Rapinder Kaur Registered Art Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist, Founder, Managing Director She/Her

Rapinder Kaur is a Registered Psychotherapist and Art Therapist, clinical supervisor, educator, experienced facilitator, community organizer, and sought-after public speaker. She is the founder of Art as Therapy, a community-based private therapy practice, and has over 23 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families. Rapinder’s work began supporting children who experienced developmental and relational trauma, including those impacted by child welfare involvement, foster care transitions, reintegration, and adoption-related identity disruption. She has worked closely with community agencies and child welfare systems to support clients, particularly those with marginalized identities, in strengthening their sense of identity, belonging, and connection. Rapinder has worked across a wide range of settings including schools, women’s shelters, psychiatric hospitals, group homes, long-term care, and social service agencies. Her current clinical focus includes supporting parents on the complex and rewarding journey of caregiving, as well as supporting adults through inner child work and relational healing. Her approach is strength-based and grounded in neurobiological, relational psychotherapy, cultural humility, anti-racist and anti-oppressive frameworks, and trauma- and attachment-informed care.

Rapinder is deeply interested in liberation arts and how creative practices can support individual and community empowerment while disrupting systems of oppression. She has facilitated workshops and presented nationally and internationally, and her commitment to systemic change extends beyond the therapy room through community presentations, workshops, and exhibitions designed to bridge divides and connect people across difference. Rapinder is a former Chair and Board Director for Dufferin Child and Family Services and Family Transition Place, and currently volunteers with the Sikh National Archives of Canada.

Dalvir Sahota Practice Manager Human Resources + Client Care Coordinator She/her

Dalvir is a dedicated administrator, experienced HR specialist and committed to providing excellence in customer care. She has substantial experience in payroll, accounts payable bringing keen financial acumen. Dalvir is creative, incredibly resourceful, making beautiful things from seemingly nothing and has flair for interior design. While she will be mostly working remotely you may see her occasionally at the Orangeville and Brampton locations.

Julia Troiani Registered Psychotherapist, Art Therapist She/her

Julia Troiani is a passionate art therapist who sees how powerful art can be as a form of expression when words are not enough. After completing her bachelor of design in Illustration from the Ontario Collage of Art and Design, she graduated from the Toronto Art Therapy Institute, ready to use her skills to help others. One of Julia’s favourite forms of art therapy is textile based and for her thesis special project she organized the construction of a communal quilt with the older adults, patients of the Toronto Rehab Institute, linking textile based art therapy with story telling. 

Julia has worked with youth in crisis, students at alternative schools, older adults, and adults living in psychiatric facilities. Julia’s approach to art therapy is client centred, knowing that everyone’s individual experiences shape their world view and that as a therapist, she is there to help navigate. Julia’s ultimate goal as a therapist is to help her clients see their inner worth and strengths while helping them identify their emotions through their art. Julia works out of our Orangeville and Brampton location.

Cassandra Brennan, Registered Psychotherapist, Drama Therapist + Community Connections & Advocacy Coordinator They/Them

Arshin Agashteh Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Art Therapist She/her

Arshin Agashteh is an art therapist and psychotherapist who works with children, adolescents, and adults through a creative, relational, and reflective lens. With academic training in Clinical Psychology, Fine Art, and Art Therapy, she approaches the therapeutic space as a living field where images, sensations, and inner narratives often emerge before words fully arrive.

She completed her bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology in Iran, followed by a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a master’s degree in Visual Art. Arshin later pursued professional training in Art Therapy at the Kutenai Art Therapy Institute (KATI), where her clinical approach deepened alongside her long-standing artistic practice.

Arshin trusts creativity as a natural human capacity that allows individuals to see differently, feel more deeply, and shift their relationship with themselves and others. She believes that when people enter creative processes beyond habit and expectation, subtle yet transformative shifts become possible, with imagination serving as a doorway to insight and integration.

She works with a range of creative media, somatic awareness, and gentle reflection, supporting clients in exploring difficult emotions, reconnecting with inner resources, and moving at a pace that feels grounded and safe. In her work with adults, she also integrates dream work, allowing symbolic imagery to unfold through art, dialogue, and embodied awareness.

Her approach is client-centred and culturally responsive, grounded in respect, curiosity, and relational presence. Arshin views each person as carrying a unique symbolic landscape shaped by culture, memory, imagination, and lived experience, and within the therapeutic space, these symbols become a way for clients to express their truth and feel genuinely seen and understood. Arshin provides support online and in person at our Brampton office. Arshin can offer support in Persian (Farsi) as well as English.

