On Psych: Presented by the Ontario Psychological Association

S5E1: Covid and the Brain

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Dr. Jonathan Douglas and Dr. David Joffe explore the profound impacts of COVID-19 on brain health, particularly focusing on long COVID and its associated cognitive impairments. They discuss the intersection of sleep medicine and neurocognition, highlighting the emergence of REM behavior disorder in younger populations. The conversation delves into the implications for driving safety, the psychological effects of PTSD, and the urgent need for education and awareness in the medical community regarding long COVID. They also consider the potential future implications of COVID on brain health and the role of AI in healthcare. In this conversation, David Joffe and Dr. Jonathan Douglas discuss the multifaceted impact of COVID-19 on public health, society, and individual mindsets. They explore the challenges of changing perceptions around health and vaccination, the role of government in public health, and the ongoing crisis of long COVID. The discussion also delves into the evolution of COVID variants, the importance of air quality, and the future of public health in a political context. They highlight the collaborative efforts of the World Health Network in addressing these issues and the need for a compassionate approach to public health education.

David Joffe, PhD FRACP

Physician

Bio

Research Interests and Collaborations:
● Sleep behaviour and impact on driving ability
● The genesis of respiratory failure in Motor Neuron Disease
● The Pathophysiology of sleep in Parkinson’s Disease
● PTSD and effects on sleepiness, Restless Legs Syndrome and REM Behaviour Disorder
● The role of GERD in Respiratory Disease
● Long Covid and Post Acute Sequelae of Covid-19
● Spinal Cord Injury and Sleep Disordered Breathing

World Health Network Long Covid Expert Advisory Group

Vice-Chair

https://whn.global/expert/david-joffe-phd/

Twitter @DavidJoffe64

S4E10: Innovation in Eating Disorders

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0500

Tune in to hear Dr. Robbie Campbell and Sara Bradbury share about Ontario’s newest Eating Disorders clinic: The Harbour.

Dr. Campbell is a dedicated psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience with eating disorder patients. He is the founder and president for the Eating Disorders Foundation of Canada. He is Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychiatry at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry for Western University, Consultant Psychiatrist at Fowler Kennedy Clinic, Fanshawe College, St. Joseph’s Family Medical Centre, and St. Joseph’s Health Care. Dr Campbell is also the visionary behind The Harbour pilot project. He is dedicated to providing more efficient care and early intervention to people with eating disorders. This project is the first of its kind in Canada.

Sara Bradbury: Registered nurse since 2013, specializing in mental health. Specialized further into eating disorders in 2015. Sara is interested in providing individualized care to the eating disorder population. Too much care in the healthcare system is generalized and this makes treatment minimally effective. Sara graduated from Western university in 2013 and began working at Grand River Hospital in their Specialized Mental Health Unit. Since then she has also worked at OTMH and Credit Valley Hospital.

Learn more about The Harbour below:

Instagram

Website

S4E9: Regulation Wars 2: The Data Strikes Back

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Jonathan A. Weiss, Ph.D., C.Psych. is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at York University, where he holds the York Research Chair in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He leads research focused on mental health in autistic individuals and those with intellectual disabilities across the lifespan. Dr. Weiss is a Clinical Psychologist whose work explores access to care, service experiences, and family wellness. His research includes evaluating psychosocial interventions and the impact of programs like Special Olympics on psychological well-being.

Connect with Jonathan here

S4E8: Ontario Psychology in Crisis with Dr. Laura Nichols and Dr. Marlene Taube-Schiff

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0400

Laura Nichols, PhD is a clinical psychologist and a current board member and President of the Ontario Psychological Association. She is the founder and director of the Centre for Change in Ottawa, a large clinic offering evidenced based mental health assessment and treatment for adults in Ottawa and across Ontario. Dr. Nichols serves as a clinical supervisor affiliated with the University of Ottawa and offers clinical training rotations in general mental health and trauma streams for psychology doctoral students and residents. Dr. Nichols has focused her clinic work on the assessment and treatment of occupational stress injuries including PTSD with first responders and the Canadian Armed Forces. She also works with individuals with mood and anxiety disorders as well as occupational stress. Dr. Nichols is a member of several national and international professional associations and has presented her research findings at many of these conference proceedings. She has published her research findings in tier 1 peer reviewed publications. She has also held adjust professor positions at several universities on the east coast and in Ottawa. She has served as an ad-hoc reviewer for the Institute of Mental Health Research and for the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

Connect with Laura through the following platforms: Facebook, Instagram

Dr. Taube-Schiff has been a Registered Psychologist for almost 20 years and she has worked in a variety of academic institutions throughout Ontario. Currently, she is the Director and Founder of Forward Thinking Psychological Services, a multidisciplinary practice that delivers evidence-based assessment and treatment to adolescents and adults with symptoms of OCD and OCD related disorders as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism and trauma. She is one of the founding professionals of the Sunnybrook Intensive Services Program for OCD and is still involved in research initiatives for the program. She has over 25 scientific publications, including book chapters, and has presented numerous workshops and symposiums both nationally and internationally. She is an Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto and is a member of the previous Anxiety Canada Scientific Advisory Committee. She also holds Adjunct Faculty positions at York University and, previously, at Toronto Metropolitan University. Dr. Taube-Schiff is also engaged in a variety of teaching opportunities for healthcare professionals and trainees across Canada. Dr. Taube-Schiff is currently the Past President of the Ontario Psychological Association and the President-Elect for the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behaviour Therapies.

