Kimberly Pavan

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Viktor Frankl

With over 25 years of experience in education and a deep passion for mental health, I bring a unique blend of knowledge, empathy, and advocacy to my work as a psychotherapist.

My career has been dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges, fostering resilience, and promoting personal empowerment. I believe that every person has the capacity to grow, heal, and create meaningful change, and my role is to provide the compassionate guidance and practical tools to help them navigate this journey.

At the heart of my practice is a commitment to compassion, equity, integrity, and support. I have worked extensively with diverse and marginalized populations, recognizing the profound impact of systemic barriers, cultural experiences, and personal histories on mental health.

My approach is culturally responsive, inclusive, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I strive to create a safe and affirming space where clients feel truly heard, respected, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences without fear of judgment.

A Unique Blend of Experience

In addition to my work as a psychotherapist, I have had a long-standing career in higher education leadership and program development, working with thousands of individuals to support their academic, professional, and personal growth. I have developed programs that promote self-awareness and skill-building while advocating for equitable access to education and mental health resources.

My diverse background—spanning academic institutions, NGOs, and international organizations—has given me a broad and holistic perspective on mental health, education, and personal development. 

I have been with my best friend & the love of my life for 33 years! We have 2 children, 2 cats, 1 dog, and a house full of hair! I have personal experience with perinatal and menopausal well-being, supporting neurodivergent children and adults, supporting loved ones through mental health challenges, and managing complex elder caregiving (the “sandwich generation”).

These experiences have deepened my appreciation for human resilience, the importance of personal stories, and the power that comes from being truly being seen and heard.

Why Work With Me

Whether you are struggling with emotional distress, feeling stuck in negative patterns, or seeking greater clarity and confidence in your life, I am here to provide empowering support for your journey.

I like providing support, guidance and help in unravelling life’s “knots”. Together, we can work towards greater clarity, healing, and emotional well-being. Your journey matters, and I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way 

I believe that healing happens through authentic, trusting relationships. My therapeutic approach is deeply client-centred, meaning I meet you where you are, work at your pace, and support you in defining your own goals for therapy. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, or major life transitions, I integrate evidence-based strategies that promote healing, growth, and self-discovery.

Using a combination of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), trauma-informed care, and attachment-based principles, I help clients:

• Process difficult emotions such as grief, shame, fear, and anger in a non-threatening way

• Identify and shift negative relational patterns that create distance in relationships

• Develop healthier ways to express needs and vulnerabilities, fostering deeper connections

• Strengthen self-awareness and emotional resilience

Professional Background

Education

• 2025- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology

• 2005-Master of Business Administration (MBA) 

• 1998- Bachelor of Arts, Double Honours Degree- Anthropology Latin American & Caribbean Studies

Professional Affiliations & Commitment to Growth

To ensure I provide the highest quality of care, I stay actively engaged in professional development and ongoing research through my memberships in:

• Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP) – Supporting mental health service providers and advocating for best practices

• Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) – Advancing the practice of psychotherapy across Canada

• College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) – Upholding ethical and professional standards in psychotherapy

• Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA) – Staying informed on best practices for ADHD assessment and treatment

• Centre for Grief and Healing (CGH) – Volunteering as a Group Facilitator, providing compassionate peer support for those coping with loss

These affiliations allow me to remain at the forefront of emerging trends in psychotherapy and continuously refine my practice to meet the evolving needs of my clients.

Things I bet you didn't know about me:

• I worked as an intern at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington DC, in the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission. 

• I was adopted by an Italian family, and I spoke only Italian until I was 5 years old!

• I lived and studied in Mexico City

• Guilty pleasure: I have watched General Hospital for 35 years!