Mariska Dickison, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Art Therapist (DTATI Candidate) She/her

Mariska is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a candidate for the graduate diploma with Toronto Art Therapy Institute.  Her first career was with the Peel District School board as an elementary teacher for 15 years.  As a member of the Ontario College of Teachers, Mariska has experience teaching Drama, Music, Visual Art and Special Education.  Becoming an art therapist has been a lifelong journey of transformation and learning while growing alongside her three children.  In her free time, you will find Mariska practicing Yoga, hiking, singing and reading.

Mariska is passionate about supporting the wellbeing of those who support others, the caretakers of the world.   She works within a Person-centred model of care incorporating somatic and polyvagal informed practices of Art Therapy.  Mariska is an ally of the LGBTQIA2S+ while practicing cultural humility and a strong supporter of the Neurodiverse movement, always learning from the stories of her clients as the experts of their own lives.

Sanjeet Kaur Mental Health & Trauma Therapist She/her

Sanjeet is a registered social worker specializing in couples therapy, trauma, anxiety, depression and overall mental wellness. Using a variety of therapeutic modalities such as; CBT, narrative therapy and emotion focused therapy, Sanjeet has supported her clients to uncover hidden insights, strengths, needs and solutions and helped them with their mental wellness goals. With over 14 years of experience, Sanjeet has provided support through compassionate, collaborative, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive practice. Sanjeet speaks panjabi as well as English. Sanjeet currently provides support to adults via phone and or video sessions.

Sandra Rojo Executive Client Care Coordinator + Accounting She/her

Sandra holds a Masters in Human Resources. Her main professional experience has been in the administrative area, she was part of the Human Resources team at the Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita Mexico, her activities included coordinated the training / learning area in the Hotel. She co-founded one of the first offices that provides Human Resources & Accounting services in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (still operates in that city). Sandra was part of the first group of people in Puerto Vallarta to get a national certification that allowed her to provide training courses with official recognition from The Ministry of Labour and Social in Mexico. She also has a life coaching certification and a degree in Psychology. She is very passionate about administration tasks and is always willing to help others. While you might not see Sandra in person, she busy working behind the scenes to ensure our clients what they need especially with respect to billing.

Sarah Jefferies Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Art Therapist

Abir Ali Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Art Therapist She/her

Abir has discovered through creative self-exploration, we are able to deepen our awareness, understanding, and compassion for ourselves and ultimately experience healing. She believes that her clients are the experts of themselves, and she is there to create a calm, safe space where she can collaboratively support clients in discovering their wisdom.

Abir strongly believes in the power of altruism and values community in combination with creativity and healing. She is pursuing her graduate thesis in exploring how cultural artistic traditions can support individuals and communities in decolonization and reclaiming identity.

Abir is committed to anti-racism, anti-oppression and is inspired by Islamic psychology and positive psychology. Abir has experience and is interested in supporting BIPOC mental health including immigrants, refugees, newcomers, and members of any faith, while embodying cultural humility. She is also interested in supporting children, teens, and adults navigating varying challenges such as grief, loss, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and the impacts of trauma.

Abir is currently offering art therapy services online and has experience providing individual and group therapy. Abir speaks English and Urdu. Abir recognizes that seeking therapy can be a big step for many individuals for reasons such as judgment, stereotypes, and fear. However, Abir has belief in the therapeutic process and will always co-work with a client to support them with their emotions.

Abir provides services primarily online for individuals and groups.

Celeste Barbieri Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Art Therapist (DTATI Candidate) She/her

Hello, my name is Celeste and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at Art as Therapy. I completed my Art Therapy education at Toronto Art Therapy Institute and I am in the process of completing my clinical hours and major project for graduation. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Guelph-Humber and a life-long passion for visual arts. My approach to Art Psychotherapy is person-centered and rooted in a psychoeducational, explorative and playful approach. Engaging in art making is something I often do alongside my clients as we get to know one another. I look forward to working with clients of all ages and backgrounds at our Orangeville and Milton locations.

Maria Rodriguez

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Art Therapist she/her

Maria is passionate about supporting her clients through engaging them in the creative process that leads to self-discovery and growth. She fosters a warm, uplifting, and hope-instilling environment in her sessions, where clients feel empowered to explore their cognitive, emotional, physiological, and behavioral needs. By using a strength-based, client-centered approach, Maria encourages clients to use both verbal and non-verbal forms of expression to explore their emotions, helping them reframe and gain new perspectives on their experiences. With experience working with children, including those with ASD, FASD, ADHD, and behavioral and emotional regulation concerns, Maria also provides support to adults, offers parent consultations, and facilitates family sessions. Her background includes working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, and long-term care, where she has conducted both individual and group therapy. Maria is also skilled in leading art therapy workshops for organizations, adapting to the specific themes and needs of the participants.

