Cassandra Harmsen

M.A., Ph.D Candidate

Clinical Therapist

Sometimes, kids feel overwhelmed by their emotions, and they act in unhelpful or dangerous ways. Similarly, parents sometimes feel like they don’t know what to do; they are unsure of how to respond to their kids, or they’ve tried everything and nothing seems to be helpful.

Using evidence-based practices, I approach therapy from a client-centred lens to create unique treatment plans to accommodate each family’s needs and experiences. I strive to create a safe environment for both parents and children to feel empowered and confident while working together to meet shared goals. I work hard to create strong relationships built on a foundation of non-judgement and compassion.

Cassandra is an aspiring child psychologist working under the supervision of Dr. Zia Lakdawalla. She is a senior Clinical-Developmental Psychology student at York University, having completed her M.A. in 2021 and B.Sc. in 2014. She has worked with children, adolescents, and their parents in various capacities for the last 10 years. Over the last 5 years, she has trained in hospitals including, the Center for Addictions and Mental Health, and Ron Joyce Children’s Health Center in Hamilton, private practices, and community-based services, such as the York University Psychology Clinic (YUPC).

Client Focus: Children, Adolescents, Parents

Cassandra has expertise in treating:

• Anxiety
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Behavioural Challenges
• Low Mood & Depression issues
• Life Transitions
• Emotional Dysregulation
• Self-esteem/Confidence concerns

Types of therapy:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)