Covered by Most Benefits Plans. Please be sure to check with your insurance provider.
Covered by Most Benefits Plans. Please be sure to check with your insurance provider.
At Mind 2 Heart Connections, we invite you to embark on a voyage of healing and self-discovery. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your experiences and unlock the power of relationships to foster growth and love.
Welcome to Mind 2 Heart Connections, where compassion and understanding converge to heal the wounds of childhood trauma. My name is Laura Banks, a registered social worker (Registration # 840494), and I am the proud owner of this sanctuary of hope and resilience. With a profound passion for helping children, families, and adults, I have dedicated almost 30 years of my life to the field of childhood trauma.
My journey began as a treatment foster parent, opening my heart and home to countless children in need. This lived experience became the bedrock of my work and fueled my unyielding commitment to unravel the complexities of healing. Mind 2 Heart was born from this very passion – a desire to explore and comprehend the spaces inside children that yearn to love and be loved, yet have been scarred by trauma.
The pursuit of knowledge and my commitment to making a difference led me to embark on a transformative path – I returned to school to achieve my lifelong goal of graduate studies. However, the most profound education I received came from the children and families I served, who became my young teachers. They taught me invaluable lessons about living, loving, and healing hurt and traumatized souls.
At Mind 2 Heart, we believe that every child, every individual, needs security and commitment to heal. We recognize that healing occurs within the context of relationships – be it therapeutic relationships, familial bonds, or the embrace of a supportive community. Our practice revolves around nurturing these connections to facilitate growth, resilience, and transformation.
As my young teachers, who happen to be my children, have grown, so has my determination to delve deeper into the realm of neurodiversity. Mind 2 Heart is firmly rooted in the belief of embracing neurodiversity and harnessing the wealth of knowledge we have about the human brain.
Through our therapeutic journey, we celebrate the beauty of individuality and neurodiversity. We tailor our approaches to each person’s unique needs, acknowledging that everyone’s healing path is as exceptional as they are.
At Mind 2 Heart Connections, we invite you to embark on a voyage of healing and self-discovery. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your experiences and unlock the power of relationships to foster growth and love.
Join us on this transformative journey. Together, we will heal, grow, and embrace the wonders of neurodiversity and the human spirit.
I am a social worker (Registration # 840494) and owner at Mind 2 Heart. I have been working in the field of childhood trauma with children, families and adults for more than 20 years. I was a treatment foster parent for over 20 years and this lived experience has been the foundation for my work. This business was born out of my passion and commitment to understand how to help children heal those spaces in-side of them that have interfered with their ability to love and be loved.
I bring to my practice what I learned in my journey through returning to school to complete a life long goal of graduate school but more importantly I bring what many children and families have taught me about living and loving hurt and traumatized children. Children need security and commitment to heal. We all heal within relationships, relationships in therapy, in families and in communities.
As my young teachers (my 7 neurodiverse children) have grown so has my need to seek new information regarding neurodiversity. Mind 2 Heart is born from a place of embracing neurodiversity and all that we are now learning about the brain.
Client Focus: Child, youth, adults and family
Types of Therapy: Developmental Dyadic Psychotherapy, CBT, exposure therapy, Attachment therapy, trauma therapy, Safe and Sound Protocol, NMT, Brain based approaches to trauma, neuroaffirming
Areas of Focus: Childhood trauma, trauma, anxiety, depression, pregnancy and infant loss, infertility, adoption, divorce and separation, grief
More than just my work: When I am not working, or parenting you can find me near the water. I love to spend time in nature and in quiet spaces.
My name is Jade O’Hare. I am the client care coordinator for Mind 2 Heart. My goal here at M2H is to provide responsive, caring support for families and individuals that come to us for service. As an autistic w/ADHD (auDHD) woman and a mother of 2 neurodivergent children, I am dedicated to learning and supporting my children, as well as others in any way I can. In my spare time, I love to create art in a variety of mediums while also being an avid reader. I have lived in Simcoe County for over 20 years and I would love to see more neurodiverse safe spaces in our local community. I am excited to be a part of a clinic that is creating spaces and services that are autistic affirming.
