Compassionate and Approachable Psychotherapy in Guelph & Online
Do you want to feel more fulfilled and present in your life and relationships? Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Life is tragic and deeply beautiful and our relationships shape, but do not define us. At Alia Ziesman Counselling, I am passionate about helping you to better understand your story. When you understand what has happened to you, your lived experience, you can begin to write new chapters for your future. Having experienced profound and ongoing grief in my own life, I will meet you where you are, at your own pace. I'm invested in your outcomes and we can develop meaningful strategies that work. Reach out for a free 15-minute phone consult.
Discover Personalized Support
Tailored Therapy Sessions
Safe and Comfortable Environment
Flexible Scheduling Options
My Approach
I am passionate about making therapy accessible, approachable, comfortable and enjoyable. With me, you will not feel judged and trust is paramount. My approach is simple: I ask that you show up. Being here is enough.
My parents worked hard, sacrificed and did their best. Their parents (my grandparents) were immigrants who grew up with poverty and abuse and were unable to be emotionally available to their children. Intergenerational trauma has ripple effects: my parents were not taught how to communicate effectively and for me, this meant not feeling heard. (My mom did it all and never got a break, which doesn't leave much time for listening). What I learned from my childhood is this: we can turn deprivation and hardship into strength and wisdom. My grandmother and hero, Sakunat Ali, was the most beautiful human being; though she was not allowed to attend school or learn to read or write due to her religious upbringing, her wit, intellect and character was unparalleled. She made me the person I am today, I am here because of her.
As I became older and found my voice, I realized a few things: I'm a natural listener, I enjoy making others feel heard and I can help others to find their voice. When my kids were very young, I decided to combine these values with my passion for social justice and left my decade-long career in the non-profit sector to become a psychotherapist. My personal experience with significant grief and loss allows me to bring depth to my work. Over time, clients can begin to deepen their understanding of self, find their voice and show up differently in their relationships.
Modalities:
I use a client-centered approach with evidence-based, integrative approaches to foster healing and resilience in the long run. Some of these modalities include narrative therapy, attachment theory, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I tailor our sessions to your unique needs and I'm invested in your outcomes. As a lifelong learner, I've completed more than 40 trainings and two master's degrees.
Specialties
I bring an attachment perspective to all of my work and specialize in couples counselling, grief and loss (including pet loss), parenting, stress, cultural diversity, perinatal, women's health, men's health, identity and anxiety disorders. I'm trained in couples therapy including The Gottman Method Level Two & Emotionally Focused Therapy. My goal is to help you reach your goals. Click 'Learn More' for details.
