Alicia Panchal, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist
You might be feeling misunderstood and not heard. Yes, even if you come from a very loving family, this can be true. This feeling shows itself in your life in many ways, like loneliness, anxiety, low self-esteem, body image concerns, or depression.
Therapy is a great way to begin exploring where you feel unsure or uncovering the obstacles keeping you from living the life you desire.
Hello, I’m Alicia. And this is a part of my story. Growing up I felt misunderstood like I wasn’t being heard. I have personal experiences with mental health, issues with self-esteem, and challenging family dynamics.
I had no idea how to be aware of my thoughts and feelings, let alone communicate them to someone else. It was confusing, isolating, and aggravating. It definitely affected how I acted towards myself and those around me.
As an adult, I began to see how these past feelings affected my life. It made me think how great it would have been for the younger me to have someone to talk to.
As a therapist, my work with you is grounded in transparency, empathy, and respect. We’ll develop a collaborative relationship to ensure that we work toward your goals.
My South Asian background allows me to easily identify with various populations. I have insight and can validate experiences that may have not been fully understood.
I specialize in eating disorders/body image, anxiety, depression, and stress management. Many times my clients want to improve their self-esteem, and their relationship with their bodies, develop coping skills or understand themselves better.
You will receive a tailored approach to best fit your needs - whether that's sticking to a manual or pulling from various therapeutic modalities.
Some of the modalities I use are cognitive behavioral therapy (for anxiety, depression, and eating disorders), dialectical behavior therapy, emotion-focused family therapy, family-based therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy,
Usually clients express that after working together, they have less anxiety, higher self-esteem, are able to eliminate disordered eating patterns and are better able to cope with life’s stressors.
I believe we all hold the strength to transform ourselves and our lives in a meaningful way. Sometimes, we just need a little support to get there.
I enjoy providing a safe space for you to be vulnerable, learn more about yourself, improve self-worth and feel confident in your ability to manage life's stressors.
Your challenges, experiences, and traits make you who you are. You deserve therapy that is unique to you.
I invite you to click here contact me for a free consultation so we can explore what that looks like for you!
Education and Experience
Master of Social Work, University of Toronto
Ontario College of Social Workers, Registered Social Worker
Extended experience working with individuals of all ages and various mental health concerns
Fun Facts About Me: I'm currently learning how to ride a bike and how to swim, I love watching the Food Network, and enjoy being outside and active. The sunshine is my best friend!