There are times in our lives when it is difficult for us to speak about traumas or inner conflict, but artmaking helps us reconcile these feelings out into the world for us to see. I would like to support you in expressing and finding understanding in yourself. I combine psychotherapy (talk therapy) with art therapy as a Professional Art Therapist.
If you or someone you know is interested in trying a new method of therapy, using approaches such as drawing, painting, sculpture and more, I can assist you with care and compassion. I am also a secondary school art teacher and appreciate the issues that modern youth face. I bring a calming demeanour to my sessions as well as an authentic playfulness and humour that children and youth often enjoy. There is no pressure to create each session, though the invitation is always present. Please reach out to learn more, no artistic skill is necessary.
Jen has an Honours BFA Degree in Visual Art and is a certified (OCT) Ontario Secondary School Teacher. Jen is a graduate of the esteemed Toronto Art Therapy Institute, completing her major thesis project focused on living with long illness. Jen is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Professional Member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association. She has been facilitating therapy with children, youth, and adults for the past 3 years and would be happy to share more about herself and her experience.
Client Focus: Children, youth, adults, couples and family
Types of Therapy: Expressive Arts therapy, Psychotherapy
Areas of Focus: Chronic pain, depression and anxiety, childhood trauma, youth issues, family dynamics, medical trauma, challenges with school/learning
More than just my work: When she is not working as a therapist, she is a secondary school art teacher, mother, and partner. She has 4 cats, a dog and an aquarium
Struggling to express yourself or understand your emotions? Feeling held back by past rules and memories? Taking the step into therapy can be tough. The fear of not being heard or being misunderstood might be holding you back from couples counselling or your individual work. I get it—it’s not easy. But I’m here to offer a personal and unique approach in a safe, judgment-free space so you can reach your goals. Let’s work together to connect and move forward.
I have a background in assisting individuals facing challenges like homelessness, addiction, financial stress, food insecurity, and navigating complex social systems. My work has involved helping youth in detention centers, supporting dually diagnosed adults in day programs, and working with couples dealing with relationship issues. My expertise extends to mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal thoughts, as well as addressing addiction, anger management, and men’s issues.
It’s common for folks to hold back from therapy out of the fear of not being heard or facing judgment. This is especially true for men, who often encounter societal pressures urging them to tough it out rather than seek help. Having gone through my own therapy journey, I deeply understand these challenges. I’m here to provide a supportive environment where you can feel acknowledged and accepted. Let’s embark on this journey together, working towards your well-being and personal growth.
I am a Registered Social Worker, graduating from Lakehead University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. I am currently completing the Masters of Social Work
Client Focus: Couples, Families, Individuals, ages 16+, Neurodiversity, Intellectual disabilities
Types of Therapy: CBT, Strengths-based, Couples Counselling Gottman (Level 2), ADHD certification, currently completing EFT training,
Areas of Focus: Anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, infidelity, anger management, relationship issues, men’s issues, intellectual disabilities, mental health issues, addiction
More than just my work:
I’m married and a proud father to a brilliant 4 year old boy and 3 pets who interrupt my sleep regularly. The majority of my free time is now happily spent playing monster trucks, watching Paw Patrol, or acting out scenes from Star Wars. I have discovered that I love to write and really enjoy making song playlists. I’m passionate about music, – I would guess that I’ve been to approximately 500 concerts thus far.
Whether you’re grappling with the aftermath of a single impactful event or navigating through a series of distressing experiences, I’m here to guide you on a journey towards relief and healing with cutting-edge EMDR therapy. Together, we can address the weight of the past, gently untangling the knots of memories and images that may have lingered. If you’ve ever yearned for a release from the grip of these moments, my approach aims at providing that much-needed relief.
I also provide family therapy and incorporate practical Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques into our sessions. My commitment is to customize your therapy experience, assisting you in finding comfort and guiding you toward a brighter and clearer path forward.
Tracy is a registered social worker with a Master’s degree in social work and she is an EMDR trained therapist. Over the past twenty-three years, Tracy has practiced social work in the public sector, working with vulnerable children and adults who have experienced trauma and are living with secondary post traumatic stress symptoms or disorders.
