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Dr. Maria Fakhouri, Psy.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Women's Wellness Coordinator

Dr. Fakhouri uses she/her/hers pronouns

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SPECIALTY AREAS
  • Women’s health

  • Relationship concerns (social, romantic, family, professional)

  • Body image issues

  • Immigrant and international student transition

  • Cultural identity development and exploration

  • Mood and anxiety disorders

  • Transformative social justice

  • Grief and loss


Additional Languages Spoken: 


Arabic 

Sometimes, we find ourselves trapped in unhealthy patterns and oppressive systems where we feel unappreciated, uncared for, and distressed. I believe that relationships can be a mechanism for change, and that this starts with the therapeutic relationship. Through a healing relationship, we can gain insight into harmful patterns, receive support and validation, and then be empowered to make a change in order to a live a life that is more authentic and aligned with our own needs. 


When working with me, you can expect to feel welcomed, respected and helped, no matter what identities you carry. I strive to provide culturally-affirming therapy, where your needs and your goals are placed at the center. My only goal is to ensure you leave the therapy space feeling understood and valued. I am warm, curious, and a little hilarious. I love to use a light humor in sessions, because I believe that laughter is a form of medicine and an authentic way to connect with others. As we work together and I take an interest in your values and beliefs, I encourage you to challenge mine if needed. In this relationship, there is no hierarchy – only healing.


As someone who grew up in the Middle East, I did not really have a space where I could talk about things like my mental well-being. I loved talking though, and I talked to my friends and family about their relationships, their stressors and their joys all the time. In my first year at the University of Toronto, I discovered the magic that is psychology and neuroscience; I channeled my curiosity into learning everything I could about the brain: thoughts, feelings and behaviors. And I talked about it all the time. I talked it about so much, that I decided it was time to do it professionally. 


Since beginning my doctoral degree at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, my clinical experiences have mostly included working in university counseling settings, such as the University of Illinois at Chicago, where I provided individual, group and couples therapy to folks from diverse cultural backgrounds, with a wide range of presenting concerns.


Given my personal history and experiences living in different countries, I enjoy working with fellow women and immigrants, as well as individuals with intersecting identities. I consider myself a proud ally to many marginalized communities, and always welcome the opportunity to work with people who have different identities and values than mine.


If any of this piqued your interest, please do not hesitate to reach out! I look forward to connecting with you, answering any questions you might have, and making this process a little less intimidating for you.

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