Connect with Dr. Taube-Schiff on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn or head to her website.

S4E7: The Wrongful Conviction of Oscar Pistorius with Dr. Brent Willock

Wed, 21 May 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Dr. Brent Willock earned his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan. After serving on staff for several years in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Medical Center, he relocated to Toronto, becoming Chief Psychologist at a clinical/teaching facility associated with the University of Toronto (C.M. Hincks Treatment Centre, now part of the Hospital for Sick Children). He was Adjunct Faculty, York University, and Associate Faculty Member, School of Graduate Studies, University of Toronto.

He is Past President of the Toronto Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis and served on the Board of the Canadian Institute for Child & Adolescent Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. He is a faculty member in the Postgraduate Program in Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy at Adelphi University’s Derner School of Psychology, Writing Mentor for the Washington Psychoanalytic Foundation’s New Directions in Psychoanalytic Thinking Program, Associate Editor for Psychoanalytic Dialogues, Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Infant, Child, and Adolescent Psychotherapy, and has contributed many articles and book chapters. He is author of Comparative-Integrative Psychoanalysis, and The Wrongful Conviction of Oscar Pistorius, and edited several books that received Gradiva and Goethe Awards.

His many contributions have been honored by the Ontario Psychological Association, the American Psychological Association, the Canadian Psychological Association, the International Federation for Psychoanalytic Education, the University of Chicago, the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis, and the National Association for the Advancement of Psychoanalysis. Last year, an article he wrote ("On Dreaming, Parasomnia, Dream Enactment, and Murder") for a journal of the American Psychological Association received the Gradiva Award for best article of the year.

S4E6: The Psychological Implications of Menopause with Dr. Sandra Belfry

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Dr. Sandra Belfry is a Clinical Neuropsychologist and Psychologist with 30 years of experience providing psychological assessment and treatment for women and seniors, particularly during life transitions and health challenges. She focuses on improving Quality of Life, an approach she established early in her career by creating programs for seniors with mental health and neurodegenerative conditions residing in long-term care.

At Lifespan Psychology & Neuropsychology Services, Dr. Belfry leads the Healthy Aging & Dementia Clinic, where she supports seniors, couples, and families affected by dementias and related conditions. She also created a Women's Menopause & Brain Health Clinic to assist women navigating perimenopause and menopause symptoms and chronic health conditions; offering assessment, treatment, psycho-education, and cognitive compensatory strategies. She conducts psycho-educational talks and guest lectures in workplaces, communities, healthcare facilities, and universities along with professional consulting services.

Her qualifications include training in evidence-based therapies like IPT, CBT and more, as well as certification in Goal Management Training for cognitive rehabilitation. Dr. Belfry is launching a Menopause Psycho-educational Support group, MenoLink, to help women connect and better cope with mental health and cognitive symptoms during menopause. She advocates for a biopsychosocial approach to promote lifelong BRAIN HEALTH and to reduce dementia risk. Dr. Belfry volunteers as a board director for the Alzheimer Society BHNHH, EAPO, & EAPN Halton.

Connect with Sandra below:

Contact: sbelfry@lifespanpsych.ca
Request an appointment: referrals@lifespanpsychology.ca

Instagram: @lifespan.psych

S4E5: Sanctuary Trauma with Dr. Steve Jett

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Dr. Steve Jett is a clinical psychologist. He cares deeply about improving the mental health and well-being of first responders, athletes, and military veterans. He is the director of Jett Psychological Services. Dr. Jett leads a team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists who provide services to people throughout Ontario.

Dr. Jett is also the founder and director of Launch, a proactive mental health and well-being program for first responders. Launch is a 24/7 online program tailored to trauma-exposed professionals, such as firefighters, paramedics, police officers, dispatchers, and corrections officers. Launch stands alone in offering not only psycho-educational training, but also ongoing mental health monitoring and priority access to therapy for Launch members.

Outside of work, Dr. Jett enjoys playing golf, basketball, and a family-favourite board game called Azul. He also enjoys comfort food, traveling throughout Canada, and spending time with his family doing almost anything.

You can find more information about Dr. Jett here

S4E4: Two And A Half Psychologists: Former and Current OPA Presidents and OPA’s CEO Celebrate Psychology Month

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Laura Nichols, PhD is a clinical psychologist and a current board member and President of the Ontario Psychological Association. She is the founder and director of the Centre for Change in Ottawa, a multidisciplinary group private practice offering evidence-based mental health assessment and treatment for children, adolescents and adults across Ontario. Dr. Nichols serves as a clinical supervisor affiliated with the University of Ottawa and offers clinical training rotations in general mental health and trauma streams for psychology doctoral students and residents. Dr. Nichols has focused her clinic work on the assessment and treatment of occupational stress injuries including PTSD with first responders and the Canadian Armed Forces. She also works with individuals with mood and anxiety disorders as well as occupational stress. Dr. Nichols is a member of several national and international professional associations and has presented her research findings at many of these conference proceedings. She has published her research findings in tier-1 peer-reviewed publications. She has also held adjunct professor positions at several universities on the East Coast and in Ottawa. She has served as an ad-hoc reviewer for the Institute of Mental Health Research, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.