Tracy’s Mind 2 Heart work is with children and adults who are navigating complex family dynamics. This deep connection and sense of purpose for Tracy, comes from her own childhood experience, having been separated from her family while growing up in the child welfare system. Tracy’s experience enables her to connect quickly; together, you and Tracy can develop a treatment plan, so you can feel hopeful knowing that you are on the best path to move forward.
Client Focus: Families, individuals, and children (starting 5+)
Types of Therapy: CBT, EMDR, and Family Therapy
Areas of Focus: Trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and addiction, complex family problems, adoption, kinship care, youth issues, Neurodiversity, PTSD
More than just my work: Tracy recognizes that her work brings you together at a time in your life when you are vulnerable and facing challenges. She is strongly committed to providing you with services that are thoughtful and respectful.
Outside of her work, Tracy’s best days are ones filled with time outside in nature, practicing yoga or downhill skiing with her family.
Favourite quote: “The mind replays what the heart can’t delete.” – Unknown
Is your child finding it tough to manage their emotions and regulate themselves? Are you feeling a bit lost, unsure how best to support them? Not sure how to navigate their feelings of being bullied, conflicts with peers or loneliness? Perhaps you’ve recently gone through a separation, family losses and other life changes and you’re worried about how your child is coping with it all?
It’s tough when they’re feeling sad, frustrated and anxious. Understanding and managing emotions can be really tricky for kids, and it can leave them feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and alone.
I’m here with genuine care and understanding, ready to offer a safe and non-judgmental space for children, teens, adults, and families to navigate and explore these challenges. Together, we can work on building resilience and finding effective ways to cope.
My journey began with my own lived experiences in a family affected by divorce sparking a passion for helping others understand and navigate the challenges life throws at us. Through years of volunteering and professional work in crisis intervention, child welfare, applied behavioural analysis, social skills development, and peer mentorship, I’ve gained a deep understanding into the struggles children, adults and families may face. My approach to therapy is eclectic and collaborative, tailoring to the unique needs of each client.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and have a Master’s of Counselling Psychology. I have completed Level 1 of Play Therapy training and working towards being a certified play therapist. Having an educational background in Criminal Justice and Public Policy I bring a unique perspective to my therapeutic practice. I would be honoured to walk alongside you or your child on a therapeutic journey offering support, guidance and empowerment every step of the way.
Client Focus: Children, Youth, Adults, Family
Types of Therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Narrative Therapy, Neuro-affirmin, Play Therapy informed, Neuro affirming
Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADHD, Social Skills, Emotional Regulation, Self-confidence, Life-transition challenges, and Family issues including separation/divorce, loss and grief
More than just my work: When I am not working, I prioritize my well-being through various self-care practices including mindfulness, culinary creativity and spending time with family and friends. I particularly enjoy spending time outdoors including camping in the summer months.
People are often hesitant in seeking counselling because they feel something may be wrong with them, not being fully happy, and that things will not be able to get any better. In times of struggle we can become so disconnected, even from ourselves and with the ones we love.
All of us suffer from mental health issues or other difficulties at one time or another. I have had my own. I have experienced great sadness from the death of my father, my children never knowing their grandpa in person, miscarriage, and countless other issues that kicked me in the gut when I thought life was going smoothly. Speaking about life’s difficulties can help to normalize some of our feelings and make us feel less alone in our struggles. I will “walk and talk” along with you at the pace you set and is most comfortable for you. Whatever it is you are seeking, I will be here to help you reach the goals you have set for yourself. My goal is to see you living the kind of life YOU are wanting to live.
I use a strengths-based, client-centred, neuroaffirming, trauma-informed approach so that the clients I serve feel both valued and validated. My compassionate and non-judgemental nature will help make you feel comfortable in being your full authentic self so that your healing journey can begin.
I am a Registered Social Worker with over 11 years’ experience. I have worked within long-term care assisting individuals and family members around issues of adjustment, grief, loss/bereavement, as well as has worked with individuals experiencing mental health issues.
Client Focus: Individuals 16+
Types of Therapy: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and attachment-focused, trauma-informed, strengths-based, neuro-affirming
Areas of Focus: Anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood trauma, family dynamics, grief and loss, bereavement, parent stress/support, attachment issues
More than just my work: When you do not see me virtually or at the office you may see me on a trail with my family in the great big outdoors.
