“Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it.” – Audre Lorde
Christina Kahlou
MSW, Registered Social Worker
Pronouns: She/her
With over two decades of dedicated therapeutic practice, I’ve cultivated a deep understanding of human resilience, specializing in guiding individuals through the complexities of trauma and PTSD. My unique path, including hands – on experience as a midwife in Texas and Belize, instilled in me a profound appreciation for life’s significant transitions and the strength found within diverse communities. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I work with individuals from all walks of life – encompassing diverse cultural, sexual, spiritual, and emotional health experiences – who are navigating challenging relationships, profound grief, or significant illness. In a world that often feels contradictory and anxiety-producing, many of my clients yearn for peace, safety, and joy. My commitment is to help you consciously shape an emotional space within yourself, a place of grounding and inherent goodness, where true healing and growth can flourish.
What can I help you with?
I work with Teens, Adults, & Seniors.
I’m the therapist for you if:
- You’re curious to explore the subtle ways triggers impact your life, eager to learn techniques that bring harmony to your nervous system and deepen your capacity for self-care and authentic connection.
- You’re a queer and/or neurodivergent therapist looking for someone who really gets it.
- You sense the importance of boundaries but seek support to define and embody them, striving to establish relational patterns that honour your needs and promote mutual respect.
- You feel called to engage actively in a gentle, compassionate process to understand and integrate past experiences, fostering profound healing at your own pace.
- You’re looking for a compassionate, affirming space to explore how to genuinely support your 2SLGBTQIA+ child, fostering open communication and a deeper, more confident connection.
- You’re navigating the complexities of evolving family dynamics after setting boundaries, seeking to cultivate a strong sense of belonging and self-identity within your changing relationships.
Experience with:
- ADHD
- Adoption
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Autism
- Body Image and Positivity
- Boundaries
- Consensual Non-Monogamy
- Depression
- Domestic Violence & Abuse
- Exploring Gender & Sexual Identity
- Family & Interpersonal Relationships
- Grief and Significant Illness
- LGBTQ+
- Men’s Issues
- Narcissistic Personality (NPD)
- Newcomers and Refugees
- Suicidal Ideation
- Parenting
- Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
- PTSD & Trauma
- Relationship Issues
- Sexual Violence & Abuse
- Stress
- Therapists & Helpers
- Transgender Identity and Transitioning
My Approach
My style is direct and sometimes funny. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion and a deep understanding of your unique journey. It’s trauma-informed and culturally sensitive, recognizing how your lived experiences shape your present. I believe healing is a collaborative process, so we’ll work together at your pace, fostering a safe and empowering space for authentic exploration and growth. I integrate practical strategies for nervous system regulation, healthy boundary setting, and emotional resilience, helping you gain a greater sense of control and inner calm. The goal isn’t just to process the past, but to equip you with tangible skills to navigate daily life with more agency, self-compassion, and a stronger connection to your most authentic self.
Therapy Approaches: Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, Strengths Based Therapy, Trauma-Informed
Working with me
Working with me means stepping into a space where your unique story and experiences are deeply honoured and understood. My goal is to gently guide you to release your past, build resilience, and help you cultivate a profound sense of inner peace and grounding in the present. You can expect to leave each session feeling more empowered and hopeful about navigating your path forward.
Sanctuary
Discover a dedicated, non-judgmental haven where you can bravely unpack your experiences, finding the clarity and peace needed to truly heal and reclaim your sense of self.
Empowerment
Cultivate practical, actionable skills to navigate life’s challenges, empowering you with the choice and agency to respond intentionally, foster resilience, and rediscover genuine joy and creativity in your daily life.
Wholeness
Experience an approach that honors the interconnectedness of your mind, body, and spirit, fostering a comprehensive understanding of your journey and empowering you to live with greater integration and authenticity.
Just for fun
Q: Hidden talents?
A: I’ve trained my cats to come to whistles–from anywhere in the neighbourhood!
Q: Hobbies?
A: I have a real love for discovering beautiful music that moves my soul; audiobooks; and perfecting basil pesto recipes.
Q: Ideal Vacation?
A: Give me a Canadian lake, some shade, and a book.
Q: Biggest Fear?
A: “Reality” tv shows, anything hazelnut, and turtlenecks!
Q: Extroverted or Introverted?
A: A little of both – I’m noticing the need for quiet to recharge my battery
Q: Top Bucket List Item?
A: Ride an elephant
Credentials
Master’s of Social Work, Carleton University
Bachelor of Arts, University of Waterloo
OCSWSSW Registration – 826280
Fees & Session Costs
Individual 50-Minute Session: $175
Sliding scale spots are full.
Training Highlights
Embracing Sex Positivity, Encanta Counselling (2025)
Neurodivergence in the Bedroom, Embodied Sexual Wellness (2025)
Polyvagal Theory
Vicarious Trauma, Compassion Fatigue
Managing Conflict for Couples
EMDR, Niagara Stress and Trauma
DBT, Transformation Counselling
Global Appraisal of Individual Needs Assessment
Effective De-escalation Training
Domestic and Sexual Violence
ADHD
Group Facilitation
Adolescent Mental Health
Circle of Security – Trainer Certification
Solution Focused Therapy
Attachment and Psychopathology
Trauma Counselling for Front Line Workers
Neuro-Relational Assessment Framework
Connect with yourself again
Start with a free consultation today and rediscover yourself