Connect with Laura through the following platforms:

Twitter

Facebook

Website

S4E3: Out from the Shadows: Growing up with Holocaust Survivor Parents

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0500

Willie Handler has reinvented himself on several occasions throughout his work career. He has been a hospital administrator, a government policy manager, an insurance expert, and consultant. Following his retirement from the Ontario public service, Willie began a writing career. He has published three fiction novels and numerus journal articles over the past few years. He is a member of the Canadian Authors Association, Writing Community of York Region, Toronto Chapter of Sisters in Crime, and the Stephen Leacock Association. Willie is active in Toronto’s Holocaust second generation and third generation survivor community, participating in educational programs, commemorative events, and group discussions. He is also a volunteer at the Toronto Holocaust Museum, where he assists students and visitors as they make their way through the museum’s gallery. Willie has spoken online and at in-person events on the Holocaust and his family’s experience.

Connect with Willie through the following platforms:

Website

Twitter: @WillieHandler

Facebook

Instagram: @williehandler

S4E2: Lessons from an Early Career Therapist with Dr. Dana Ménard

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0500

Dr. Dana Ménard is an assistant professor of clinical psychology in the Department of Psychology at the University of Windsor. She obtained her PhD from the University of Ottawa in 2013 after completing her pre-doctoral internship and the London Health Sciences Centre. Her PhD dissertation was published as a book, Magnificent sex: Lessons from extraordinary lovers, which won the 2021 consumer choice book award for the Society for Sex Therapy and Research and has been profiled in the New York Times, Psychology Today, and The Guardian. Her latest book, published October 2024 from Routledge, is entitled Lessons from an early career therapist: Managing mistakes, missteps, and other minor disasters. Her current research interests include sexual wellbeing and resilience, with a special focus on groups that have been marginalized or minoritized. Her research work has been funded by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. Outside of research, she enjoys running, yoga, reading, and baking.

Connect with Dana through the following platforms:
Personal Twitter/X
Lab Socials:
Twitter/X
Instagram
Facebook

S4E1: Chatting with OPA President Dr. Marlene Taube-Schiff

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400

Tune in as Dr. Taube-Schiff speaks about her experiences as OPA President, her practice treating OCD, and the upcoming 77th Annual OPA Conference.

Dr. Taube-Schiff has been a Registered Psychologist for almost 20 years and her clinical work has focused on the delivery of scientifically-supported treatments for obsessive compulsive and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, as well as a wide range of emotional and behavioural problems. She works with adolescents and adults. She is the Director and Founder of Forward Thinking Psychological Services, a multidisciplinary practice that delivers services to individuals with symptoms of OCD and OCD related disorders as well as anxiety, depression and trauma. She is one of the founding professionals of the Sunnybrook Intensive Services Program for OCD and is still involved in research initiatives for the program. She has over 25 scientific publications, including book chapters, and has presented numerous workshops and symposiums both nationally and internationally. She is an Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto and is a member of the Anxiety Canada Scientific Advisory Committee. She also holds Adjunct Faculty positions at York University and, previously, at Toronto Metropolitan University. Dr. Taube-Schiff is also engaged in a variety of teaching opportunities for healthcare professionals and trainees across Canada. Dr. Taube-Schiff is currently the President of the Ontario Psychological Association and the Interim Certification Chair for the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behaviour Therapies.

Connect with Dr. Taube-Schiff on Instagram, Facebook, and Linkedin or head to her website.

S3E10: Mind the Science with Dr. Jonathan N. Stea

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jonathan N. Stea is a full-time practicing clinical psychologist and an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Calgary. He’s a two-time winner of the University of Calgary’s Award for Excellence in Clinical Supervision and co-editor of the book Investigating Clinical Psychology: Pseudoscience, Fringe Science, and Controversies. Dr. Stea has published extensively, with regular contributions to Scientific American and Psychology Today, among other outlets, and has appeared on numerous mainstream television and radio shows, as well as podcasts. He was the 2022 recipient of the John G. Paterson Award from the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, an annual award presented for the exceptional contribution to portraying psychological knowledge to the public.

His new book, MIND THE SCIENCE: SAVING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH FROM THE WELLNESS INDUSTRY, aims to educate and embolden those who wish to make informed decisions about their mental health, to improve science and mental health literacy, and to pull back the curtain on the devastating consequences of allowing pseudoscience promoters to target the vulnerable within our society. It’s a must-have for readers of popular science who are curious to understand what mental health really means, or who have been touched by mental illness in some way. It provides readers with a science-backed takedown of pseudoscience, as well as an understanding of its evolution, seduction, and solution. In part, this involves exposing the mental health misinformation that pervades healthcare, pop culture, social media, and the wellness industry.

Connect with him on X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

Order Dr. Stea’s MIND THE SCIENCE: SAVING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH FROM THE WELLNESS INDUSTRY here: www.JonathanStea.com

S3E9: Prescribing Psychologists with Dr. David Shearer

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Some psychologists with extra training have been prescribing psychiatric medications for years. Tune in to find out how it’s been going!

ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Since 2009 Dr. David Shearer has been a clinical and prescribing psychologist for the Department of the Army at Madigan Army Medical Center (MAMC) in the state of Washington. He serves as a core faculty member and Director of Behavioral Sciences for the MAMC family medicine residency. Dr. Shearer is fully integrated into the family medicine clinics at MAMC as the primary psychopharmacological consultant and prescriber. In addition, he is a faculty member of the Department of Behavioral Health at MAMC. He is a recipient of the Major Eduardo Caraveo National Service Award for contributions to the advancement of prescribing psychology and the Distinguished Contribution to the Advancement of Pharmacotherapy at the State Level Award from Division 55 of the American Psychological Association (APA). He was awarded the Sustained Service Award by the Washington State Psychological Association (WSPA) for life-long service to WSPA and the field of psychology. He is a Fellow of Division 55, the Society for Prescribing Psychology, of the APA. Dr. Shearer is the Chair of the Washington State Psychological Association’s Prescribing Psychology legislative taskforce. He is a past-President of the APA Division 55 Board of Directors and the Editor-in-Chief of the division’s official newsletter, The Tablet. Dr. Shearer is a co-chair of the Taskforce updating and rewriting the Practice Guidelines Regarding Psychologists’ Involvement in Pharmacological Issues for the American Psychological Association. He is a past associate editor of psychopharmacology for the open access, international, peer-reviewed journal, npj Mental Health Research. Dr. Shearer teaches as an adjunct faculty member at Alliant International University and New Mexico State University in the psychopharmacology graduate programs. Dr. Shearer has appointments in the Department of Family Medicine as an assistant professor at the Uniformed University of Health Sciences and as a clinical instructor at the University of Washington. His research and professional interests include understanding and evaluating the combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in the treatment of behavioral health disorders, prescribing psychology in primary care settings, teaching psychopharmacology to psychologists and allied health care providers, and the development of prescribing psychology in the military. He is the author of book chapters and professional articles on these topics and has presented at numerous national, regional and state conferences.

Head to the channels below to learn more about the APA Division 55: Society for Prescribing Psychology
Twitter/X @division_55
Facebook

S3E8: What is a Public Health Panic with Dr. Raywat Deonandan

Mon, 27 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the On Psych Podcast Dr. Jonathan Douglas and Dr. Raywat Deonandan sit down to discuss the variables that contribute towards a public health panic.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Raywat Deonandan, PhD, is an Epidemiologist and Associate Professor with the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa, as well as a Senior Fellow at Massey College, University of Toronto. An award-winning novelist and journalist, Deonandan became recognizable in national and international media during the COVID-19 pandemic, appearing in over 2000 newspaper, television, radio, and podcast interviews. He continues to advise government, media, community groups, and the private sector on matters pertaining to the pandemic, and on how to communicate public health challenges to a variety of audiences.

S3E7: The Truth About Pandemic Suicides with Dr. Tyler Black

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

On this episode of OnPsych, we welcome Dr. Tyler Black — child and adolescent psychiatrist — to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Tyler Black is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and the Medical Director of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Emergency Department at BC Children's Hospital in Vancouver. With an impressive nine-year tenure, he has had the privilege of working closely with numerous families.

In addition to his impactful work within the hospital, Dr. Black is deeply passionate about advancing knowledge on the science of suicide. He actively engages in educational initiatives, aiming to raise awareness and foster understanding in this critical area.

Stay connected with Dr. Black and his research by following him on Twitter @tylerblack32. Explore valuable resources on self-harm and suicidality, as referenced by Dr. Black in this episode. Access the content at https://healthymindsbc.gov.bc.ca/resources/suicide-prevention-and-self-harm-video-series-and-resources/

S3E6: The Psychology of Pandemics with Dr. Steven Taylor

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

On this episode of OnPsych, we welcome Dr. Steven Taylor — clinical psychologist, professor, and author— to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Steven Taylor is a Professor and Clinical Psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry at UBC. His research and clinical work focus on anxiety disorders and the psychology of pandemics. Dr. Taylor has authored over 300 scientific publications and more than 20 books, which have been translated into many languages. His most recent book, published a few weeks before the outbreak of COVID-19, is titled The Psychology of Pandemics: Preparing for the Next Global Outbreak of Infectious Disease.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Taylor served as a member of the Canadian federal government’s expert panel on COVID-19. He has also been involved with the editorial boards of over a dozen peer-reviewed journals, and has held positions such as Associate Editor or Editor-in-Chief for several journals, including Behaviour Research and Therapy, Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, and Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders.

You can learn more about Dr. Taylor and his work by visiting: https://www.drsteventaylor.com

S3E5: Magnificent Sex with Dr. Dana Ménard

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode of OnPsych, we welcome Dr. Dana Ménard— clinical psychologist, assistant professor, researcher, and author— to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Dana Ménard is an assistant professor of clinical psychology in the Department of Psychology at the University of Windsor. She obtained her Ph.D. from the University of Ottawa in 2013 after completing her pre-doctoral internship and the London Health Sciences Centre. Her doctoral dissertation was published as a book titled Magnificent Sex: Lessons from Extraordinary Lovers, which won the 2021 Consumer Choice Book Award for the Society for Sex Therapy and Research and has been profiled in the New York Times, Psychology Today, and The Guardian.

Her current research interests include sexual well-being and resilience, with a special focus on groups that have been marginalized or minoritized. Dr. Ménard’s research work has been funded by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. Beyond her academic pursuits, she enjoys activities such as running, yoga, reading, and baking.

Stay connected with Dr. Ménard and her research by following her on Twitter @shufflersunite. You can also keep up with her lab's activities through their social media profiles:

Instagram: @MenardPsychGroup
Twitter: @MenardPsych
Facebook: MenardPsychGroup

S3E4: Climate Change & Mental Health with Katie Hayes, Ph.D.

