Moving to a new country is a journey filled with excitement, hope, and sometimes, uncertainty. As a newcomer to Canada, I had the unique challenge of not only setting into a new culture but also transitioning from a career as an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapist to becoming a psychotherapist. For anyone curious about being an immigrant to Canada, here’s a glimpse into my journey and some lessons I’ve learned along the way.
One of the first experiences newcomers encounter is adapting to Canada’s cultural norms. Canadians are known for their politeness, a high level of organization, and respect for personal space and privacy. While these traits help create a welcoming atmosphere, they can also feel unfamiliar, especially if coming from a more collectivist or direct communication culture just as I do.
In many cultures, mental health is still a taboo topic, often misunderstood or stigmatized. Many immigrant communities face additional challenges, such as limited access to culturally appropriate mental health services or language barriers. One of my missions as an immigrant psychotherapist is to advocate for greater mental health awareness and accessibility within these communities.
By offering culturally sensitive care, I hope to bridge the gap between traditional views on mental health and the importance of psychological well-being. I’m committed to reducing stigma and helping clients understand that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is witnessing the diversity of human experience and expression. Each client brings a unique story, shaped by their culture, family, and personal journey. As an immigrant therapist, I have a deep appreciation for this diversity, and I strive to help clients honour their backgrounds while empowering them to embrace the future.
Being able to explore different cultural perspectives with my clients allows me to expand my understanding and keeps me open to new ways of seeing the world. This has made my practice richer and more fulfilling, reminding me daily that diversity is a strength.
Adjusting to these differences takes time, but connecting with other immigrants or support groups can make the transition smoother. Libraries, community centres, and immigrant settlement organizations are great starting points, often offering workshops on Canadian culture, employment advice, and social events where newcomers can make connections.
Every immigrant brings something unique to Canada, shaping the nation’s cultural fabric in return. Embracing this perspective of mutual growth can be empowering. As an immigrant, your story adds to Canada’s identity, and your contributions—whether in work, art, volunteerism, or community-building—enrich the society around you. Remember that while the journey has its challenges, each step is a part of creating a new life, full of opportunities, resilience, and transformation. As I work with more and more clients, I’m proud to be an immigrant psychotherapist, helping those transition into Canada, and focusing on mental health help.
About Shraddha Shukla, RP (Qualifying), Author
Shraddha is an ABA therapist transitioning into a psychotherapy career, currently completing her masters of counselling psychology at Yorkville University. She works with children and adults, helping with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, and life transitions, and speaks English, Gujarati, and Hindi. To learn more about Shraddha and to book a free meet-and-greet session, please click here.
