Mark Atia
— Clinical Director, Social Worker, MSW, RSWWhen people face difficult or challenging times they look for help. Helping and supporting people is my passion.
About Mark
I am a registered Social Worker (RSW) who completed my Master of Social Work degree (MSW) at the University Of Windsor. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Graceland University in Iowa, USA. I am accredited and licensed by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and have over 20 years of counselling experience in mental health and social services.
I have unique expertise in counselling athletes who face challenges on and off the field. Based on my past playing career in a USA D1 NAIA Varsity soccer program while on a soccer scholarship and playing in the Canadian Professional Soccer League (CPSL), now known as the Canadian Premier League (CPL). I can combine my playing experiences with my professional counselling expertise to help guide athletes in navigating their challenges. I am an assistant coach with the Toronto Metropolitan University’s Men’s Soccer team.
In 2008, I started this practice to focus on primary clinical interests, including anger management, stress management, adjustment issues, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, conflict resolution within a domestic or professional setting, and drug/alcohol counselling. I specialize in providing individual therapy to older adolescents and adults.
My primary theoretical orientation is Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), although I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to offer a personalized approach tailored to each client. My background and training have shaped my interest in promoting improved mental health, interpersonal functioning, and wellness.
Through my tailored therapeutic dialogue, I help clients to help themselves build on their strengths and attain personal goals.
Specialties
- Anger management
- Court-related counselling
- Sports therapy
- Couples + relationships
- Addiction
- Workplace issues