Adam is a Registered Psychotherapist and is the founder of First Step Men’s Therapy Clinic in Ottawa. He began his therapy journey in 2016 after returning from Dubai. Life had hit a crisis point and he felt lost. He happened upon a conversation with a psychologist on a panel discussion on TV and felt an inkling to contact the therapist. In therapy, he found the healing power of vulnerability and decided to create the same space for other men. He started First Step Men’s Therapy to create a safe space for men to open up, feel supported, and challenge the stigma and shame they can feel about mental health and therapy. The clinic has 17 practitioners of diverse backgrounds and modalities. They offer individual and couples counselling, low cost, and pro bono sessions to make this service accessible to as many men as possible and serve all of Ontario virtually.
Adam shared that at the beginning of his practice, he wanted to fix his clients’ problems, relationships, and emotions. He now understands that he can best serve his clients by holding space and trusting the process. In his practice, he uses Narrative, Emotion-Focused, Attachment Theory, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, CSAT, and Person-Centered therapeutic modalities.
He's passionate about his work and is in the process of opening more clinics across Ontario and starting group therapy for men this year.
Adam has allocated Mondays as self-care days and loves to exercise, spend time in solitude and in nature, and has recently been inspired by the author and Hindu priest Dandapani’s talks.
Contact Adam: adam@firststepmenstherapy.com
And the clinic https://www.firststepmenstherapy.com/
Thank you, Adam, for the inspiring chat. I wish you the best in expanding your purpose and practice!
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I look forward to learning and sharing about members all over Ontario, especially the ones working in the more remote regions, and ones with diverse approaches, or serving diverse and marginalized populations.
With love,
Mahshad Aryafar, RP
Connect Committee Chair
