Puja Devanand Rao

It takes courage to ask for help and walking with you on this journey will be my privilege.

Hello! I am Puja (pronounced ‘Poo-Ja’), and I use the pronouns she/her. I am married, and a mom to a toddler and two adorable cats. I spent a long time in the corporate world, where I experienced the joys of achievement and income stability. However, it was also stressful, highly competitive, sometimes left me feeling ethically compromised. I understand the modern-day stressors of navigating a demanding corporate career while balancing (parental) guilt and burnout. I am passionate about offering clients a space to process your work and life stressors. Together we will develop coping strategies to manage burnout, address feelings of parental guilt with self-compassion and process the toll the (corporate) world can sometimes take on your wellbeing and relationships. I would love to support you in rediscovering you purpose, establishing healthier boundaries, and find work-life balance that feels just right for you.

Another special interest of mine is perinatal and postpartum mental health. As a first-time mother, I was struck by how isolating the experience could feel, even though I thought I was well-prepared. I want you to know that you are not alone. Wherever you are on your reproductive journey—whether navigating infertility, coping with loss, or adjusting to parenthood—I am here to offer compassionate space for you to understand the wild emotional journey that is parenthood and the sometimes unhelpful thoughts we have about ourselves and our partners. 

I am also passionate about working with clients who are navigating the complexities of balancing multiple cultural and religious identities. As an Indian-Canadian immigrant, I to have experienced the challenges one faces. In therapy, we can explore identity conflicts, foster self-acceptance and integration, and develop strategies to manage cultural expectations and cope with feelings of isolation or discrimination. I am here to provide you a culturally responsive and nonjudgmental space where you can learn to integrate your diverse identities in a way that feels authentic and empowering to you.

Lastly, I am also deeply interested in helping people navigate relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and loss.

Why Work With Me

The opportunity to pursue a Masters in Counselling Psychology felt like a calling, and though it was a massive leap of faith, I knew that its what I needed to do. I love listening to the stories of humans, marveling at our resilience and how we surmount the unbelievable challenges we face. I am incredibly passionate about my clients and the work that I get to do every single day.

• My approach is inclusive with a strong multicultural and anti-oppressive lens.

• I will take the time to listen and get to know the real you. You will be met with compassion and deep respect. 

• Interweaving the tenets of attachment theory and the unique strengths of individuals, I strive to empower you to become your most resilient self. 

Professional Background

• Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

• Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University 

• Bachelor of Arts, Psychology - Bangalore University, India 

Things I bet you didn't know about me:

• I am an avid bookworm, reading over 50 books in a year. 

• I did not know how to cook until I turned 30, now I am fairly accomplished in the kitchen. 

• My social media feed is mainly cats and dogs being their adorable selves.