“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” – Mary Anne Radmacher
Are you and your partner feeling distant, overwhelmed by constant misunderstandings, or struggling to rebuild trust after infidelity? The connection and intimacy you once had may feel like a distant memory, leaving both of you frustrated and unsure about your future together.
Couples often seek couples therapy to address more than just crises. Life transitions like parenting, marriage, grief and loss, shifting spiritual beliefs, changes in relationship values, and challenges with sex and intimacy can make it hard to navigate your relationship with clarity and compassion. These challenges can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face them alone.
I’m here to help. I believe in the power of couples counselling to bring couples closer, improve communication, and restore love and connection. With compassion and non-judgment, I create a safe space where both partners feel heard, respected, and understood.
My commitment to helping couples thrive extends beyond our sessions. As a lifelong learner, I am dedicated to continuously improving my skills and staying up-to-date with the latest therapeutic methods. I have completed Level 1 training in IMAGO therapy, which helps couples deepen their understanding and connection. I also utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT),and Gottman Certificate, giving you a range of tools that are tailored to meet your unique needs. By investing in my own education, I’m able to provide you with the most effective, research-based approaches to help you and your partner rebuild trust, improve communication, and foster deeper intimacy. Whether you’re dealing with infidelity, divorce, separation, or simply seeking to strengthen your relationship, my goal is to equip you with practical, and lasting solutions.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and I hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology as well as a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) from Yorkville University. My ongoing dedication to learning ensures that you receive the highest quality care.
Client Focus: Couples
Types of Therapy: Emotionally-focused couples therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Neuro affirming, Imago therapy, Gottman, Integrative Relationship therapy
Areas of Focus: Healing from affairs/infidelity, effective communication, life transitions, loss and grief, separation/divorce, sex and intimacy
More than just my work: You will find me in my kitchen sharpening my culinary skills, hiking on our beautiful trails, and practicing Mindfulness and Pilates
“It’s more than just the dates, holding hands and kissing. It’s about accepting each other’s weirdness and flaws. It’s about being yourself and finding happiness together. It’s about seeing an imperfect person perfectly.” – Unknown
Do you long for clarity in your values and goals but feel stuck in patterns that are holding you back? Are your relationships leaving you feeling unsatisfied, like they’re not quite in sync with what truly matters to you? Do you sometimes feel frustrated—whether with the world around you or with how you see yourself? Or maybe your child is facing challenges, and you want to support their emotional growth and resilience, helping them reach their full potential.
Whether you’re seeking a deeper connection with others, a stronger relationship with your true self, or looking to nurture your child’s development, I am here to support you.
With nearly a decade of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals—from toddlers to seniors—and working closely with their families and caregivers, I am skilled in addressing a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My approach combines the structure and effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with the warmth and depth of the Humanistic approach. Together, we will address the patterns of thinking and behaviour that may be holding you back, while exploring what truly matters to you—your values, emotions, and personal goals. This holistic approach supports the mind, body, and emotions, fostering both immediate change and lasting growth. As you unlock your self-compassion and embrace your true self, you’ll feel more balanced, connected, and fulfilled. Let’s discover the wisdom you already hold!
Sahar is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) pursuing a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, under the supervision of Laura Banks (RSW, MSW).
Client Focus: Couples, Families, Individuals, Children (7+)
Types of Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, with a Neuroaffirming Approach
Areas of Focus: anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, attachment & relationships, communication skills, emotional regulation, personal development, executive functioning, self-esteem, stress management, and life transitions.
Specialties – Working with neurodivergent children, youth, adults, and families, coping skills, autism, parent training and support
More than just my work: One of life’s simple joys for me is watching others savor the food I prepare —happiness is always on the menu in my kitchen!
“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there” – Rumi
Join us on this transformative journey.
Together, we will heal, grow, and embrace the wonders of neurodiversity and the human spirit.
F-570 Bryne Drive
Barrie, ON
L4N 9P6
We humbly acknowledge we in Barrie are on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Anishinaabeg people, which include the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Pottawatomi Nations collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy, and prior to the middle of 17th century the Wendat Nation and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. We add our voices to the call for Truth and Reconciliation and healing for injustice. We commit to learning more so that we are able to act as good neighbours on these lands.
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