Get the counselling support you deserve.
Find the road towards a healthier life with our professional counselling services in Canada.
You. But better.
We all aim to be our best. Sometimes, a little help is all we need.
My name is Maria Atherton, RPC-C, and I bring over 30 years of combined personal and professional experience to my work as a clinical counselor. As the founder of Hidayah Counselling, I offer a supportive and results-oriented approach to therapy, grounded in evidence-based practice and a deep commitment to client care. With over 13 years of specialized experience working with children, youth, adults, and families—including those with neurodivergent profiles such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and PDA.
I also support clients facing a wide range of emotional, relational, and life challenges. My work is informed by Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), and I draw from modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy, Faith-Based Therapy, and trauma-informed care.
I am dedicated to helping clients create lasting change by developing personalized wellness plans that reflect their goals, values, and strengths. Whether you are navigating a difficult life transition, seeking greater emotional balance, or looking for support in relationships, I offer both in-person and virtual sessions tailored to meet your needs.
Types of Therapy
- Coaching
- Cognitive Behavioural (CBT)
- Culturally Sensitive
- Experiential Therapy
- Family / Marital
- I do see clients with PTSD and other Trauma.
- I work from a trauma informed basis.
- Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
- Multicultural
- Narrative
- Person-Centered
- Relational Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
- Somatic
- Strength-Based
Guiding Your Path to Healing
"As a registered RPC-C with the Canadian Professional Counsellor Association, I am also registered with Telus E-Claims so that my Clients can more easily submit their therapy invoices for reimbursement. I also accept E-Transfer payments.
I bring to you over 30 years of life experience through my professional careers, marriage and raising a family in helping others to become the best versions of themselves; to learn how to heal, grow personally, find their resilience, their strengths, talents and discover their best selves."
About Hidayah Counselling
Welcome to Hidayah Counselling. I am a registered professional counsellor with an RPC-C designation from the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association, offering services to individuals, families, and couples virtually, over the phone and in-person.
In addition to decades of professional, life, family, and marital experience, I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities to meet the unique needs of each client. My approach includes Family Systems Therapy to enhance interactions within the family unit, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help change negative thought patterns and behaviors through structured, goal-oriented techniques.
Narrative Therapy plays a crucial role in my practice, encouraging clients to reframe and rewrite their personal stories for a more empowering narrative. I also emphasize Non-Violent Communication to resolve conflicts and build empathetic understanding. Mindfulness-Based Therapy is another key component, incorporating mindfulness practices to help clients focus on the present moment, reducing stress, and improving emotional regulation.
In creating a supportive environment, I utilize Person-Centered Therapy, allowing clients to explore their feelings and achieve personal growth. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) helps clients find solutions in the present and explore future possibilities, rather than dwelling on past problems. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is used to strengthen emotional bonds and attachment between partners or family members by understanding and transforming negative interaction patterns.
I also use research-based interventions to improve relationship stability and satisfaction by enhancing communication, conflict management, and emotional connection. Understanding and responding to the effects of all types of trauma, I practice Trauma-Informed Counseling, creating a safe environment, building trust, and empowering clients while being sensitive to their trauma history and avoiding re-traumatization.
Additionally, I offer Faith-Based Counseling, integrating spiritual beliefs and practices into the therapeutic process to address clients' emotional and psychological needs through the lens of their faith.
At Hidayah Counselling, I am committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where clients can find healing, growth, and empowerment. I take a holistic and intersectional approach to each Client’s circumstances and needs. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward emotional and relational well-being.
Are You Ready For the Next Step? Contact Us Today.
Please email us with any questions or to book a consultation