Our staff is always here to help
Lydia Banner
MSc, RMFT
Lydia is a dedicated marriage and family therapist who brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her practice at MindSoul Club. With her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Alberta and a background in cultural anthropology, Lydia offers a rich, multifaceted approach to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's complexities.
Educational Background and Expertise:
- Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Alberta
- Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology, University of British Columbia
- Certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples
- Trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 3)
Specializations:
- Intercultural relationships and cross-cultural communication
- Blended family dynamics and stepfamily integration
- Premarital counseling and newlywed adjustment
- LGBTQ+ affirming therapy
- Immigration-related family stress and acculturation issues
- Intergenerational conflict resolution
With over a decade of experience, Lydia has honed her skills in addressing the unique challenges faced by diverse families and couples. Her anthropological background allows her to bring cultural sensitivity and a global perspective to her therapeutic approach, making her particularly adept at helping clients navigate cultural differences within their relationships.
Lydia is known for her warm, empathetic presence and her ability to create a safe, non-judgmental space for all her clients. She employs a variety of evidence-based techniques, including narrative therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and mindfulness practices, tailoring her approach to meet each client's specific needs.
In addition to her clinical work, Lydia is an active member of the Canadian Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and regularly conducts workshops on intercultural communication and blended family dynamics. She is fluent in English, French, and Mandarin, allowing her to serve a diverse clientele.
Whether you're struggling with cultural misunderstandings, navigating the complexities of a blended family, or simply seeking to improve your relationships, Lydia is here to guide you on your journey towards harmony and understanding.
Zarah Mahmoud
MSW, RSW
Zarah Mahmoud is a dedicated and innovative therapist who has quickly become an integral part of the MindSoul Club team. Born and raised in Oshawa, Ontario, Zarah's approach to therapy is deeply rooted in her commitment to fostering resilience and well-being in her community and beyond.
Educational Background and Credentials:
- Master of Social Work, Wilfrid Laurier University
- Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Ontario Tech University (formerly UOIT)
- Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
- Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Professional Focus: Zarah specializes in integrating positive psychology principles with traditional therapeutic approaches. Her work focuses on:
- Building resilience and coping skills
- Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques
- Strength-based interventions
- Improving self-esteem and confidence
- Enhancing personal relationships and communication skills
At MindSoul Club, Zarah leads engaging group therapy sessions that blend evidence-based practices with research on happiness and well-being. Her groups are known for their supportive atmosphere and practical, actionable strategies for personal growth.
Community Involvement: Passionate about giving back to her hometown, Zarah regularly volunteers at Oshawa community centers, focusing on youth mental health workshops. She actively participates in local mental health initiatives, bringing valuable resources to the Durham Region.
Professional Approach: Known for her warm, engaging style, Zarah creates a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their potential and overcome obstacles. She believes in the innate capacity of every individual to grow and thrive, even in the face of life's challenges.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, seeking to improve your overall well-being, or looking to find more satisfaction in your daily life, Zarah offers a fresh, practical approach to help you on your journey. Her unique blend of Oshawa roots, solid education, and innovative techniques makes her a valuable asset to the MindSoul Club family and the local community.
Amelia Forrester
MA, RCC
Amelia Forrester is a compassionate and skilled Registered Clinical Counsellor with 5 years of dedicated experience in the mental health field. Based in West Vancouver, she has established herself as a valued member of the MindSoul Club team while also contributing to a thriving private practice.
Educational Background and Credentials:
- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, University of British Columbia
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Simon Fraser University
- Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
- Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Specializations: Amelia specializes in treating anxiety disorders and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her areas of expertise include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety
- Trauma and PTSD
- Stress Management
Therapeutic Approach: Amelia's approach is primarily rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which she combines with mindfulness techniques to create a holistic treatment plan tailored to each client's needs. She believes in empowering her clients with practical tools and strategies they can use in their daily lives.
Professional Experience: In addition to her role at MindSoul Club, Amelia is part of a respected private practice in West Vancouver. This dual experience allows her to bring a wide range of insights and techniques to her therapeutic work, benefiting clients with diverse needs and backgrounds.
Personal Touch: Known for her warm and approachable demeanor, Amelia creates a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their challenges. She is passionate about guiding her clients towards greater self-understanding and emotional resilience.
Community Involvement: Amelia is actively involved in the West Vancouver community, offering workshops on stress management and anxiety reduction techniques at local community centers and schools. She is committed to increasing mental health awareness and reducing stigma in her community.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, working through trauma, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, Amelia offers a supportive and effective approach to therapy. Her combination of professional expertise and genuine compassion makes her a trusted guide on your journey to mental health and personal growth.
Opinions about us
“The atmosphere here is truly transformative. My practice has reached a level of depth I never thought possible.”
“The therapy sessions helped me find my center during a very turbulent time in my life. Highly recommended.”
“Expert guidance and a beautiful space. It's more than a studio, it's a community for the soul.”
“I've tried many studios, but the holistic approach here is unmatched. My body and mind feel more aligned than ever.”