Therapy Methods
Irina Balabanova
Specialties & Expertise
Populations
Therapy Methods
Therapeutic Approach & Specialties
Irina takes a collaborative, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to psychotherapy. Her work is influenced by Narrative Therapy, mindfulness practices, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and current insights from neuroscience. She also draws from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) when helpful in supporting clients’ goals.
Irina has extensive experience supporting individuals facing complex mental health challenges, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. She has worked closely with veterans, military members, and first responders and understands the unique pressures that can come with service, operational stress, and identity transitions. She also supports individuals navigating high-conflict separation and the challenges of parenting through separation.
In her work with couples and families, Irina draws on narrative and solution-focused approaches to help people better understand relationship patterns, reconnect with shared values, and move toward more preferred ways of relating.
Professional & Academic Background
Irina is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 16 years of experience providing psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and clinical assessment across community, academic, and specialized mental health settings. She holds a Master of Education in Counselling from the University of Ottawa and is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Alongside her clinical practice, she has held roles as a clinical supervisor, clinical lead, and clinical manager, supporting the development of therapists and counselling students and contributing to the delivery of high-quality mental health services.
Her professional experience includes work in community counselling agencies, university counselling services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and court-related work through the Office of the Children’s Lawyer. This breadth of experience has provided a strong understanding of the complex personal, relational, and systemic factors that often shape people’s lives and relationships.
Why They Chose This Work
Irina believes therapy works best when people feel safe enough to speak honestly about what is difficult in their lives. Her approach is grounded in the understanding that lasting change often emerges through thoughtful reflection, new perspectives, and the ability to make meaning of difficult experiences. Rather than relying on a single model of therapy, Irina takes an integrative approach, drawing from a range of therapeutic frameworks and adapting them to the needs, circumstances, and goals of each person she works with. This flexible and individualized way of working allows therapy to remain responsive, practical, and relevant to the unique situations people bring into the room.
Outside the Office
Outside of the office, Irina is drawn to challenge, adventure, and time in nature. She spends much of her free time mountain biking, dirt biking, horseback riding, skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding—activities that bring a sense of exploration and freedom outdoors. She also enjoys creative inspiration through art and music.