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode of OnPsych, we welcome Katie Hayes, Ph.D. — senior policy analyst, researcher, and climate advocate — to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Katie Hayes, Ph.D. is a senior policy analyst at Health Canada’s Climate Change and Innovation Bureau. She is also the lead author of the mental health and climate change chapter for the National Climate Change and Health Assessment Report led by Health Canada.

Katie holds a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health. For her doctoral research, she investigated formal and informal responses (policies, programs, and practices) to the psychosocial impacts associated with a changing climate.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Katie was trained in 2018 by Al Gore as a Climate Reality Leader.

You can find out more about Katie Hayes’s work by visiting: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Katie-Hayes-7

S3E3: Exploring Brainspotting with Dr. Kris Boksman

Tue, 30 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode of OnPsych, we welcome Dr. Kris Boksman — psychologist, intensive interventionist, professional mentor and clinical instructor — to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Kris Boksman, Ph.D., C.Psych., is a registered clinical psychologist and the owner of Limestone Clinic. She works with a wide array of client populations, licensed to work across the age spectrum and provides services to children, teens, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Boksman's academic journey began with an Honours Bachelor of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Psychology from the University of Waterloo. She earned her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, from Western University, and later obtained her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, also from Western University.

Dr. Boksman employs the treatment modality/blend of treatments that is the best fit for each individual, including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Hypnosis, Relaxation Training, or Behavioural Therapy.

You can find out more about Dr. Boksman and her work by visiting: www.limestone.clinic

S3E2: Separation Pathways with Dr. Barbara Landau

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode of OnPsych, we welcome Dr. Barbara Landau — Psychologist, Lawyer, Mediator, Arbitrator and trainer — to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Barbara Landau, C.M., Ph.D., LL.B., LL.M., is the president of “Separation Pathways,” a multi-disciplinary, client-centred, safe and affordable choice for families seeking a cooperative option outside court.

Dr. Landau is a leader in the field of mediation and family dispute resolution. She is devoted to improving access to justice for families and reducing unnecessary conflict for children experiencing separation.

Barbara’s longstanding commitment to supporting her community and peers is evident in her work – both past and present. A few of her former roles include:

· Executive member of the ADR Section of the Ontario Bar Association

· Vice President of the ADR Institute of Ontario

· President of the Ontario Association for Family Mediation

· Executive Board member of the Academy of Family Mediators (now ACR)

· Director of the Psychology Foundation of Canada, chairing the “In Place of Violence” Committee.

Notably, Dr. Landau was awarded the Order of Canada for her contribution to family law reform and as an advocate in Canada and internationally for interfaith cooperation, human rights, democracy, and peace.

You can learn more about Dr. Landau and her work by visiting: www.separationpathways.ca

S3E1: The Promise Wheel with Dr. Richard Amaral

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

On the season 3 premiere of OnPsych, we welcome Dr. Richard Amaral — psychologist, author and speaker — to the podcast!

ABOUT OUR GUEST
Dr. Richard Amaral, Ph.D., is a registered psychologist in private practice working with adolescents, adults, and families both online and in-person. He is also the author of, “The Promise Wheel: Psychology for Growth and Balanced Living.”

Dr. Amaral received his Ph.D. from the University of Calgary in applied psychology. He received his Master’s degree in counselling psychology from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, focusing on adolescents and addictions. His Bachelor of Science degree, also in psychology, is from the University of Toronto, the city where he is proudly born and raised.

Dr. Amaral has special interests in addictions, anxiety, anger management, stress, trauma, and balanced living. He utilizes a variety of strategies to help people change, grow, and lead balanced lives.

He lives with his wife and twin daughters in Whitby, Ontario.

You can find out more about Dr. Amaral and his work by visiting his website at www.PsychologyForGrowth.com.

S2 E8: Dr. Julie Bindeman — Reproductive Psychologist & Advocate

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0400

On this episode of OnPsych, Dr. Jonathan Douglas sits down with guest, Dr. Julie Bindeman, to explore the multi-faceted realm of Reproductive Psychology — the scope of work, current challenges, and future potential.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Dr. Julie Bindeman graduated from the George Washington University and is the co-owner of Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington in Rockville, Maryland. Her specialty is in the field of Reproductive Psychology, where she actively writes, lectures, and presents. She is an approved consultant in EMDR through EMDRIA. She has served on several committees within the Mental Health Professional Group of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and was elected in 2021 to its Executive Committee. She served as a former Board Member of the Maryland Psychological Association for over 10 years. Dr. Bindeman is a member of multiple organizations focused on Maternal and Reproductive Mental Health and was appointed by the Governor of Maryland to serve on its Maternal Mental Health Task Force. She was recently awarded the Karl Heiser Award for her legislative efforts on behalf of psychology. Dr. Bindeman has published several chapters and articles pertaining to Reproductive Psychology.

S2 E7: Dr Beth Rom-Rymer -- Prescribing Psychologist and APA Presidential Candidate

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

On this episode of ONPsych, we hear from Dr. Beth Rom-Rymer to learn why her professional legacy has led many to consider her a force for social change within the field of Psychology.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Beth N. Rom-Rymer, Ph.D. has been a pioneer throughout her life. She was in the first class of women at Princeton University, graduating in 1973. She created the Victim-Witness Assistance Unit in the State Attorney's Office, Tallahassee, Florida, in 1977, which continues, today, as a robust service for crime victims and witnesses throughout the 2nd judicial circuit. During her tenure in the State Attorney’s Office, she worked on the Ted Bundy serial murder case, 1978-1979. During that time, Dr. Rom-Rymer co-founded and was the first Board president of Refuge House, a shelter for surviving families of domestic abuse in Tallahassee, Florida.

