“I think one of the most common misconceptions about mental health is that it represents weakness, or is the ‘fault’ of the individual… that if you only did more, worked harder, or were more positive, or less sensitive, then the hardship wouldn’t exist. And that simply isn’t true. I believe context is central to mental health, and I make room for the role of systemic injustices, cultural clashes, and the ails of the body in understanding anyone I work with.” -Dr. Sabina Sarin.

I have nearly 20 years of training and over 15 years experience working in the treatment of trauma (Complex Trauma, Developmental/ Attachment Trauma), sexual difficulties (desire, arousal/ pleasure, orgasm, pain), body image/ eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, BED), mood difficulties (anxiety, depression, grief), substance abuse, and relationship difficulties (e.g., communication challenges, infidelity, anxiety around intimacy).

I employ a non-hierarchical, humanistic, authentic and dynamic approach to therapy, incorporating techniques from Mindfulness and Somatic Therapies, Movement and Expressive Arts Practices, Cognitive Behavioural, and Insight and Acceptance Oriented Practices. One of my passions is in helping people get in touch with their bodies to express their truth, and to bring this into re(negotiating) intimacy and safety in all kinds of relationships, using consent based, pleasure focused and embodied methods. Another passion is in helping BIPOC immigrants, and first generation Canadians find their way forward without sacrificing their culture, ancestry or truth.

I work with each client to co-create a safe, real, and empowering space, rooted in principles of transparency, authenticity, choice, and non judgement, where we can safely delve into challenges and hard questions, and build the skills and confidence necessary to make desired changes. 

To date, I have worked with individuals, couples, families and groups, ranging in age from early adolescence to late adulthood. I have worked as a psychologist and clinical teaching supervisor in multiple public hospitals (CAMH -Toronto; MUHC, Douglas, Jewish General - Montreal), clinics, and private settings within Canada and the United States.

I am presently working primarily with women. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2s+ are encouraged to reach out. Teletherapy or in person sessions are offered. My rate is $225/ hour.

Featured References:

Sarin, S. Amsel, R. & Binik, Y.M. (2015). A Streetcar Named Derousal? A Psychophysiological Examination of the Desire-Arousal Distinction in Sexually Functional and Dysfunctional Women. Journal of Sex Research, 53, 1-19.

Sarin, S. Amsel, R. & Binik, Y.M. (2014). How Hot Is He? A Psychophysiological and Psychosocial Examination of the Arousal Patterns of Healthy and Dysfunctional Men. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 11, 1725-1740.

Sarin, S., Amsel, R., & Binik, Y.M. (2013). Disentangling Desire and Arousal: A classificatory conundrum. Archives of Sexual Behaviour, 42, 1079-1100.

Wiederman, M. & Sarin, S. (2014). Body Image and Sexuality. In Y.M. Binik & K. Hall (Eds.), Principles and Practices of Sex Therapy, 5th Edition, Guilford Press.