Helping you cultivate emotional insight and meaningful growth with a collaborative, evidence-based approach.

Karen Shay, MA, RP

Registered Psychotherapist

Toronto (In-Person & Online)

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Hi, I'm Karen.
I’m a registered psychotherapist with a background in Art Therapy (M.A., New York University). I work with adults who appear capable on the outside but feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected internally.
Many of my clients are thoughtful and self-aware. They’ve tried to understand themselves, yet something still isn’t shifting. Often they are navigating life transitions: career changes, relationship shifts, loss, evolving identities, or the quiet dissatisfaction that can surface in adulthood.
In therapy, we explore both the underlying patterns shaping your experience and the practical changes that help you move forward. My approach integrates evidence-based strategies with deeper reflection, so insight translates into meaningful action.
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How Therapy with Me Works

Our work is collaborative and engaged.

We look at:

  • patterns of anxiety and avoidance

  • how early roles and expectations shape motivation

  • how neurodivergent minds respond differently to structure and reward

  • how grief and loss — including subtle or developmental grief — influence identity

At the same time, we build practical skills for emotional regulation, decision-making, and sustainable change.

Therapy is not just about coping. It’s about helping your life feel internally directed rather than driven by pressure or fear.

Areas I Commonly Support

  • Anxiety & high-functioning overwhelm
  • ADHD and neurodivergence (diagnosed or suspected)
  • Identity shifts & life transitions
  • Grief & loss
  • Workplace stress & burnout
  • Depression & low motivation
  • Relationship Changes
  • Trauma

Qualifications

Education
New York University
M.A. in Art Therapy, 2015

Professional Registration
College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist #06304

Fee

Cost per Session (60 min)

$160 for new clients (HST included)

Covered by most extended benefits.

Get in Touch / Request a Consultation

Office Location

1 Dundas St W.

Suite 2525
Toronto, ON M5G 2L5

Hours
Monday - Friday
11am - 8pm

Contacts
karen.d.shay@gmail.com