Throughout her professional career, she has continued to champion a variety of initiatives, often finding herself stepping up into leadership capacities when she recognizes need. Her desire to study Clinical Psychopharmacology during the 1990's is just one example of this, leading her on the path to become a national leader in the advocacy for psychologists' prescriptive authority.

At the time of this recording, Dr. Rom-Rymer is also a candidate for the American Psychological Association, President-elect (2023).

S2 E6: Dr. Jiaying Zhao — Can Basic Personal Income Improve Mental Health?

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jonathan Douglas sits down with Dr. Jiaying Zhao on this episode of the On Psych Podcast to discuss how we might leverage basic personal income as a means of improving mental health.

About Our Guest

Dr. Jiaying Zhao is the Canada Research Chair in Behavioural Sustainability and an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability at the University of British Columbia.

Dr. Zhao's work centers around the use of psychological principles to design behavioural solutions to address financial and environmental sustainability challenges. Specifically, Dr. Zhao examines the cognitive consequences of poverty and designs interventions to alleviate the psychological burdens of low-income individuals. In addition, Dr. Zhao develops behavioural interventions to encourage climate actions, recycling, composting, and biodiversity conservation.

Dr. Zhao has served as a research advisor and consultant for a dozen government organizations, including Privy Council Office, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, Policy Horizons Canada, Behavioural Insights Group in the Province of British Columbia, City of Vancouver, and the U.S. Social and Behavioral Sciences Team.

S2 E5: Dr. Raywat Deonandan — Communicating Science to the Public

Mon, 02 May 2022 03:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the On Psych Podcast Dr. Jonathan Douglas and Dr. Raywat Deonandan sit down to discuss the art of science communication in the public sphere.

About Our Guest

S2 E4: Dr. Julie Goldenson

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400

OPA President, Dr. Julie Goldenson, sits down with host, Dr. Jonathan Douglas, to discuss the relevance, focus, and ambitions of the OPA as the organization continues to adapt to meet the needs of its community.

About Our Guest

Dr. Julie Goldenson is a clinical and forensic psychologist and the current President of the Ontario Psychological Association. She has been practising psychotherapy, supervising psychotherapists, conducting forensic assessments, researching, and teaching for over 16 years. Dr. Goldenson currently holds a position as an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto (OISE) in the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Behaviour. She is passionate about trauma-informed forensic mental health practice and publishes and teaches on this topic.

Dr. Goldenson is also a member of the Program of Psychiatry and the Law in association with Massachusetts Mental Health and Harvard University and was the 2021 recipient of the Strasburger Award for her contributions to this program. She sits on the College of Psychologists of Ontario’s Fitness to Practice Committee and is a member of several organizations including the Canadian Psychological Association, the Canadian Association of Psychologists in Disability Assessment, the Association for Treatment of Sexual Abusers, the American Psychology-Law Society, the International Association of Forensic Mental Health Services, and the Society for Personality Assessment.

S2 E3: Hon. Minister Michael Tibollo

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

February is Psychology month!

On this very special episode of On Psych, host, Dr.Douglas sits down with the hon. Minister Tibollo for a candid conversation around psychology, mental health, and a few other important topics that you will not want to miss.

About our guest.

Prior to taking office, the Hon. Michael A. Tibollo volunteered as a certified addictions counsellor and advocated for a bed-based therapeutic community in the City of Vaughan, seeking to support those struggling with mental health and addictions challenges.

Passionate about helping those faced with mental health and addictions challenges, Minister Tibollo is currently pursuing his PhD in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Addictions and Concurrent Disorders through the University of Southern California.

Minister Tibollo holds several Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF) certifications, including:

Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor (C.C.A.C.)
Canadian Certified Recovery Coach (C.C.R.C.)
Canadian Indigenous Addiction Counsellor (C.I.A.C.)
Canadian Certified Telemedicine Addiction Counselling Professional (C.C.T.A.C.P.)

Minister Tibollo proudly serves the people of Ontario as the province’s very first Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and has made it his mission to create a connected system of care with comprehensive wrap-around services, so that every Ontarian can be fully supported in their journey towards mental wellness.

S2 E2: Bruce Hutchison - Emotions Don't Think: Emotional Contagion in a Time of Turmoil

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0500

S2 E1: Mark Baxter - Mental Health in Policing

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0500

ON Psych is back for season two!

In the first episode of season two, Dr. Douglas sits down with Mark Baxter, President of the Police Association of Ontario two discuss mental health in policing.

This is an episode that you will not want to miss.

About Our Guest:
Mark Baxter is President of the Police Association of Ontario (PAO). Mark was first elected to the PAO Board of Directors in 2014 as a Uniform Director. Since that time, Mark has been actively engaged in provincial matters related to policing, including holding the position of Board Chair for five of the last seven years.

Mark has been a police officer with the Brantford Police Service since January 2005. Throughout his 15+ year career, Mark has worked in front-line patrol, as a high school resource officer, as a qualified collision reconstructionist in traffic services and, most recently, as a front-line patrol Sergeant.

