• Dana Holkestad, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

    Welcome! My name is Dana (she/her) 

    It’s unfortunately common for experiences like anxiety, low mood, or overthinking to creep in, leaving you overwhelmed and stuck. You might find yourself without the words to describe what’s happening, which can quickly lead to self-criticism, turning inward, and even pulling away from the people and supports you need most. These responses are completely understandable, yet they often leave us feeling more isolated and unsure of what to do next.

    The truth is—you’re not meant to do this alone. Humans are wired for connection. Without a safe place to express yourself and sort through what’s happening, it can feel impossible to move forward. But with a listening ear, a supportive space, and some new tools and perspectives, it becomes easier to bring curiosity to your experience and begin shifting unhelpful patterns.

    As therapy unfolds, many people notice a softening: more compassion toward themselves, relief in feeling validated, and a deeper understanding of what they’re going through. This self-understanding lays the groundwork for making choices that feel more empowering—and perhaps most importantly, showing up differently in daily life and relationships, often with a greater sense of calm and connection.

    Everyone needs help and support. Everyone deserves to feel seen and connected. And that includes you.

    If this feels familiar, reaching out could be the first step toward relief and connection. 

    Book Now

    Dana is accepting clients for online and in-person sessions at 130 Spadina Avenue.

    I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University (Vancouver, BC) and a BA degree from Vancouver Island University. I have been practicing since 2022 with individuals and couples and I am continuously grateful to witness the therapeutic journeys of those I work with.

    I’ve always felt called to counselling work and my hope is to offer the safety and connection necessary for you to explore any present challenges so that you can find new ways of being in the world and in your relationships. I believe that self-understanding and healthy ways of emotional processing can increase harmony and balance in our lives and that new perspectives and tools can help you grow and achieve your personal goals.

    I use an attachment-based approach to help recognize patterns in the way you think and feel about yourself and relate to others, and I trust in the therapeutic process to help you uncover what matters most to you so you can create the change you desire. I believe that you are the expert on your own experience, and I am honored to sit with you, offering coping strategies and exercises that can facilitate the process of healing.

    Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.

     

    — Tori Amos


    My Practice and Credentials

    Areas of Expertise

    Complex trauma

    Attachment Issues

    BPD traits

    Dissociation

    OCD traits

    Anxiety and Depression

    Trauma

    Anger Issues

    Grief

    Life Transitions

    Codependency

    Professional Associations

    College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

    Ready to get started? Reach out to us today!

    Call, text, or email using the information/form below. Our administrative team will answer any questions you might have and learn how we can help you. If you’re interested in working with me, please let them know at this time.

    Prefer to book on your own? Don’t want to wait for the office to open? Click the link below to schedule a consultation.

    You will then be connected with me for a free 15-minute consultation.

    This is a chance for us to meet, for you to ask me any questions, and for you to tell you a bit about my approach so that you can determine if I’m the right fit for you.

    Schedule your first therapy appointment and begin your healing journey!

    By submitting this form via this web portal, you acknowledge and accept the risks of communicating your health information via this unencrypted email and electronic messaging and wish to continue despite those risks. By clicking "Yes, I want to submit this form" you agree to hold Brighter Vision harmless for unauthorized use, disclosure, or access of your protected health information sent via this electronic means.

    Trauma, Sex, and Couples Therapy in Toronto
    Offered Virtually or In-Person at Spadina and Queen