Lina Berrada
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Client Focus: Teens (16+), Adults, New to Canada, LGBTQ+
Modalities: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, Somatic, Existential Therapy
Common Concerns: Anxiety, Relationships and Break-ups, Life transitions, Stress and Burnout, Self-esteem, Confidence, Racial identity, Spirituality, Depression, Abuse and assault, Grief and Loss, Trauma
Areas of Practice: Anxiety, Depression, Self-exploration, Mental Performance
Languages: English and French
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about therapy or mental performance coaching?
I wish more people knew that therapy can be a powerful way to pause and reconnect with yourself—not just during crises, but as a proactive investment in growth. It’s a space where you are fully accepted without judgment, and where your thoughts, struggles, and dreams can be explored. This process isn’t just about healing—it’s about building resilience, strengthening your mindset, and moving toward what is truly meaningful in both your personal and professional life.
Who are you and what led you to this work?
I became a therapist because I am deeply passionate about listening, supporting, and helping people uncover more about themselves. My own experience with community theatre profoundly shaped how I approach my work—it taught me the power of creativity, empathy, and connection in human growth. That realization continues to inspire how I integrate creative and mindfulness-based techniques into therapy today.
What is your approach to therapy or mental performance coaching?
My approach is personalized and collaborative. I encourage self-exploration and reflection, helping clients gain deeper insights into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This process creates the clarity and momentum needed to move forward. I draw from creativity, mindfulness, and evidence-based strategies, which allows me to work flexibly with each client’s goals—whether that’s healing, developing resilience, or enhancing performance. I work in both English and French, and I take pride in creating an inclusive space for clients from diverse backgrounds.
What areas do you focus on?
• Anxiety and depression
• Self-esteem and confidence concerns
• Relationship challenges and intimacy issues
• Life transitions and adaptation
• Stress and burnout
• Performance psychology for athletes, executives, and artists
• Creativity and personal development
What types of clients do you typically work with?
I work with a diverse range of clients, including adults navigating life transitions, stress, or relationship difficulties. I also specialize in working with elite athletes, corporate executives, and professional artists. These individuals often perform in high-stakes environments, and I help them overcome mental blocks, strengthen resilience, and sustain high performance while maintaining balance and well-being.
How do you help clients overcome mental roadblocks and perform at their best?
I use a combination of insight-building, creativity, and practical strategies to help clients work through obstacles. For high performers, this often means addressing performance anxiety, managing stress under pressure, and developing tools for focus and confidence. Together, we build a mindset that supports adaptability, emotional intelligence, and sustainable success—whether on the playing field, in the boardroom, or on the stage.
What evidence-based methods or strategies do you use?
I integrate mindfulness-based approaches, creativity-informed techniques, and evidence-based strategies drawn from cognitive and reflective practices. This combination allows clients to better understand themselves while also developing practical skills to manage challenges and achieve their goals.
What can a client expect in their first session with you?
In our first session, you can expect a warm and collaborative conversation focused on what brings you in. I’ll invite you to share your goals, challenges, and story at your own pace. My role is to listen with empathy and curiosity, while also helping you begin to clarify what matters most and how we can work together to move toward it.
What makes your work at The Mental Game unique?
What makes my work unique is the way I integrate creativity with performance psychology. I understand the demands of performing at a high level, whether in sports, business, or the arts, and I bring both clinical expertise and real-world performance experience to the process. My approach combines self-exploration with actionable strategies, helping clients build confidence, resilience, and adaptability—so they can succeed not only in high-stakes environments but also in their broader lives.
Performance Interests
Outside of my professional work, I find joy and balance through creativity and movement. I love acting on stage, dancing, writing, and hiking in nature. As an amateur stage actor and classically trained dancer, I understand the discipline and perseverance required for high-level performance—insights I bring into my work with clients. I’m also currently working on my first novel, which keeps me connected to the dedication it takes to pursue long-term goals.
