Lydia: Your Partner in Healing
My name is Appoline Nimbeshaho, but I prefer to be called Lydia. I understand how challenging life’s journey can be because I’ve lived it. Growing up, I faced profound trauma, loss, and adversity. At the age of 6, I witnessed the unimaginable during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, a tragedy that took my parents and left me and my siblings to navigate life on our own. From orphanages to foster care, I’ve faced trauma that shaped not just my life but also my passion for helping others heal.
Today, I am a mother of three amazing boys, a sister and a friend, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), a Beyond The Veil Mission funder, a mentor, a speaker, and a survivor.
My journey led me to Canada in 2010, where I found hope, resilience, and a new purpose. I draw on my personal experiences, professional training, fluency in French and English, and over six years of experience in mental health to offer a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach to therapy.
My philosophy
I believe that every individual has the potential to turn their pain into purpose. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey, and going at your own pace is important. By nurturing hope and empowering individuals, we can take positive steps toward managing our mental well-being and finding meaning in our experiences.
My Approach to Therapy
Specializing in Trauma therapy, I offer trauma-informed, person-centered care, blending psychoeducation on brain health with evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Attachment-Based Therapy, the Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM)®, and other trauma-focused therapies. I work closely with individuals from all walks of life, especially those in the Afro-Black, BIPOC, and immigrant communities, to support their healing and mental well-being.
My Mission
My goal is simple: to provide a breathing and safe space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you're seeking help for trauma, complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic stress, or relationship challenges, I am here to walk with you every step of the way. Together, we can create a path toward healing, understanding, and growth.
My Vision
My vision is to empower individuals, couples, and families to heal and thrive by helping them transform their emotional well-being through compassionate, brain-focused care that fosters lasting change and resilience.
Fun Fact About Me:
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You'll always find an avocado in my kitchen
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I believe laughter is one of the best therapy.
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I'm passionate about community-building and making a difference.
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My dream home includes a cozy library filled with books.
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In my free time, I'm always learning something new.
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The fall season is my absolute favorite - it's like nature's therapy session!
More About Lydia:
Education and Training
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Master of Divinity in Clinical Counselling – Tyndale University
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Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the CRPO
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Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals Member
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Fluent in English and French
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B.A. Bilingual, Honours Major in Sociology & Minor in Sexuality Studies – Glendon College, York University
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Fluent in French and English
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Integrative Trauma and Attachment Model (ITATM) Part 1 – Lori Gill
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Specialized training in trauma and attachment-focused therapy for individuals impacted by complex trauma.
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LivingWorks ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) Comprehensive training in suicide intervention and prevention strategies.
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Transforming Trauma with Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)
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Anger Management Program facilitator
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Tree of Life Narrative Therapy Practitioner
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Tree of Life in The Suite Case Practitioner
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Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)
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Online Therapy and Risk Assessment
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DBT Core Skills for Emotional Regulation
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Grief Counseling Certification
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Advanced Anxiety Treatment Techniques
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Dr. Sue Johnson's Intensive Course in Emotionally Focused Therapy: Attachment-Based Interventions for Couples in Crisis
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Additional Trainings in Progress:
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Complex Trauma Certification Level 1 & 2
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Comprehensive Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy
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EMDR & Parts Work for Complex Trauma
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Personality Disorders Certification​
"Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.”
- Hermann Hesse