Pooya Bahmanikia
Pooya Bahmanikia
M.Psy.

About Pooya Bahmanikia

Pooya Bahmanikia, M.Psy., RP is a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario. Pooya holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and an Honours Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from York University, graduating with Highest Distinction (summa cum laude). Pooya’s practice is grounded in empathy, cultural humility, and evidence-based care, and integrates multiple modalities to meet each client where they are. Pooya provides therapy in English and Farsi (Persian).

Pooya uses an integrative, trauma-informed approach drawing from: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Existential Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), Schema Therapy, Self-Compassion, Solution-Focused and Strength-Based therapies, and Trauma-Focused interventions.

 

 

Areas of focus include:

• Stress & Anxiety: generalized and social anxiety, panic attacks, burnout, sleep issues
• Trauma & Abuse: single-incident and complex trauma, PTSD
• Relationships: communication, intimacy, family dynamics, separation/divorce, infidelity, isolation
• Mood & Behavioural Disorders: depression, bipolar spectrum, OCD, ADHD, autism spectrum, anger and emotion regulation, eating disorders, personality disorders, impulse-control and adjustment disorders, rejection sensitivity
• Identity & Lived Experience: 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming care, body image, gender identity, racial identity, immigration and integration, cross-cultural issues, marginalization/oppression, impostor syndrome, perfectionism, self-esteem, boundaries
• Grief & Loss: death and bereavement, dementia-related caregiving and loss
• Life Transitions: major life changes across school, work, and family roles
• Physical Health & Phobias: chronic illness and pain, agoraphobia and other specific phobias, health anxiety


Frequently Asked Questions

A Naturopathic Doctor (ND) is one who has completed a post-graduate 4 year program in Naturopathic Medicine and has passed multiple theoretical and practical board exams. Their education consists of both conventional and traditional medicines, with a research based approach. NDs provide treatments for any disease or condition, and also focus on preventative care and health maintenance. Although they work very closely with pharmaceuticals, their treatments mostly focus on diet and nutrition, lifestyle management, optimal supplementation, acupuncture, botanical medicine, physical medicine, counselling and homeopathy.

An ND or Doula is someone who will attentively listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to cater to your needs. Your practitioner will engage in discussions to educate you about your health issues, assess the advantages and disadvantages of treatment, and promptly address your inquiries. These appointments provide ample time for thorough discussions and meaningful interactions, allowing patients to express themselves, ask questions and gain understanding of their health journeys.

Examples of therapies offered include:

* Physical therapies: Hands-on techniques, massage, cupping

* Relaxation techniques: Breathing techniques, visualizations, positive affirmations, meditation, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy

* Acupressure/Acupuncture 

* Herbal medicine and proper supplementation

* Lifestyle modification, exercise planning and nutrition guidance

For naturopathic services and/or doula services, please contact us through our website contact form page or via email at serene.healthclinic@gmail.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Services may be claimed through Naturopathy covered under most extended health care benefits plans. Coverage differs for all individuals based on the insurance plan. Doula services as well as Naturopathic appointments can be claimed under insurance.

Choosing when to seek a doula is an individual decision for every family. Whether it is in the first, second or third trimester, it is always an appropriate time to bring on a doula. The most common time to start working with a Doula is in the second trimester. 

Having a Doula means having a familiar face every step of the way of your journey. Explanation of medical terminology and medical procedures, informing families on their rights, educating and equipping you with tools and having physical support throughout labour and birth are the areas that families find most helpful. Your Doula can also provide support for elected or spontaneous C-sections. 

Women who use a Doula have shorter labours and hospital stays, reduced use of medical interventions, reduced rates of cesarians and less traumatic experiences.