Krupal Bhagat
Occupational Therapist/Psychotherapist · Master's (McMaster University, 2020)
Member of College of Occupational therapists of Ontario (COTO)
Psychotherapy Provider (Occupational therapist)
Hi there! I am a Registered Occupational Therapist (OT) offering mental health OT and psychotherapy services. I identify as an Indian woman, raised in an immigrant Gujarati family in various parts of GTA. I recognize that intersections of identity can impact your healing journey, so I integrate culturally safe, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed approaches into my practice. Everyone deserves their story to be shared, and to feel heard and understood. I see my role as being a compassionate presence in your journey and co-creating a space of growth and safety.
Many folks wonder about the role of Occupational Therapists in mental health. ‘Occupation’ refers to any activity that you do (literally, any activity). It is an umbrella term for self-care, basic daily activities (e.g. showering, eating, sleep), chores, work, school, leisure, and social activities. Mental health is closely tied to our engagement in meaningful and purposeful activity. I usually refer to the activity as the mode of therapy in OT.
In my role, I work with you to figure out what is preventing you from living the life you want, while we work together to figure out how to overcome those barriers. For someone experiencing mental health challenges, these barriers are often linked to symptoms such as low mood, anxiety, fatigue, inability to concentrate, symptoms of trauma and/or negative self-talk. OT work may involve integrating coping skills, building routines, modifying the activity, exposure therapy, and/or changing your environment.
I believe that all of us carry inner wisdom, which holds the answers we seek. Our bodies carry our stories and our pain for us. Somewhere along the way, we stop listening to the messages our bodies send to us. In therapy, ‘the work’ is in building self-awareness, making space for parts of us that we’ve suppressed or denied, and replacing unhelpful patterns of behaviour. Therapy may feel uncomfortable; however, in this space of vulnerability, you may discover new ways of relating to yourself and those in your environment.
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Neuroscience, and English Literature at the University of Toronto, followed by a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at McMaster University. I began my OT journey in pediatrics before transitioning into adult mental health. I have experience supporting clients with:
– Anxiety,
– Post-traumatic stress,
– Grief and loss,
– Severe persistent mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder
– Adult ADHD (with a focus on organization, emotional regulation, and executive functioning)
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Grief and Loss Treatment. I also integrate concepts from internal family systems, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and attachment theory. I am passionate about expressive arts, journalling, and mindfulness, and incorporate these into my practice as needed.
When I’m not working, I can be found reading, spending time in nature, or painting.
I would be honored to walk alongside your healing journey. If you’d like to chat about whether we would be a good fit, or explore what our work together could look like, please reach out to me at therapywithkrupal@gmail.com for a free 20-minute consultation call. I am available on weekends and weekends, in person and virtually, and my rate is $140/hour. Occupational therapy services may be covered by your extended health benefit plan; however, I would encourage you to check with your provider regarding coverage.
Primary Practice Location
Healing Collective
2005 Danforth Avenue
Toronto, Ontario M4C 1J7
Phone: (647) 559-7916
Extended office hours: evenings, weekends
Years of Experience
4
Certifications
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
Grief and Loss Treatment Across the Lifespan
Progressive Goal Attainment Program
Publications
Danahy, K., Lizon, M., Wang, J., Hewitt-McVicker, K., Bhagat, K., & Malik, S. (2023). Reflections on culturally safer practices within community mental health: A care scenario. Occupational Therapy Now. Volume 26.1.
Bhagat, K., & King, S. (2021). Journal Partners: Two People, Two Journals, More Benefits. In Transformational Journaling for Coaches, Therapists, and Clients (pp. 251-256). Routledge.
Additional Language Competency
Gujarati