Journey to Psychotherapy

The journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step.

About me

In Marina Ford, you will find a compassionate and knowledgeable integrative psychotherapist committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges and empowering you to reach your full potential. Learn more about her services here.

Have questions about how the process works and what you can expect?

Motivated to be Qualified

Marina Ford’s journey as an integrative psychotherapist is fuelled by her diverse academic background and rich life experiences. She holds registrations with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and is a proud member of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists (OACCPP).

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step. — Lao Tzu" *Change

Motivated to be Qualified

Marina Ford’s journey as an integrative psychotherapist is fuelled by her diverse academic background and rich life experiences. She holds registrations with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and is a proud member of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists (OACCPP).

Passion for growth

Her academic pursuits have taken her on a diverse path. With two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Toronto, one in Philosophy of Applied Life Science and the other in Parasitology and Insects as Vectors of Tropical Disease, Marina’s thirst for knowledge extended into Indigenous Studies, where she immersed herself in the culture’s historically relevant context.

“Learning never exhausts the mind. — Leonardo DaVinci"

Passion for growth

Her academic pursuits have taken her on a diverse path. With two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Toronto, the first a Bachelor of Science, which focused on Parasitology and Insects as Vectors of Tropical Disease. She began her second degree in her Honors Bachelors of Arts with a strong focus on Indigenous studies, ethics and spirituality.  

Marina’s thirst for knowledge extended into Indigenous Studies, where she immersed herself in the culture’s historically relevant context.

Seeing the need

But Marina’s passion for science was only part of her story. For two decades, she ventured into the skincare industry, even running her own storefront on Toronto’s renowned Queen Street West. It was during this time, as she encountered people from all walks of life and listened to their stories, that her interest in psychotherapy ignited.

 

“Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change. — Brene Brown”

Seeing the need

But Marina’s passion for science was only part of her story. For two decades, she ventured into the skincare industry, even running her own storefront on Toronto’s renowned Queen Street West. It was during this time, as she encountered people from all walks of life and listened to their stories, that her interest in psychotherapy ignited.

 

Refined her approach

In 2004, Marina embarked on a transformative journey at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto. This program not only equipped her with the skills to professionally address emotional challenges but also emphasized the power of experiential learning. By immersing herself in the process and developing self-awareness, Marina discovered the profound impact of experiences over mere words when working with others.

“Change is not a threat. It is an opportunity. — Seth Godin”

Refined her approach

In 2004, Marina embarked on a transformative journey at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto. This program not only equipped her with the skills to professionally address emotional challenges but also emphasized the power of experiential learning. By immersing herself in the process and developing self-awareness, Marina discovered the profound impact of experiences over mere words when working with others.

Pursued the Credentials

Fueling her passion further, Marina pursued a Master’s degree in Education through the Indigenous stream at York University, graduating in 2022. Armed with this extensive education and diverse background, Marina offers counseling services to clients facing complex issues such as PTSD, emotional crises, abandonment, self-esteem struggles, neglect, and the effects of physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Her expertise extends to concurrent disorders of mental health and addiction, ensuring comprehensive support for her clients.

A joyful life is an individual creation that cannot be copied from a recipe. — Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi”

Pursued the Credentials

Fueling her passion further, Marina pursued a master’s degree in Education through the indigenous stream at York University, graduating in 2022. Armed with this extensive education and diverse background, Marina offers counseling services to clients facing complex issues such as PTSD, emotional crises, abandonment, self-esteem struggles, neglect, and the effects of physical, mental, and sexual abuse. Her expertise extends to concurrent disorders of mental health and addiction, ensuring comprehensive support for her clients.

Connected her beliefs

Guided by a holistic philosophy, Marina acknowledges the interconnectedness of mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She facilitates the healing process by empowering individuals to discover their own truth and express it with confidence, fostering honest and compassionate communication.

“Realize that everything connects to everything else” – Leonardo DaVinci.”

Connected her beliefs

Guided by a holistic philosophy, Marina acknowledges the interconnectedness of mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She facilitates the healing process by empowering individuals to discover their own truth and express it with confidence, fostering honest and compassionate communication.

What clients say about Marina

Brianna
Restaurant Owner

Our sustainable farm-to-table restaurant really benefits from the hanging terrariums that are intermixed with the lighting throughout the ceiling. This subtle mission tie-in really shows our clientele what we care for most.

5/5
Jake & Sage
Oasis Branding

Our terradium experience was FANTASTIC. The entire process was so easy and smooth and we’re over the moon with the results. Our design firm looks great – our employees love it and our clients always have something to say!

5/5
Rochelle
Interior Designer

My clients were so thrilled with the terrarium wall that was installed in their penthouse. The wall created a unique focal area in their home and serves as a divider, they can enjoy the terrarium from both sides. It’s a big win all the way around.

5/5

Don't be fearful of the journey to wellness