapist - College of Registered Psychotherapists
- Master of Education - Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto
- MBBS Shivaji University, Kolhapur, India
- Postgraduate Medical Diploma in Otolaryngology - College of Physicians and Surgeons, Bombay, India
- Professional Addictions Counselor
Certificate of Achievement
- TEACH – Certified Consultant in Smoking Cessation and Awareness
- FASD - Certified consultant for FASD (fetal alcohol spectrum disorder)
- PRIMA - Certified Trainer for PRIMA – Pregnancy related issues in Management of Addiction
- Training Enhancement in Applied Cessation Counseling and Health
My Approach
In your journey through challenging times, my commitment is to walk alongside you with compassion and without judgment, offering support through a Trauma-Informed, collaborative, and strength-based approach.
My goal is to help you cultivate a positive sense of self, foster deeper connections within yourself and your family, and thrive as a confident, contributing member of society.
My therapeutic approach is multifaceted, drawing from a range of evidence-based practices to meet your unique needs.
These include:
- Person-Centered / Strength-Based: Tailoring therapy to your individual strengths and goals, ensuring a collaborative and empowering experience.
- Trauma-Focused: Acknowledging the impact of trauma on your life and providing a safe space for healing and growth.
- Attachment-Based Therapy: Addressing relational patterns to foster deeper connections and healing.
- Holistic Approaches: Incorporating practices like yoga, nutrition, exercise, and alternative therapies to support your overall well-being and healing journey.
- Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT, EFT, and Mindfulness: Utilizing a variety of approaches to help you explore and reframe your experiences, manage emotions, and build resilience.
I believe in the transformative power of therapy to facilitate profound change and growth.
Together, we can explore your inner strengths, rewrite your narrative, and embark on a path toward greater self-awareness, healing, and fulfillment.