Kris Ravindran

What is your name?

Kris Ravindran

What do you do at Shift?

I am a Registered Psychologist dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey of self-discovery, resilience, and personal transformation. I help clients with improving their mood, identifying personal triggers, uncovering negative beliefs and unhealthy behavioural patterns and taking ownership of their lives and making empowered choices. I am known for my compassion, authenticity, and genuine belief in my client's inherent capacity for change. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences.

What are your academic credentials?

Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Business Minor from the University of Alberta, 2012 Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, 2015.

Why did you decide to become a therapist?

I initially wanted to become a medical doctor but life happened and plans fell to the wayside as it sometimes does in life and I would say that I did not find this path but this path found me. I wanted to study Psychology to learn more about myself after going through some life challenges and looking back, I wouldn't have it any other way. I am glad I crossed paths with this field of study and that I am now able to help people overcome their own challenges. I find it deeply fulfilling when clients leave my session thanking me, knowing that I've made a difference in their lives.

What do you bring to your therapy sessions, and what are some goals?

I am told that I am open, authentic, warm and kind. My first goal is to ensure that you are feeling heard, seen and understood because everyone wants to know that someone "gets them." Coming to therapy can be a nerve-wracking experience especially if it's your first time. Oftentimes, clients don't know what to expect. One of my goals is to talk about what therapy will look like at Shift Grit Inc during our initial session in order to put you at ease.

I can help you with:

• Anxiety and Stress Management: If you find yourself struggling with excessive worry, panic attacks, or stress-related issues, I can assist you in identifying triggers, teaching coping mechanisms, and cultivating a calmer mindset to face life's challenges with confidence.
• Depression and Mood Disorders: Dealing with depression can feel isolating, but you don't have to face it alone. I can provide you with emotional support and effective strategies to break free from the grip of depression and regain a sense of joy and purpose.
• Relationship and Family Concerns: Whether you're facing communication issues with your partner, family conflicts, or navigating a breakup, I can help you foster healthier relationships and improve your emotional connections.
• Self-Exploration and Personal Growth: Sometimes, we may feel stuck or uncertain about our life's direction. Through introspective exploration, I will guide you to understand yourself better, set achievable goals, and unlock your full potential.
• Trauma and Healing: If you've experienced trauma, healing can be a challenging journey. As a trauma-informed therapist, I will support you in processing painful experiences, building resilience, and reclaiming your life with renewed strength and hope.
• Work-Life Balance and Stress Management: In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being. I can help you find harmony between your personal and professional life, reducing burnout and enhancing your overall happiness.

Remember, seeking therapy is a courageous step towards self-improvement, and I am here to walk alongside you on this transformative path. Together, we will uncover your limiting beliefs, inner resources and work towards creating a more fulfilling and satisfying life.

Remember, the first step is often the hardest, but it can also be the most rewarding. You don't have to face your challenges alone - I'm here to help!

Who do you work with? (adults, children over x)

Adults, Teens (13-15 yrs old). Individual counselling only.

Why are you passionate about what you do?

I believe that everyone has the potential to maximize the quality of their lives with the right support and guidance and it is deeply fulfilling when I see my clients realize their goals. Sometimes we all get a little lost in life and I believe that getting the right help is key in making us feel a little more in control of our lives. A wise man once told me that the greatest gift you can give someone is the gift of your time and undivided attention and I am here to give you just that in order to help you back on the path of emotional wellness and to live a more empowered life.

What do you do in your spare time?

When I'm not working, I like to listen to music, sing and dance. I am an avid reader and a book hoarder. I like exploring nature's beauty and getting some forest therapy through a nice, long walk in the park for a good mind-body reset. I also find solace in yoga and meditation, which further deepen my understanding of mind-body healing. I love food and trying out different cuisines, which is both a blessing and a curse. A blessing because it satisfies my big appetite. A curse because it also means I have to hit the gym to balance things out but I get the added benefit of a good endorphin hit anyway.

What is a skill that you are currently working on?

My current area of interest is sex therapy and I am training to increase competency in this field. Sex and sexuality-related issues can be very uncomfortable for some clients to talk about because it is deeply personal and requires extra vulnerability. Clients want to know that their therapist is not judging them and that they are accepted and you can expect just that from me. I am comfortable talking to you about anything sex and sexuality-related, so please do not hesitate to bring it up in session if this is an area you would like to talk about.

What motivates or inspires you?

Living a meaningful life and personal growth motivates me. Life is finite and I believe that we are here not to simply exist but to thrive. I am a deep thinker and would like to believe that when I leave this earth, I left it in a better place than when I found it, be it through charity work, planting a tree or making someone's day by complimenting them. I am inspired by people that have gone through painful life experiences and have come out on the other side stronger and more resilient. I like to learn from them.

Available for:

Anxiety | Depression | Stress | Suicidal Ideation/Thoughts | Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence Issues | Grief and Loss | Divorce and Separation | Healthy Communication and Conflict Resolution | Life Transitions | Sexuality and Sexual Intimacy issues | Relationship issues | Modern Dating issues | Assertive Communication | Boundary Setting, Personal Growth | and much more...