Mark was elected as the Vice President of the Brantford Police Association in 2012, and elected President in 2015. He held the position of Brantford Police Association President until 2021 when he was elected as PAO President by members across the province.

Mark lives in Brantford, ON and has two young sons – seven-year-old Jackson, and five-year-old Harrison. In his spare time, Mark is a basketball referee, officiating USport games at the national level as well as games for the National Basketball League of Canada.

Episode #11: Building Resiliency Pathways - Dr. Katy Kamkar

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500

In October of 2021, the OPA along with the City of Toronto hosted a virtual conference for front-line workers. The conference was aimed at essential workers and managers to help and support them as they deal with emotional exhaustion and burnout from COVID-19. During the conference, we recorded a number of engaging conversations that we're now presenting to our ON Psych listeners!

This episode is taken from a discussion called, Building Resiliency Pathways, presented by Dr. Katy Kamkar

We hope you enjoy.

Episode #10: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace During COVID-19

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

In October of 2021, the OPA along with the City of Toronto hosted a virtual conference for front-line workers. The conference was aimed at essential workers and managers to help and support them as they deal with emotional exhaustion and burnout from COVID-19. During the conference, we recorded a number of engaging conversations that we're now presenting to our ON Psych listeners!

This episode is taken from a panel discussion on the Impacts on Service Providers, and features Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee, Dr. Althea Monteiro and Dr. Jonathan Douglas.

We hope you enjoy.

Episode #9: More Than A Gender Identity

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Douglas has a candid chat with Christine Newman, LGBTQ2S Peer Support Advisor & Lived Experience Facilitator, Peer and Trauma Support Systems team, Mood Disorders Society of Canada , Facilitator - First Eyes | The Proactive Family Mental Health Program, Author, Apple Teacher, Storyteller, Educator, Speaker.

During this episode, listeners will hear and learn more about Newman's work in LGBTQ2S Peer Support as well as stories of her own lived experience which reminds us that we are more than a gender identity.

Episode #8 - “Self Care for Therapists and Other Humans”

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 16:00:00 -0400

On the latest episode of On Psych, Dr.Douglas sits down with the women behind the Intentional Therapist for a candid chat about self care.

About the Intentional Therapist.

We are Karen and Melissa, two mid-career(ish) psychologists who love what we do and also recognize how important it is to take care of ourselves in this work. (Read more about our professional backgrounds here.)

We know that there are so many other female mental health professionals like us who are trying to balance our careers with additional caregiving roles - whether young children (like Melissa), aging parents (like Karen), or anything in between. And who value self-care but struggle with making it a priority.

Episode #7 - Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 17:00:00 -0400

In this episode Dr. Douglas sits down with Dr. Sachiko (Sachi) Nagasawa, Director of Bay Psychology in North Bay, Ontario to discuss Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.

Dr. Sachiko Nagasawa is a registered clinical psychologist in the province of Ontario. She is the director of Bay Psychology, a private practice located in North Bay, Ontario and the traditional territory of the Anishnaabeg Peoples and the Nipissing First Nation. She completed a neurobehavioral science internship at McGill University and holds a Ph.D from the University of Toronto. Dr. Nagasawa has clinical interests in the area of prevention and optimum wellness related to perinatal mental health, embodiment, and trauma. She provides individual and group treatment as well as resiliency training to First Responder organizations. Dr. Nagasawa sits on multiple regional and national committees including the Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (CPMHC), the National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC), and Ontario Psychologists for Racial Justice (OPRJ). She is an author, university lecturer, and speaker at national conferences on various topics related to mental health.

Website
www.baypsychology.ca

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/BayPsychology

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/bay.psychology/

Twitter
http://www.twitter.com/DrSachikoNagasawa

Episode #6 - Psychedelic integration and Psychology

Thu, 13 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

On this episodes, Dr. Douglas sits down with Dr.Dawn Decunha, a leading voice in the area of Psychedelic Integration.

Dawn DeCunha has practised as a clinical psychologist for more than 25 years. After graduating from the University of Toronto, she opened her own clinic and never looked back. She is Trauma Informed and works with children, youth and their families.

A few years ago, a traumatic, life-changing event occurred in her personal life. Nothing she knew, as an experienced psychologist, was going to be helpful with the catastrophic trauma that derailed her comfortable and happy life.

Dr. Dawn’s investigative research outside of her traditional psychological training and beyond her mainstream practice, took her to the intersection of both indigenous plant medicines knowledge and leading edge novel psychological therapies.

So compelling was the research and so promising the opportunity for deep healing, that she formally studied for a year in the USA and completed the postgraduate Certification program in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy and Research at CIIS.

Shortly afterwards, she trained at Compass Pathways and has participated in Phase IIb Clinical Trials for the Health Canada approved study of Treatment Resistant Depression and Psilocybin.

Now, Dr. Dawn is very pleased to evolve her practice from a Trauma Informed clinic to a Psychedelically Informed clinic.

Episode #5 - School Psychology...before and during a Pandemic.

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:00:00 -0400

On the latest episode of On Psych, Dr. Jonathan Douglas is in conversation with Dr. Joseph Mirabella.

Dr. Joseph Mirabella has been Chief Psychologist at the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) since 2018. Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, he has worked at the board as a school psychologist since 2010. At the board, he was a member of the Newcomer Mental Health Team, supporting schools addressing the needs of Syrian Newcomers, and other students, affected by trauma. He was also involved in addressing learning and behaviour needs of high-risk students, and supporting their teachers and families. Dr. Mirabella received his Ph.D. from the University of Toronto in Psychology (Brain and Behaviour). Before working in schools, he was a Research Fellow at The Hospital for Sick Children, where he worked with a team investigating child visual brain development.

