Sidra Tirmizi is completing her Master of Education in Counselling Psychology at the University of Manitoba. She previously studied ecology and psychology at the University of Calgary, where her research explored human and animal relationships. She is passionate about the meaningful ways humans and animals can support and enrich one another’s lives.

For the past ten years, Sidra has worked with children and adults with developmental and cognitive disabilities, including autism, ADHD, OCD, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and global developmental delays. She also spent several years working full time with the Calgary Distress Centre, responding to urgent crisis calls involving suicide, substance use, domestic violence and other critical situations.

Sidra is particularly interested in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Narrative Therapy. She recognizes that each person’s experiences are shaped by many interconnected parts of their identity, including their history, relationships, environment and culture. Her person centred approach allows her to meet each client where they are and thoughtfully adapt therapeutic approaches to their individual needs.

Sidra hopes to create a supportive space and trusted therapeutic relationship where clients feel comfortable developing their voice, exploring their experiences and building confidence.