On maternity leave. I am not booking sessions until I return in January 2027. You are welcome to send me a message in the meantime.

Online sessions across Ontario

Aya El Balaa, Registered Psychotherapist

About Me

A little about my journey, the communities I have worked with, and the education and training behind my work.

Aya El Balaa at her desk resting her hands on a stack of psychology and therapy books, beside a plant and a mug
A leafy monstera plant in a grey pot

My journey

A similar space of compassion for others

We all have very unique journeys in reaching therapy, myself included. I have been lucky to come across several therapists and professors who have helped me along my journey and allowed me to realize that I can provide a similar space of compassion for others.

I have been practising as a Registered Psychotherapist for over 6 years (CRPO Registrant #10129).

Working with multiple presentations

Over the years, I have grown my knowledge and expertise supporting clients with a wide range of concerns, so our work can meet you where you are.

Previous experience in community settings

I am grateful for the experience I have had working in community counselling settings. It allowed me to provide a voice and advocate for newcomers, refugees and others in need.

Knowledge of community programs and services

This work taught me about the many programs, services and resources available in Ottawa, and I can share those that may be helpful for you.

Credentials

Education

  1. 2020 – Present Counselling and Psychotherapy Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO #10129)
  2. 2019 – 2021 Master of Arts in Counselling and Spirituality Saint Paul University
  3. 2017 – 2019 Bachelor of Psychology Carleton University
  4. 2013 – 2017 Honours Bachelor Degree in Health Sciences with a Minor in Psychology University of Ottawa
Dried eucalyptus in a glass vase

Continuing education

Therapy Training Highlights

I also take part in regular supervision and peer consultation, so my work stays current and grounded in good practice.

2021

  • Clinical Practice in Motivational Interviewing, CMHASeptember 2021

2022

  • Refugees and Trauma: Understanding and Supporting Resilience Training by CTRIMarch 2022

  • Advancing Single Session Therapy by Scott CooperMay 2022

2023

  • Sanyas Indigenous Cultural Safety TrainingMarch 2023

  • Exploring Gender-Based Violence through Diverse Therapeutic PerspectivesNovember 2023

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy Training, ExternshipDecember 2023

2024

  • Clinical Applications of Internal Family Systems TherapyMarch 2024

  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Level 1March 2024

  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Level 2April 2024

2025

  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSDJanuary 2025

Workshops

  • Workshops on Techniques for Brief Therapy by Caroline ElsonBasics of SFT, and Narrative therapy

Taking the next step

Ready when you are.

Send me a message and we can set up a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.

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