Men’s Counselling in Kitchener-Waterloo

You Don’t Have to Carry the Weight Alone

The world tells you to keep it together. Here you have permission to let it go. I offer a private and judgment-free space for men to find relief.

You might be wondering if you should even be here.

For many men, the idea of therapy feels uncomfortable.

You may have been taught that emotions are a distraction. You might worry that asking for help means you have failed as a provider or a protector. You might fear that if you let your guard down, you will be seen as "weak."

So you keep pushing. You bury the stress. You tell yourself you are fine.

But masking your reality is exhausting.

You might feel a constant tightness in your chest. You might feel disconnected from the people you love. You might feel like you are just going through the motions of a life you worked hard to build.

At Intentional Living Psychotherapy, I want you to know that needing support does not make you less of a man. It just makes you human.

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How Distress Shows Up in Men

Men are often socialized to hide their pain. This means anxiety or depression rarely looks like sadness. It often looks like stress, frustration, or withdrawal.

Irritability & Anger

You find yourself snapping at your partner or kids over small things. You feel sudden flashes of frustration that seem to come out of nowhere. This is often how anxiety shows up when it has nowhere else to go.
Shutting Down

When things get emotional you go numb. You retreat into your phone, video games, or work. Your partner might say you are "emotionally unavailable" or "hard to reach."
Physical Burnout

You feel physically exhausted but your mind will not turn off. You might deal with insomnia, muscle tension, or unexplained aches and pains.
Overworking

Work is the one place where you feel in control. You pour all your energy into your career to avoid dealing with the quiet emptiness you feel when you stop
The "Imposter" Feeling

On the outside you look successful. On the inside you feel like you are just winging it. You worry that one wrong move will let everyone down.

A Practical Approach to Men’s Health

Therapy is a resource to help you navigate life with more clarity and control. I use evidence-based strategies to help you understand your mind and regain your balance.

We focus on the "how." I provide actionable techniques to help you understand your stress response and regulate your nervous system. This gives you the ability to handle high-pressure situations with a clear and calm mind, rather than feeling like you are constantly putting out fires.
You likely have a part of you that works very hard to keep you safe, productive, and successful. We work to understand this "Protector" part and the heavy burdens it carries. This helps you lead your life with more flexibility without losing your drive or ambition.
I deeply respect the unique pressures placed on men in many cultures. Whether you are the eldest son, the sole provider, or the pillar of your community, we honor those responsibilities. We explore how to navigate these cultural expectations in a way that protects your own well-being while still honoring your heritage.
We work on translating your internal experience into clear language. This builds your emotional intelligence and helps you communicate exactly what you need to your partner or family. The result is often fewer arguments and a deeper, more secure connection with the people you care about.

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

I know that clicking the button to book a session feels risky. You might worry about being judged or misunderstood.

As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I specialize in working with men who are tired of white-knuckling it through life. My practice is a sanctuary where you can drop the performance.

No Judgment: You can talk about your anger, your fears, and your mistakes. I am here to listen and understand. I am not here to critique you.
Culturally Affirming: I understand the unspoken rules about masculinity in different cultures. You do not have to explain why it is hard to be vulnerable.
Direct & Warm: I offer a balance of compassionate listening and honest feedback. We will get to the heart of the matter.

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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.