Episode #4 - A chat with the OPA President

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:00:00 -0500

On the latest episode of On Psych, Dr. Jonathan Douglas is in conversation with current OPA President, Dr.Jason Ramsay.

Dr. Jason Ramsay is a registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. He received a Doctorate in Human Development and Applied Psychology from the University of Toronto. Awards from the University of Toronto, Canadian Neurotrauma Foundation and the Whipper Watson Scholarship at Holland-Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation supported his doctoral research. He completed practical clinical training in assessment and rehabilitation of adults at the Sisters of Charity of Eastern Ontario Hospital-St. Vincent Pavilion, and with adults and children at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health-Clarke Site, Surrey Place Centre, and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehab. He was a post-doctoral fellow in neuroimaging and in public health research at St. Michael’s Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, and at the Centre for Research on Inner City Health in Toronto, supported by fellowships and awards from the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, The Canadian Institutes of Health Research-Strategic Training Program and the Peterborough K.M. Hunter Medical Research Program. He also obtained training in adult clinical assessment and treatment at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute and most recently motor vehicle accident and medical legal assessment at Kaplan and Levitt Psychologists in Hamilton, Ontario. He has authored empirical research studies in peer reviewed medicine, health geography, public health and psychology journals and has made numerous invited presentations at psychology and medicine conferences as well as at the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association conference.

He is currently in private practice as a founding partner and co-clinical manager of Niagara Psychological Wellness in St. Catharines, Ontario. He was appointed to and teaches as a Clinical Assistant Professor (Adjunct) at the Michael G. DeGroote Medical School at McMaster University. He is a member of the Hamilton Medical Legal Society, The Ontario Psychological Association, The Canadian Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association. He is the Ontario representative to the Canadian Professional Association of Psychologists. He is currently the Chair of the OPA-WSIB committee.

Episode #3 - Trauma and Grief

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0500

On the latest episode of On Psych, Dr. Jonathan Douglas sits down with Dr. Lori Triano-Antidormi to discuss grief, trauma and loss.

Dr. Lori Triano-Antidormi is a Registered Psychologist in the province of Ontario. She obtained her Ph.D from York University in 1998. Dr. Triano-Antidormi currently works in private practice in Hamilton, Ontario. She has particular interest and expertise in the areas of grief and trauma, providing treatment to individuals who have been impacted by a violent crime, a traumatic incident, and/or who have experienced a significant loss. Her practice also includes work with First Responders. Dr. Triano-Antidormi is a former Board Member of Niagara Victim Services and past Professional Consultant to Bereaved Families of Ontario, South Central Region. She was invited to sit on the Chief's Standing Committee on Police Interaction with People in Crisis, and she is a past President of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada Board of Directors. Dr. Triano-Antidormi has given many invited presentations on the issues of grief and trauma. For her personal and professional advocacy in promoting social justice for those living with mental illness, Dr. Triano-Antidormi was the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award, presented by the Schizophrenia Society of Canada, 2013.

Episode #2 - Access to Services and Gaps in Services

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of On Psych, host Dr. Jonathan Douglas sits down with Dr. Sylvain Roy to candidly chat and discuss access to mental health services in Ontario as well as some gaps in services available in the province.

About our guest:

Dr. Sylvain Roy is a bilingual rehabilitation neuropsychologist holding positions at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) & Inner City Family Health Team in Toronto and Adjunct Professor at York University. He received his Ph.D. in neuropsychology from the Université de Montréal and also holds degrees from York and McGill University. At Inner Family Health Team, Dr. Roy works exclusively with homeless men. Roles include the assessment of patient's neuropsychological functioning, providing treatment recommendations, the supervision of graduate and postgraduate students. At CAMH, Dr. Roy is the lead clinician in a service that provides neuropsychological, psychological, and functional (OT) assessments and cognitive rehabilitation services to patients with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Our service also provides advance clinical training to neuropsychology interns and postdoctoral fellows wishing to develop an expertise in the assessment and treatment of persons with severe mental illness.

Trailer: On Psych, Presented by the Ontario Psychological Association

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 18:00:00 -0500

Bringing together the leading minds in the field of Psychology as well as other industries to discuss the current events and issues that matter most. Hosted by: Dr.Jonathan Douglas

Episode #1: Children and COVID-19

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 15:00:00 -0500

On the inaugural episode of On Psych, Dr. Jonathan Douglas sits down with Maaike Canrinus to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects this Global Health Crisis might be having on children as they too navigate uncertainty.

Maaike is a school and clinical psychologist, and director of Riverwise Psychological Services. Maaike is committed to helping children, adolescents, and families when they are feeling stuck. She believes that providing effective service means helping families better understand their child so that they can feel empowered to move forward and if necessary, make positive changes in their lives. Maaike sees children and adolescents for psychological assessments and psychotherapy, and works with parents to support their children.

Maaike completed her M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Applied Developmental Emphasis, at the University of Guelph. She has completed additional training in psychological assessment, cognitive behavioural therapy, and emotion-focused family therapy. Maaike has worked in school board, clinic, and private practice settings. She lives in Barrie with her family and loves to be outdoors or doing creative activities in her spare time.