Maurissa Hastings MSW, RSW

Maurissa Hastings

, MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Windsor

Reaching out for therapy can feel like an intimidating first step. You may be dealing with pain, stress, or patterns that feel hard to change, and it can seem like you’re supposed to handle it all on your own. In our work together, my aim is to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can bring your whole story—your struggles, your hopes, and everything in between.

Through my own lived experience with mental health and addictions, and through sitting with hundreds of stories of emotional pain, grief, disappointment, and self-criticism, I’ve learned that living well is an art, not a straight line. I’ve been in recovery for many years and practice mindfulness daily. This helps me “get it from the inside” when things feel messy, complicated, or overwhelming. Together, we’ll look for ways of coping and growing that feel true to you, not a one-size-fits-all plan.

I specialize in supporting people through many kinds of life challenges. This can include anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, insomnia, addiction and recovery, relationship and interpersonal conflict, and grief and loss. My background in justice and community mental health has given me experience with people from many walks of life, including those who are neurodivergent, part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Whoever you are and wherever you’re starting from, you are welcome here.

A big part of my work is helping people rebuild a sense of safety after trauma and chronic stress. Together, we’ll notice unhelpful thoughts and emotions, understand where they come from, and find new ways to respond. I use ideas and tools from Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and mindfulness. In simple terms, that means we’ll be telling and retelling your story in a kinder way, building practical coping skills, and making room for the feelings that show up. We’ll always adapt our work to your needs and your pace.

Because I am neurodivergent myself, I know that mindfulness and coping strategies don’t look the same for everyone. Some people need movement. Some need structure. Some need creativity. I look forward to helping you develop strategies that make sense for your nervous system, your attention, and your life. In our first sessions, we’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what safety looks like for you, and what you hope will change. Most sessions will include a brief check-in about how therapy feels, what’s helpful, and what we might adjust, so you don’t have to guess whether this is working for you.

Outside of therapy, I’m grateful to be a mother. I love exploring nature with my daughter and our dogs, and spending time hiking, camping, gardening, or doing anything that gets us into fresh air. I also enjoy playing the piano, painting, writing, and listening to old records. These parts of my life help me stay grounded and creative in the therapy room.

I’m deeply appreciative that you are considering me as a companion on your mental health journey. If you feel we might be a good fit, I would be honoured to walk alongside you as you face life’s challenges and move toward a life that feels more hopeful and your own.

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