You look like you have it all together.

Anxiety has a way of tricking us into thinking we are the only ones struggling. You might look around and wonder, "How does everyone else have this figured out?" Meanwhile, your mind is racing a mile a minute, replay loops of yesterday’s conversations are keeping you up at night, and you feel a constant, low-grade hum of dread in your chest.

If you are a high-achiever, a parent, or someone who grew up in a household where "emotions" weren't discussed, you likely learned to mask your anxiety very well. You show up. You get the job done. You are the "strong one."

But living in survival mode is exhausting.

At Intentional Living Psychotherapy, I offer a space where you don’t have to perform. Whether you are navigating the pressure of cultural expectations, the stress of a life transition, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the world, I am here to help you slow down, understand your nervous system, and reclaim your peace.

Is This What Anxiety Feels Like for You?

Anxiety isn’t just "worrying too much." It is a whole-body experience that can disconnect you from the present moment. Clients who come to see me often describe it like this:

The "On" Switch is Stuck: No matter how tired you are, you can’t seem to relax. Your body feels tense, your jaw is clenched, and you feel a restless urge to keep moving or fixing things.
The Perfectionism Trap: You feel an immense pressure to get everything right. The fear of making a mistake or disappointing your family (or community) feels paralyzing.
Physical Exhaustion: You might experience tension headaches, a racing heart, shallow breathing, or chronic fatigue—your body’s way of saying it has been running on adrenaline for too long.
Overthinking Everything: You replay social interactions, obsess over the future, or create worst-case scenarios in your head, trying to "prepare" for every possible outcome.
Emotional Numbness: Sometimes, anxiety doesn't feel like fear; it feels like shutting down. You might feel disconnected from your partner, your hobbies, or even your own joy.

If any of this resonates, I want you to know: You are not broken. Your body is trying to protect you, and together, we can teach it that it’s safe to rest.

Symptoms of high-functioning anxiety including overthinking and physical tension.

How We Heal Anxiety Together

I don’t believe in "fixing" you, because you aren't a problem to be solved. Instead, I use a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to help you understand why your anxiety is showing up and give you the tools to work with it, not against it.

Anxiety often has roots in our past. Perhaps you grew up in a home where you had to be the peacemaker, or maybe you carry the unspoken weight of intergenerational expectations as a child of immigrants. We will explore your history with curiosity, not judgment. By connecting the dots between your past experiences and your current triggers, we can release the old patterns that are no longer serving you.
It might sound strange, but your anxiety is trying to help you. In IFS, we view anxiety not as an enemy, but as a "protector" part of you that is working overdrive to prevent you from getting hurt, judged, or rejected. Instead of fighting these feelings, we will get to know them. When we listen to these protective parts, they often soften, allowing your true, calm self to lead the way.
Anxiety loves isolation. It tells us we are a burden or that we need to handle everything alone. Using an attachment-based lens, we look at how anxiety shows up in your relationships. By learning how to lean on others and build secure connections, we can actually lower your physiological stress response. You don’t have to do this alone.

Therapy That Fits Your Life

I know that reaching out is the hardest step. I strive to make the process as warm and accessible as possible.

In-Person in Kitchener-Waterloo:

For those who crave a physical safe space, my office is located at 900 Guelph Street. It’s a quiet, welcoming environment where you can leave the world at the door.
Online Therapy Across Ontario:

If you have a busy schedule or feel safer in your own home, I offer secure video sessions. This is a great option for clients in Toronto, Brampton, or surrounding areas.
Culturally Inclusive:

You shouldn't have to explain your culture to your therapist. I hold space for the nuances of your identity, faith, and family dynamics, ensuring you feel seen in your wholeness.

Meet Ruba

Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. You need someone who understands not just the clinical side of anxiety, but the human side of trying to balance it all.

As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I founded Intentional Living Psychotherapy to create a space where you don't have to explain your cultural context or apologize for your feelings.

Here is what you can expect when we work together:

A Space Where You Don't Have to Perform: I offer warm, non-judgmental support where you can finally take off the "strong one" mask and just be yourself.
Culturally Affirming Care: I specialize in supporting children of immigrants and high achievers. I understand the nuances of family pressure and identity.
Evidence-Based Tools: We won't just talk. I use proven methods like IFS and Trauma-Informed care to help you find real relief.
Safety & Connection: A secure space to explore your emotions, relationships, and identity at your own pace.

I understand that taking the first step can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone.

A young woman with long dark hair and pink highlights, smiling outdoors with green trees in the background.

How Therapy Works

1. Understanding Your Story

In our first session, I’ll learn about your experiences, challenges, and goals at a pace that feels comfortable.
2. Creating a Personalized Plan

Together, we’ll build a personalized plan with strategies to help you heal, grow, and navigate life’s challenges
3. Doing the Work

Through reflection and new skills, you’ll gain insight, break patterns, and make meaningful changes in your life.
4. Tracking Progress

We’ll adjust as needed, celebrate growth, and ensure therapy continues to meet your evolving needs.
5. Moving Forward

When you’re ready, we’ll explore what’s next, whether that’s reducing sessions, setting new goals, or confidently moving on.

Let’s Start the Conversation

You deserve a life that is driven by intention, not fear. If you are ready to stop just "coping" and start truly living, I invite you to connect with me.

There is no pressure to commit right away. Let’s start with a free consultation to see if we feel like a good team.

Book a free 30 minute video consultation