Vittoria DeSimone-Maida

Certified Canadian Counsellor and Registered Psychotherapist

I have been in the social service field for over 27 years and have held many roles. I have the education, work, and life experience to guide you through troublesome times.

Presently, my area of focus is anxiety disorders and phobias. Using evidence-based strategies like CBT, I will help you deal with anxiety and confront your fears. We can also explore using compassionate/ mindfulness strategies, meditation, journaling and yoga poses too.

My approach is client centred, warm, non judgemental and holistic. I feel it is important to create a safe space for all individuals. I think addressing the whole individual (mind, body, and soul) is imperative to healing. For those who prefer, I am willing to discuss existential questions like “Who am I?,  What is my life’s purpose?, What is my mission in life?”  If you choose, we can explore your connection with a Higher Power (God, Mother Earth, The Universe, Spirit).

Life is an expedition which involves many joys and tribulations.  It is through these difficult times that reaching out for help is key to overcoming the challenges you are experiencing.  I am here to walk with you along your path of life.

As Ram Dass said “We are all just walking each other home.”

Connect with me and let’s take some time to journey together.

Q & A with Vittoria

What made you decide to choose your current profession?

“ I love to help others to heal.”

What do you like most about what you do?

“I love the soul connections it provides each and every day.”

What do you want your clients to know about you and what it will be like working with you?

“ I believe that we have crossed paths for a reason along this journey of life. Like Ram Dass states: ‘ We are all walking each other home’. I am here to learn from you as you are here to learn with me.”

What’s the best piece of advice that you have ever received?

“It is all meant to be, trust.”

What do you value most in a client?

“Their strength and courage to come and be vulnerable with me. The fact that they choose me to help them through their struggle is a privilege and a gift.”

What would you like a client to say about you?

“ I would like my clients to say that they felt heard and respected. I would like to hear that I made a difference in their life.”

What does ‘wellness’ mean to you?

“ Wellness involves an holistic approach nourishing the mind, body and spirit. It is finding a way to maintain a state of balance in all of these facets of our life. What we do to establishing this equilibrium is unique for every individual.”

What does ‘integrated health’ mean to you?

“Integrated health means incorporating different facets of health areas under one umbrella. It involves a holistic approach that involves having services available for individuals like massage, chiropractic, naturopathic, counselling, yoga, reiki etc.”

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

“The biggest misconceptions is that it does not exist. There are those that believe that it is all fabricated and untrue. Some believe that those who are mentally struggling are making it up and are lazy.”

What’s the one piece of advice that you would give to others about life?

“Life is a journey. Stay connected. Stay awake. Enjoy the good and the bad. All experiences serve a purpose.”

Approach

• Evidence-based strategies

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Mindfulness

• Breathing, Meditation and Yoga

• Spiritual

Education / Accomplishments /Awards

• B.A. Sc. Bachelor of Applied Science Specializing in Family and Social Relations

• M.A. Masters of Arts in Theology Specializing in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy

Professional Memberships

• Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC)

• Member of the Canadian Counselling Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)

Average Cost 

• $140 + HST per hour

• Check with your insurance provider for coverage opportunities

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

Perseverance
Patience
Thirst for knowledge
Empathy
Courage
Wisdom

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?

Just for fun

What’s something that people would be surprised to learn about you?

“ I wish I was a dancer.”

What was your favourite toy as a kid?

“Baby Alive, Ms.Beasley and Barbie Dolls.”

Do you have any pets?

“ Two fluffy Jack Russell Poodles, Sophie and Turk.”

Top 3 things you heart about Hamilton

“ Waterfalls/trails; art, music and drama; and yummy places to eat good food.”