Marla Pender
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Are you looking for a space where you can make sense of your experience without judgment or pressure? Whether you’re facing a life transition, navigating disability or caregiving, or feeling the weight of working within broken systems, you don’t have to do it alone.
I offer therapy for individuals who are often left trying to “figure it out” in environments that weren’t built with their needs in mind. My approach is warm, inclusive, trauma-informed, and grounded in the belief that you already hold the capacity for healing, growth, and clarity. Together, we’ll explore what matters to you, uncover strengths that may have gone unnoticed, and find ways forward that feel authentic and empowering.
My Areas of Interest
Young people in transition
Are you a young person navigating identity, purpose, disability, neurodivergence, or the pressure to have it all figured out? I specialize in supporting youth and young adults facing stress, self-doubt, family conflict, big emotions, or questions about identity and belonging. I bring over 20 years of experience working with teens and young adults as an adult support person, community developer, and therapist. I have a strong foundation in youth development, youth-adult partnerships, and strengths-based approaches. If you’re looking for a therapist who sees your potential and honors your voice, I’d be honored to work with you.
Disability, neurodivergence, exceptionality, & caregiving
Do you, or does someone you love, live with exceptionality, disability, neurodivergence, or chronic illness? Are you a caregiver feeling stretched thin, unseen, or stuck between roles? With more than 15 years of experience in accessibility and accommodations, disability advocacy, and supporting people with a wide range of physical, developmental, and learning disabilities, I am sensitive to the emotional, physical, and spiritual toll of living in an ableist world. I offer a disability- and neuro-affirming space where all aspects of your identity and experience are welcomed. I also support youth and adult caregivers who are carrying immense emotional and physical labor. This is your space, too.
Burnout & navigating complex systems
Are you working within a complex workplace and feeling burned out, stuck, or disillusioned? Or are you simply exhausted by trying to access support in systems that don’t seem to make space for you and your needs? I specialize in helping people make sense of and survive within (or beyond) these systems. With over 20 years of experience working within and helping others to navigate complex systems and bureaucracies, I bring a systems-thinking lens to therapy. We can collaborate around centering your values, restoring a sense of agency, and exploring new paths forward that reflect who you are and not just what the system expects of you.
My approach
I take an integrative, client-centered approach that’s responsive to your unique needs and goals. I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychology, and a Common Factors Approach. Humor, creativity, and curiosity are woven throughout my work. I strive to create a space where all parts of you are welcomed, including the ones that may have been masked or camouflaged to survive.
Credentials & background
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I have a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, a Master of Arts degree in Community Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Saskatchewan.
In addition to my clinical training, I bring extensive experience from decades of work in community-based programs, youth engagement, disability and accessibility services, and systems navigation. This background deeply informs how I approach therapy: with care, context, and a commitment to social justice.
Let’s connect
You deserve support that respects your lived experience and empowers your voice. Whether you’re navigating identity, caregiving, disability, exceptionality, burnout, or simply want to feel more grounded in who you are, I’m here to walk with you. I offer flexible scheduling and a free 15-minute consultation to explore whether we’re a good fit.
