Ayesha Notiar
M.A. (Psychotherapy), M.A. (Education), CCC
Canadian Certified Counsellor & Psychotherapist | Edmonton, Alberta
About Me
I am an EMDR-certified therapist offering integrative psychotherapy grounded in the Feel · Heal · Become framework—a holistic, whole-person approach that attends to emotional, cognitive, relational, and spiritual dimensions of care. I support teens, adults, and couples in building increasing capacity for regulation, stabilization, and integration, allowing therapy to progress at a pace guided by safety and client needs. My work is grounded in a collaborative, evidence-informed approach that supports individuals in navigating mental health stressors and building greater capacity for regulation, stability, and overall well-being.
Born in Pakistan, raised in New York, and now calling Edmonton - the traditional lands of the nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Dene, and Nakota Sioux—my home, I understand what it means to navigate multiple worlds and identities. What once felt like fragmentation has become my greatest teacher: a reminder that healing often means gathering the pieces of who we are and coming home to ourselves.
Healing isn’t a straight line—it’s a return, again and again, to yourself. I’m here to walk beside you on this journey, with curiosity, warmth, and respect for your pace and process.
My Approach
I believe healing begins with being seen, heard, and understood. You are more than your symptoms, you are a whole person with inner wisdom, resilience, and the capacity to grow. My work provides a structured, client-centred therapeutic environment focused on exploring presenting concerns and strengthening capacity for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and psychological integration.
At the heart of my work is a simple truth: self-expression and genuine connection are inalienable rights. You deserve spaces where your feelings can be voiced, your story can be honoured, and your identity can unfold without fear or pressure. Therapy becomes the place where your inner world is welcomed exactly as it is — and where you begin to reconnect with the parts of yourself that have long needed safety and understanding.
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Your lived experience, identity, and inner wisdom guide the direction of our work. You are the expert of your own life, and therapy honours that truth.
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Your body carries stories and wisdom that your mind may not yet have words for. We gently attune to physical sensations and somatic experiences to support deeper healing.
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Your spiritual beliefs, cultural traditions, or intuitive ways of knowing can be woven into therapy in a way that feels grounding, respectful, and true to you.
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Safety, pacing, and consent guide every step. Healing is never rushed; it unfolds with care for your nervous system’s capacity.
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Your story is welcome here — all identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences. You deserve a space free from judgment, shame, or pressure.
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We acknowledge how systems of oppression shape lived experiences and work together toward reclaiming agency, voice, and self-worth.
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We walk together. You bring your truth; we bring therapeutic knowledge; and together we co-create a path that aligns with what you need most.
Guiding Principles
These principles shape how we work together and help create a therapeutic relationship rooted in respect, safety, and personal alignment:
My Experience & Education
I hold a Master of Arts in Psychotherapy and a Master of Arts in Education, and I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I am also certified in EMDR. My ongoing professional development focuses on approaches that are culturally responsive, spiritually integrated, and grounded in current research, ensuring that my practice reflects both clinical excellence and a compassionate, attuned standard of care.
Get Started
It’s normal to feel uncertain about starting therapy. Whether you’re navigating change, seeking clarity, or wanting to understand yourself more deeply, we can explore those goals together. If you’re unsure, a consultation is simply a chance to connect, ask questions, and see whether this support feels right for you.
