I believe there is wisdom and strength within each of us. Therapy can offer a space to reconnect with those parts of ourselves, understand what may have gotten in the way, and move forward with greater self-trust and compassion.
Therapy for anxiety, people-pleasing, and boundary struggles in Burlington & across Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist offering compassionate support online across Ontario and in Burlington
Hi, I’m Cierra DoCouto
I’m a Registered Psychotherapist based in Burlington, Ontario, offering individual therapy in person and virtually across Ontario.
I believe our patterns are rarely random. The ways we think, feel, and respond often developed in response to our experiences and may have once helped us cope, connect, or feel safe. In therapy, I help clients become curious about these patterns, understand where they came from, and develop greater self-compassion rather than judgment.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and integrative, drawing from ACT, CBT, mindfulness, somatic approaches, and parts-informed work. Together, we can explore your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and patterns while creating space for new ways of responding that feel more aligned with who you are and what matters to you.
You don't need to have everything figured out before starting. We can begin from where you are.
Beyond the therapy room…
When I’m not in session, you’ll likely find me teaching hot Pilates (one of my favourite ways to recharge) or at home being bossed around by my cat, Chai. I’m a proud animal lover through and through!
My Approach: Gentle, Trauma-Informed, and Centered on You
At Guiding You Counselling and Psychotherapy, my goal is to create a space where you feel seen, respected, and emotionally safe. I take a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, which means therapy moves at your pace — without judgment or pressure — as we explore your experiences and create space for meaningful change.
I believe our patterns are rarely random. The ways we think, feel, and respond often developed in response to our experiences and may have once helped us cope, connect, protect ourselves, or feel safe. Therapy can help us understand these patterns with curiosity and compassion, rather than judgment.
I don’t believe you need to be “fixed.” Instead, therapy can be a space to reconnect with yourself, strengthen self-trust, and move toward a life that feels more aligned with who you are and what matters to you.
How I Can Support You
Understanding Relationship Challenges
We can explore patterns in romantic, family, or friendship relationships and how they may influence the way you relate to yourself and others. Together, we can work toward greater self-awareness, clearer communication, and a stronger sense of self.
Building Self-Worth & Confidence
If you feel stuck, disconnected from yourself, or unsure of your own voice, therapy can provide space to recognize your strengths, build self-trust, and reconnect with your inner wisdom.
Creating Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are an important part of caring for yourself and your relationships. We can explore what makes boundaries difficult and develop compassionate, practical ways to communicate your needs while staying connected to yourself.
Cultivating Self-Compassion
Therapy isn’t about fixing something that is broken. It can be an opportunity to understand yourself more deeply, process difficult experiences, and develop a kinder relationship with yourself.
Credentials & Experience
I am a Registered Psychotherapist in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO #17131) and a professional member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and a Bachelor’s in Social Psychology with a minor in Sociology from McMaster University. I have completed formal training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with additional training in somatic therapy and relational trauma, including emotional abuse, gaslighting, and narcissistic relationship dynamics.
Therapy in Burlington & Online Across Ontario
I offer secure online therapy to clients across Ontario, as well as in-person therapy from my private, welcoming office in Burlington.
Whether we meet online or in person, my goal is to provide a space where you can slow down, explore what you’re experiencing, and feel supported as you navigate change.
Start Your Therapy Journey
You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. We can begin with where you are.
I offer a free, no-pressure 20-minute consultation so you can ask questions, share what brings you to therapy, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
I look forward to connecting with you.