Hi, I'm Nina

Let me tell you a little about me.

Who am I?

I'm a Registered Psychotherapist, a firefighter, and a queer woman. I serve clients all across Ontario through virtual therapy, and am planning to expand into New Brunswick in 2026.

Who do I work with?

I work primarily with other first responders and queer folks, focusing on trauma and PTSD, and all the ways they affect our lives. I am hoping to expand into couples and polyamory work in 2026.

What's my professional experience?

My background is in forensic mental health, which primed me well for the work I do now. I worked in the federal correctional system for 7 years, where I cut my teeth supporting a variety of different people with different types of mental health needs, and providing crisis support to frontline workers and first responders following traumatic events. Following that, I completed a practicum at the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston, working with survivors of childhood and adult sexualized violence before opening my private practice.

What am I trying to do for my clients?

My goal is to make therapy and the therapeutic space comfortable and safe for everyone. I do that firstly by honouring your unique intersectional identity and how it plays an essential role in your life. Who you are and how you see yourself impacts your experiences, worldview, and mental health, and makes a framework for how you engage with others, including in my office. Understanding that is the foundation of good therapy in my opinion, and if we start there, you'll be in the best position to make the changes YOU want to see in your life.

What else is worth knowing?

I'm an avid forager, hiker and backpacker. My love of the outdoors and nature also finds its way into my work through the use of nature-centered mindfulness techniques.

What's unique about me as your therapist?

Part of what makes me unique is my experience. I've worked in the prison system and seen firsthand the violence, chaos, and pain that exists in those spaces. I know what it's like to battle with the reality of that environment.

In addition to being a therapist, I'm also a full-time firefighter. I've been to tough calls, I know the challenges, and I speak the language. Doing the job myself is what helps me connect with you on a deeper level.

Outside of my work experience, my own experiences as a queer woman allow me to connect, empathize with, and support other queer folks, be it in emergency services or in day to day life.

Nina Halstead, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

My Approach

I understand that trauma presents in different ways for different people, and how important it is to be able to understand what's happening to you. I use a trauma-informed, feminist, integrative approach to psychotherapy, meaning that I work with you to identify your goals and challenges, and always place you in control of what our focus is in session. I tailor my treatment approach to your specific needs, drawing from psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and cognitive processing therapy to give you tools and strategies that work for you. In essence, I make therapy fit you rather than making you fit into a specific therapeutic approach or technique. I'm committed to providing the highest quality of care to all my clients and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your experiences and discover new ways of managing your mental health.

Reach out if you have any questions about whether I'd be the right fit for you.