
Tara Bijan, BSW, RSW, MSW, Psychotherapist
Life can have a way of challenging us into transitions we didn’t plan for or expect, leaving us feeling unprepared and overwhelmed at times. Maybe you have found yourself navigating the lingering effects of the pandemic, adjusting to in-person routines that now feel foreign or even unsettling. Perhaps you’re grappling with the impact of racial or gender-based trauma presented to you in social, school or work settings, carrying experiences that others might not fully understand. If you’re feeling uncertain, stuck, or simply exhausted, know that you don’t have to face these times alone.
As a first-generation Canadian of Middle Eastern descent, my personal journey within the mental health profession has shaped my therapeutic approach. My family separated when I was young, and navigating the complexities of those early experiences taught me the value of resilience, individuality, and self-discovery. These challenges shaped my ability to adapt and find strength in difficult times, a perspective I value in my work with clients. Being a mindful-based psychotherapist under the Registered Social Worker designation (MSW), I prioritize creating a space where you and your loved ones can explore these life moments in a way that feels safe and empowering. My approach to practice is rooted in supporting clients to understand how their experiences, whether stemming from systemic oppression, personal relationships, or life’s many transitions, have shaped their well-being and can nurture their resilience.
Drawing from a strengths-based practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy through a collaborative and empathetic approach to support clients in making sense and navigating their story. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, the effects of trauma, or the uncertainty of life’s next chapter, I’m here to support you as you navigate this path at your own pace. My goal is to work in collaboration where you can process feelings, find clarity and welcome a life that feels more aligned with your values and vision for the future.
Starting the therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming, but it also grants the possibility for growth. If you’re ready to take that first step toward clarity I offer a complimentary 20-minute consultation to explore what brings you to For Health’s Sake and answer any questions you may have. Let’s start this journey together.
*Insurance Coverage Social Work*
Languages:
- English.
- Conversational in Farsi.
Ages I Work With:
Young Adults, Adults, Seniors.
Trained In:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
- Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
I Can Help With:
- Anxiety & Depression
- Body image
- Developing goals for the future (education, career, etc.)
- Emotional dysregulation
- Family & parenting issues
- Grief and loss
- Improving Self Esteem
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Life transitions
- Pre and postnatal support
- Perinatal Grief and Loss: supporting miscarriages and abortions
- Relationship difficulties
- Stress Management
- Suicidality & self-harm
- Trauma & PTSD
- Work & School stress
Offerings:
Available In-Clinic at our Downtown Location and Virtually
- Individual Therapy
- Relationship Therapy
- Family Therapy
Education
- Master of Social Work (MSW) (Advanced Standing), University of Toronto (2024), Specialized in Children and Their Families.
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Toronto Metropolitan University in (2023).
- Minor in Politics, Toronto Metropolitan University in (2023).
Continuing Education
- Interprofessional Education Curriculum (IPE) (2024) – University of Toronto and the Toronto Academic Health Science Network with the University Health Network
- National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (2024) – Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
- Assembling the Pieces (2024) – Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
- Global Learning Academy for Mental Health- Understanding Stigma (2024) – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Depression 101 CAMH (2024) – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Addiction 101 CAMH (2024) – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Youth and Mental Health 101 CAMH (2024) – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) (2024) – Ontario Government | Gouvernement de l’Ontario
- Toronto Autism & Mental Health Community of Practice (2024) – Children’s Mental Health Ontario
- Creative CBT Interventions for Children with Anxiety Course – SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health Learning Institute – (Ongoing, expected February 25, 2025)
- Death and Dying Course at Toronto Rehab March 2024: psycho-social and spiritual considerations for supporting clients before, during and after a death.
Additional Qualifications
- ASIST Suicide Training certified.
- AODA certified.
Affiliations
- College of Registered Social Workers of Ontario.
