Lydia J. Charak, RP, MA (EXAT), BSc, BAA is a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in Expressive Arts Therapy, CBT and Trauma-Informed care. 
She focuses on the treatment of individuals and groups of all ages who struggle with mental health issues and navigating difficulties in their lives.
Lydia’s treatment focus lies in the following areas:
- Trauma
- Life transitions
- Grief/loss
- Stress
- Self-esteem
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Legacy
- Creativity
Lydia Charak completed a Master’s Degree in Expressive Arts Therapy with a minor in Psychology from Switzerland at the European Graduate School and is a graduate of The CREATE Institute of Expressive Arts Therapy in Toronto, Canada. She also is a member of The Ontario Expressive Arts Therapy Association. In addition, Lydia has a BSc degree from the University of Toronto in Psychology and Criminology, and a BAA (Hons) from Ryerson University. She has also spent 5 years as a volunteer within mental health facilities working with youth, adults and seniors in a therapeutic capacity.
Lydia believes that everyone has a story and should have the opportunity to be seen, heard and understood. It is through the telling of their stories, by being witnessed, acknowledged and supported that clients find the capacity to develop a clearer understanding of themselves. A combination of talk, creative expression (no previous art experience is required nor necessary) and evidence-based therapies allows clients to access their emotions, thoughts, feelings and memories which may be difficult through strictly verbal and cognitive means. This approach to psychotherapy strives to integrate the client’s physical, emotional, cognitive and social functioning capacity, leading to an enhanced level of self-awareness and healing.
Informed by a foundation in visual arts, poetry and the study of dreams, Lydia brings a unique and compassionate approach to therapeutic sessions.
Lydia is committed to keeping her practice current and relevant through ongoing training and research in the latest therapeutic methods. She is LGBTQIA positive, culturally sensitive and works with a trauma-informed approach.