About Saranjit Dhaliwal

Hi there, I’m Saranjit (Sara) Dhaliwal, a Student Therapist at Thrive Counselling. I have satisfied degree requirements for a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and will graduate in June 2023.  I also hold and a Bachelor of Recreation Management and Community Development from the University of Manitoba.  I am a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).

I have experience working with adolescents and adults within a person-centered approach lens to address daily life and emotional difficulties. However, I also like integrating Mindfulness, Interpersonal, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) models when providing tools and alternative perspectives. I have been honored to collaborate with clients who manage issues related to anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), grief, self-esteem, self-identity, life transitions, school issues, and relationship difficulties. I am fluent in English and Punjabi, which opens doors and breaks barriers for individuals who have trouble speaking English. 

Authentic connection with others is one of the most powerful tools in our healing journeys. Therefore, I aim to provide a nonjudgmental environment for my clients to reflect, explore, and be heard. My style is to meet individuals in the middle of their healing journey and help create a safe environment by setting intentions in how we attend to your problems and help you reach your goals. When possible and appropriate, I incorporate Recreation Therapy to create a fun atmosphere within the session. You may ask what Recreation Therapy is. Recreation Therapy is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with psychological needs. It helps clients avoid negative choices by exploring better ways to use their time, improving social skills, and fostering positive experiences. 

You’ll see me at the airport catching flights in my free time because I love to travel and learn about new cultures. You’ll see me playing volleyball on the beach or the court. I also like to spend time with family and friends while engaging in self-care activities.

If we can work together, it would be an honor to get to know you, be part of your journey, and help you sort through your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.