Vino Thayalan, MACP, RP (Qualifying)

About Vino

I’m glad you’re here. Knowing firsthand how hard it can be to reach out, I commend you for taking this first step, for leading with courage and breaking the stigma around mental health. As a second-generation Sri Lankan Tamil woman in Toronto, I approach my work from an understanding of acculturation stress, intergenerational dynamics, identity, and family relationships. I deeply respect the resilience people possess and consider it a privilege to support each of my clients as they reconnect with their strengths and move toward lives that feel more grounded, authentic, and aligned with who they are.

I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace. Using evidence-based approaches, I help people gain new perspectives, build self-compassion, and move toward healing. I also integrate mindfulness and somatic techniques when helpful, to support mind-body awareness, strengthen coping skills, and foster meaningful, lasting change.

If any part of this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out – you can book a session or a free consultation using the links on this page. I know taking the first step can feel vulnerable, but you don’t need to have everything figured out before connecting; I’m happy to answer your questions, to explore whether we might be a good fit, or to otherwise help guide you toward the right support for your needs.

Vino’s Story

I grew up surrounded by a family, community, and culture that deeply valued connection, yet often carried significant stigma around mental health. From an early age, I learned the importance of showing up for others, while also noticing how difficult it could be to speak openly about emotional struggles. These experiences shaped my curiosity about the human mind and initially led me toward a path in behavioural research.

After a number of lab positions and internships, I realized that while research helped me understand people, I felt most fulfilled when working with people. I was drawn to building meaningful connections, listening to stories, and walking alongside others through moments of uncertainty and change. This pull toward relational work ultimately guided me to become a therapist.

Being invited into clients’ lives is something I hold with deep gratitude. Witnessing courage, resilience, healing, and growth—often in the face of profound challenges—continues to inspire me and renews my commitment to this work. Each therapeutic relationship reminds me why I chose this path: to create space for understanding, connection, and meaningful change.

Therapy with Vino

Therapy with me is collaborative, gentle, and catered to your needs. We’ll start by getting to know your story, your relationships, and what’s bringing you in. From there, we will explore your concerns in more depth, notice patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and body, and clarify what you hope to gain from therapy. Finally, we will set goals together and start working toward meaningful, sustainable change—all at a pace that feels right for you.