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, and highly competitive. I understand the modern-day stressors of navigating a demanding corporate career while balancing parental guilt and burnout. In 2021, I got the opportunity to pursue my Masters in Counselling and while it was a massive leap of faith, I knew that this is what I loved to do best. I love listening to the stories of humans, marvelling 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.

As an Indian-Canadian immigrant, I have experienced the challenges people face as they navigate their cultural identities. The experience of straddling multiple cultural, and religious identities is demanding. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and culturally responsive space for my clients. 

Another special area of interest for me is perinatal and postpartum mental health. Being a new mom, despite believing I had all the information, I was surprised at how isolated I felt. It felt like I was the only one experiencing these difficulties. I want to stress you are not alone. Wherever you are in your reproductive journey (including infertility and loss) I will be there to hold you with compassion. 

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

Why Work With Me

• 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.