Michelle-Shayne MatinPsychotherapy

About me

I'm here to listen, not to judge

Michelle-Shayne Matin, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), photographed on a Toronto street

With over 25 years of experience working with students, families, educators, and diverse communities, my path into psychotherapy has been shaped by a lifelong commitment to helping people grow, heal, and move forward.

I began my career as a behaviourist with the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services, where I spent over a decade supporting individuals with diverse needs, including those with ASD, ADHD, ODD, and behavioural and emotional challenges. This foundation in Applied Behaviour Analysis, combined with years of leadership in education, has given me a deep understanding of how personal, academic, relational, and professional struggles can affect every part of a person's life.

Now, as a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I believe therapy begins with you. My role is to work alongside you collaboratively, helping you rebuild confidence, develop practical coping strategies, and move toward the places you are hoping to reach.

I provide therapy for children, youth, educators, professionals, artists, and adults navigating challenges related to school, work, relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, self-esteem, burnout, and personal growth. These challenges can show up in many ways, including avoidance, emotional withdrawal, behavioural changes, low motivation, relationship conflict, or decreased performance at school or work.

Central to my therapeutic approach is the development of a safe, trusting, and supportive relationship where clients feel able to express their thoughts and emotions openly. I draw from a multidisciplinary background in behaviour, education, art, mindfulness-based practices, cognitive-behavioural strategies, and solution-focused therapy. This allows me to tailor each session to the client's unique story, strengths, needs, and goals.

My approach is collaborative, practical, creative, and grounded. Together, we work to build insight, strengthen emotional resilience, reduce stress, improve coping, and support meaningful personal growth.

A pair of hands cupped around soil with a young seedling growing from it

My philosophy

I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Each person who walks through my door brings a unique story, and therapy should honour that. My integrative practice means I draw from several therapeutic models — mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioural, and solution-focused — to create a way of working that feels right for you.

Above all, I value trust, transparency, and collaboration. You are the expert on your own life; my role is to help you access that expertise.

Education & memberships

  • Master of Arts, Counselling Psychology

    2026

  • Bachelor of Education

    Faculty of Education, York University, Toronto / 2000

  • Bachelor of Arts, Hons.

    York University, Ontario / 1993

  • Ontario College of Teachers

    Membership 435493 / 2000

  • Ontario Principal's Council

    Member

  • Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

    2015

  • Indigenous Educator Certification

    2022

  • Holocaust Educator Certification

    2015

  • Genocide Education Certification

    2018

Reach out, any time, to begin

I'm here to listen and support you on your journey. The first conversation is free, and there is no obligation to continue.