Luisa is currently accepting new clients

Luisa Balsamo (she/her)
MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker
Independent Contractor

Name works with:
Individuals (18 years+)
Couples (18 years+)
Families (18 years+)

(905) 527 - 6337
luisa.balsamo@everwellcounselling.ca

Luisa Balsamo

Registered Social Worker

Navigating the challenges in life can be difficult on your own. Asking for help can be tricky but a crucial step in your life. Congratulations on your first big step!

Through the therapy process, you will gain skills and strategies to change those challenges into growth. My goal in therapy is to provide you with a safe and supportive space to share all your thoughts and feelings. My clinical focus is on improving your psychological well-being through different therapeutic modalities.

I am a Registered Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups across the spectrum of mental health and life stressors.

Approaches: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focussed Therapy (EFT), Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy.

Q & A with Luisa

What made you decide to choose your role as a therapist?

“At a young age, when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up I always responded "child psychologist". To this day, I don't know how I knew that as I never received support from a health care professional. I believe I knew that talking to someone you could trust could make the world of a difference. In my early teens, I was the one often lending an ear to friends and helping them problem solve. The experience of suddenly losing my father in my 20s really gave me the direction I needed to pursue social work. Being a social worker during suffering postpartum I understood getting support was crucial. Working in healthcare, I was thrown into an oncology social work position over 15 years ago and this has been the most fulfilling work.”

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about mental health?

“The biggest misconception about mental health is that you should NOT talk about it. There continues to be stigma and those suffering from mental health illnesses often feel isolated and alone. Having support, professional and/or social, can make the difference in the individual's outcomes.”

What do you want clients to know about working with you?

“I want clients to know that we will work together to find solutions.”

What do you like most about the work that you do?

“My personal satisfaction is when working beside clients to successfully improve their lives and overcome challenges.”

What do you value most in a client?

“What I value most in a client is their willingness to engage in the process whether that means being open, showing up consistently, or simply being honest about where they are emotionally. I deeply respect clients’ resilience and their courage in seeking support. I also value when clients take an active role in shaping their goals and are open to collaboration, even when the work is difficult. Ultimately, I see the relationship as a partnership, and I value the trust clients place in me to support them on their journey.”

What is your biggest achievement to date?

“My biggest achievement is raising two amazing young adults who inspire me everyday.”

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?

Areas of Practice

• Oncology and Chronic Illness

• Chronic Pain

• Grief and Loss

• Relationship/Marital Issues

• Parenting

• Sexual Health

• Anxiety and Depression

• Pregnancy and Postpartum

• Men’s Issues

Education & Memberships

• Masters of Social Work, York University

• Bachelor of Social Work, York University

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, York University

• Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) Registered Social Worker

Average Cost 

• $160 / 50 minute Individual session

• $180 / 50 minute Couples session

• $275 / 90 minute Family session

• Extended sessions available

• Check with your insurance provider for coverage opportunities

What personal qualities are important for the job that you do?

Open-minded
Excellent listener
Compassionate
Non-judgemental
Trustworthy

Just for fun

What’s your favourite thing to do in your off time?

“Spend time with my family, exercise, travel and entertain.”

What is your favourite place to find inspiration?

“Around the dinner table with my family.”

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“You can't change the world overnight but you can help change the person in front of you”