Ashiya Desai (She, Her, They)

Clinical Social Worker/ Child, Adolescent & Family Therapist

My name is Ashiya and I’ve been specializing in working with children, teens and their families since 2008. I earned my Masters in (Clinical) Social Work from the University of Toronto in 2011 and have since been practicing at community-based Children’s Mental Health centres. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing profound change, regardless of how challenging or big a problem seemed at first, and these experiences have reminded me of the resiliency, courage and strength that lives within all of us, regardless of age. My approach is systems-based, meaning that I view families as a central part of a young person’s support system, and while my role in their lives is temporary, a caregiver/parent’s role is not.

Knowing that, I believe that exploring and strengthening family relationships in a safe and supportive therapy setting, often results in better mental health and wellbeing for all members of the family.

As a mother, I now know that our work as parents and caregivers never really ends. So, whether you’re here because of concerns following a traumatic event, a loss, life transitions, or parenting support, whatever it may be, I recognize that getting here was a journey itself.

And then there is the journey of re-remembering yours and your child’s unique strengths and resources, and the healing and growth that comes from that. The journey is yours and it would be my honour to walk that journey with you.

I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Ontario Association of Social Workers, and am licensed to practice in Ontario. I maintain current research and practice guidelines, and have advanced training in Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Grief & Bereavement Therapy, Trauma-Treatment and Family Therapy. I self-identify as a second generation Canadian Muslim of South Asian heritage.

Feel free to connect with me at ashiya@kairoscounsellingservices.com

Saidy Maurer (She, Her, They)

Clinical Social Worker/Therapist

Hello! I am Saidy Maurer. I started working with children and families as a Child and Youth Worker working in residential treatment, mental health and education. This experience inspired me to continue my learning to be better able to support children, youth and families. I completed my Masters in Social Work at the University of Toronto in 2012. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Ontario Associations of Social Workers.

Sometimes the problems we face can feel impossible to sort through or make sense of. Therapy provides that non-judgmental space needed to explore what is happening. Life does not come with a manual, I can also assure you that parenting does not either. Regardless of how many books are written we are continuously trying to make sense of our experiences and how to make the best out of it. The human process is a complex one and you would be amazed to learn at the knowledge and expertise you already hold.

 My approach is relational and emotion focused. I meet you where you are in the moment, with full trust and belief in your ability to identify your needs. My role is to provide the space that allows for deep self-reflection and collaborate with you on establishing what tools will support your growth and your current needs. 

Please feel welcome to connect with me via email at saidym@kairoscounsellingservices.com