Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Zahra Nafar, Director of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling, located in Ottawa, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a full-service mental health clinic located in Ottawa, Toronto, and Kingston, ON.
Tell us about yourself
I am the owner and Director of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling; I established the clinic to provide quality mental health care in our community and cultivate mental health awareness. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). My academic training includes undergraduate degrees from Carleton University in Computer Science and Mathematics (2004) and Integrated Science (2006). A passion for the human brain led me to my Masters and Ph.D. studies in Neuroscience at the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Medicine in 2007.
My fascination with human behaviour and psychology culminated in my completion of a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I actively contribute towards enhancing mental health resources for men and women in the fields of Defence, Security, Intelligence (i.e., DND, VAC, RCMP, CSIS, and CSE), and First Responders. I am a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, an associate with the American Psychological Association, and a professional member of the European Society of Traumatic Stress Studies.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Providing accessible, inclusive, and compassionate mental health care in Ontario through 3 clinics in 3 major cities.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Work-life balance and the ability to prioritize the 'joie de vivre' part of life while creating a successful business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do what you know how to do. Do not take on something that you do not have expertise in.
- Do your market research well.
- Hire the right people to help you.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://yourtherapist.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OTTAWATHERAPY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourtherapistottawa/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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