Nalini Elisa Ramlal, PhD
Clinical Director & Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Life’s journey offers many things to be grateful for. However, we all face challenges throughout our lifetime that has the ability to affect our mental health. Having the right support can help us navigate these challenges. I hold an open, non-judgmental space to help you heal. Therapy goals differ from person to person. My treatment approach is therefore tailored to you, working collaboratively with you to help you reach your therapeutic goals. As your therapist, I hope to help you gain insight and self-awareness, leading you to live your most beautiful, authentic life.
My approach to therapy is holistic: having earned a doctoral degree in cognitive science, I have appreciation for evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. My master’s degree in philosophy has led me to further appreciate and incorporate existential and gestalt therapeutic techniques if it is right for the client. Ultimately, we will use the therapeutic techniques that work best in your healing. My specialties are in working with clients who are suffering from: addiction, depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, body image/self-esteem issues, racial and other forms of discrimination (e.g., sizeism, ageism), personal and professional relationship issues, and major life transitions. I also offer spiritual and faith-based counselling services.
You don’t need to be facing a challenge or have a mental health diagnosis to engage in therapy. Many people want to improve their overall quality of life by getting to know themselves better (becoming more self-aware) and understand the deeper meaning and purpose of their lives.
If this sounds like you, don’t hesitate to contact me. I have worked with many people to help them get realigned and live their most authentic life!
I offer free 15 minute consultations. Please contact me to book your consultation.
My focus is on helping clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, work-related and personal stress, negative thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours, issues related to relationships, and self-esteem. My approach is integrative, drawing from different psychotherapeutic frameworks, implementing the approach and techniques that are best suited for you!
I also work as a psychology and philosophy professor, and teach a variety of courses to undergraduate and graduate students.
Additional Education and Training
PhD, Cognitive Science, achieved in 2017
Master of Arts, Philosophy, achieved in 2012
In addition to my master’s degree in counselling psychology, I also hold graduate-level degrees in cognitive science and philosophy. Both fields have provided me the opportunity to view life in a fruitful and more meaningful way, while at the same time, providing me the academic resources to better understand multiple worldviews and perspectives, as well as the role of subjective experience and how our experiences shape the way we see the world.
Yoga Teacher Training (200-hr)
As a lifelong student of yoga, I decided to complete my 200-hour yoga teacher training in 2018. With it, I learned important elements of mindfulness meditation and self-compassion, which I often use as an approach with some clients. Research on the application and practice of mindfulness is valid and growing. Mindfulness-based courses, such as mindfulness-based stress-reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) have proven very effective for many.
Leanne Silva, BASc
Lead Researcher and Communications Advisor
I am a University of Guelph-Humber Alumni, having earned a Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Psychology and a certificate in Organizational Psychology in 2022. I am currently acquiring research and applied psychology experience in preparation for a future Master’s Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy. With a close, three-year collaboration with Dr. Ramlal, who served as both a teacher and thesis advisor, my undergraduate thesis delved into motivational factors and the interplay between social media and physical activity among undergraduates, which I continue to utilize through my volunteer work and daily life. Beyond academics and work, I find joy in exploring new workout classes, reading, traveling, and engaging in outdoor activities.
Gaganpreet Kaur
Clinical Administrative Assistant
I am a dedicated and passionate undergraduate student in psychology at the University of Guelph-Humber. Residing in Mississauga, Ontario, also known as the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, I am on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Psychology and plan to pursue a Master’s degree to further delve into my areas of interest, which include addiction, growth mindset, and mind-body healing practices. My previous fundraising role for the David Suzuki Foundation (2021) enhanced my empathy and collaboration skills while volunteering at the Malton Gurdwara (2022) fostered my compassion and open-mindedness. Leading a Kid’s Workshop at Home Depot (2023) in Brampton developed my leadership and teamwork abilities.
In academic research, I assisted Dr. Adam Sandford at the University of Guelph-Humber (2023) on a face recognition study with forensic applications, gaining valuable insights into cognitive psychology. At the University of Waterloo (2024), I worked with Dr. Itier using ERP and EEG techniques to study early face processing, immersing myself in face perception literature and mastering participant preparation and data debugging.
I also have clinical experience as an administrator at CBT Psychology (2024) as well as my role here at Rooted and Rising Therapy (2024). Proficient in SPSS and fluent in English, Punjabi, and Tagalog, I have received a partial scholarship for academic excellence in data management. My diverse experiences, combined with my academic achievements and compassionate outlook, position me as a promising candidate for advanced studies and future professional endeavours in clinical psychology.