Amira Dirie

Amira Dirie

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

About me

Life’s valleys and hills bring a multitude of journeys—some long and arduous, others sudden and unexpected. At times, we might find ourselves slipping into liminal spaces, feeling unseen or invisible. Choosing therapy is a courageous step, and I want to acknowledge and validate where you are coming from. I come to this work as a therapist with deep roots in lived experience. As a 2nd generation Somali-Canadian and a Black Muslim woman, I am attuned to the complexities of navigating a world with intersecting identities and the nuances of culture. These experiences shape how we process life events, trauma, relationships, and the intricate inner work of healing.

I believe in the transformative power of bearing witness to one another’s stories and experiences. My mission is to honour your narrative and tread these waters with you, creating a space where you can bring your whole self, knowing you will be met with my whole self in return. Through trust and established safety, we will cultivate an environment that supports your healing and growth.

My approach is integrated and holistic, tailored to meet your unique needs and experiences. I combine various psychotherapeutic modalities to create a flexible framework for our work together. Through this, I hope to walk alongside you as you navigate the shifts and tensions of life, helping you find moments of joy, understanding and tenderness along the way. I believe that living with intention means cultivating awareness, self-compassion, and resilience in a way that feels authentic to you. I am committed to embracing your unique process and approach to therapy and working together to find what feels right for you.

Modalities Used by Amira

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Attachment-based therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Compassion Focused Therapy
• Culturally Sensitive Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
• Existential Therapy
• Humanistic Therapy
• Multicultural Therapy
• Narrative Therapy
• Person-Centered Therapy
• Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
• Strength-Based Therapy
• Trauma Focused Therapy

Amira's experience

• BIPOC+ Intersectional and Anti-Oppressive Support: I have diverse experience working with clients from various cultural backgrounds, focusing on BIPOC, and immigrant experiences, and using an anti-oppressive and intersectional approach to support healing.
• Emotion and Existential Concerns: I help clients navigate the uncertainty and ambiguity behind dense and deep emotions. I have experience navigating those hard-to-grasp existential concerns, guiding clients toward creating meaning and understanding in their lives.
• Trauma-Informed Assistance with Relationships and Life Events: I provide trauma-informed assistance to support clients through challenges related to relationships, life adjustments, and significant life events.

Fun Facts

I really enjoy the relaxing and exciting aspects of arts and crafts, and I find myself often scrapbooking or creating multi-media works to express feelings or maintain memories. A fun fact is that my secret (not-so-secret) quirk and hobby is wax seal stamping! I too know personally how the sensations of burnout or the loss of motivation when creating or pursuing projects can stop us from pursuing hobbies. I believe that our worth is not defined by the quantity of what we produce but by the quality and the meaningful value that our work, projects, and moments of leisure bring to our lives.