She is a Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist, and completed her Art Therapy training at the Toronto Art Therapy Institute. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and offers in-person support at the Brampton office.

Nel Slater

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Professional Art Therapist (She/Her)

Nel knows that we all struggle at some point. She believes that everyone deserves support when life gets you down. Nel not only listens effectively, she has a professional background as a career counsellor and before that, a pastor. She has two undergraduate degrees, a post-graduate certificate and is now nearing completion of the Art Psychotherapy training with the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy.
Nel works with teens and adults in the following areas:
- Grief & life transitions
- Emotional Intelligence
- Pain Management
- CBT & Art Therapy for Anxiety & Depression
- Adult children of aging parents for Boundaries & Self-care
Nel provides group art therapy workshops and art hives in Milton. Nel is offering individual support in person at our Milton office as well as remotely.

Katie Corcoran Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) She/Her

Katie Corcoran completed her training in Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. Guided by a genuine passion for helping others, Katie approaches each session with curiosity and compassion, working collaboratively to honour her clients' strengths and support them as the experts in their own lives. She draws from a range of therapeutic approaches, tailoring her support to each individual's unique needs and life experiences. You may have previously seen Katie at our front desk in Orangeville, where she offered kindness and joy in her role as a Client Care Coordinator. Katie is offering support to children, teens and their parents in person In Orangeville as well as online.

Grace Nieon Wang Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Grace is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She is also an art therapist currently enrolled at the Toronto Art Therapy Institute (TATI).

Grace believes that art-making is more than self-expression, it’s a powerful portal for self-discovery and healing. Through creative expression, individuals can explore their authentic selves, reflect on their experiences, and connect with their emotions verbally and non-verbally. She is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where people feel accepted, empowered, and encouraged to grow.

Grace specializes in working with children and teens, helping them navigate challenges through developmental stages, including emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship dynamics, and life transitions.

Her approach to art therapy is flexible and inclusive, and no prior art experience is required to benefit from her sessions. Grace is guided by curiosity, compassion, playfulness, and a deep respect for every individual's unique journey; she meets clients where they are, honouring their pace and process.

Grounded in person-centered care, Grace integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), strength-based practices, and creative art interventions into her work. As an East Asian woman, she brings a culturally sensitive, anti-oppressive lens to her practice, recognizing the importance of identity, community, and lived experience as integral pillars of the healing process.

Grace provides services in English and Mandarin.

“I will support you in the process of making, whether it’s making art, making sense, or making connections.” Grace offers in person and online support at our Orangeville location.

Emma Corcoran Client Care Coordinator She/her

Emma is currently enrolled in a Leadership High Skills Major program, where she has completed a variety of certifications that highlight her dedication to learning and helping others. She has gained meaningful experience working with children through a kindergarten co-op placement, where she discovered her passion for supporting and encouraging young learners. With her passion for working with youth and her past experience in a kindergarten setting, Emma is committed in building meaningful connections and supporting Art as Therapy’s work in combining care with creativity

Rupinder Kaur Ph.D. Chartered Psychologist, Systemic Practitioner, Candidate for the Art Psychotherapy (She/Her)

Rupinder’s journey into art therapy was inspired by her lifelong passion for the arts and a deep conviction that creative expression is a powerful, universal tool capable of transcending barriers. She believes that creativity manifests in many forms, and everyone has an innate ability to access their own unique creative potential. This belief guides her approach as a therapist—supporting clients to explore their inner worlds through a process that honors their individual stories and strengths.

With a Ph.D. in Psychology and a Post Graduate Certificate in Family Therapy, Rupinder brings a nuanced understanding of therapeutic practices rooted in trauma and attachment-informed approaches, delivered with cultural humility. She has gained valuable experience teaching in educational institutions as well as working in diverse clinical settings, including psychiatric hospitals, community organizations providing mental health services for refugees and asylum seekers experiencing complex trauma, survivors of domestic violence, and private practices. She supports individuals, couples, families, and groups, emphasizing care that is respectful, compassionate, and empowering.

Rupinder believes therapy is a collaborative journey. She creates a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing space, where individuals from all backgrounds and experiences are invited to explore their stories and feelings, even those that seem overwhelming. Her goal is to foster an environment where you feel understood and supported, helping you find clarity and self-compassion as you navigate your unique journey through artmaking.

Rupinder speaks English, Punjabi, and Hindi, and offers support both online. She also facilitates Art as Therapy’s art hive and group art therapy programs at the Milton Public Library. Rupinder is able to offer a sliding-scale fee for clients while she completes her registration hours. Connect with us today to book.