Therapy Formats

Virtual

In-Person

Populations

Children

Adolescents

Adults

Appointment Times

Daytime

Evening

Language

English

Lucija Dorvak

Registered Psychotherapist 

Education:
Masters in Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Spirituality from Saint Paul University; BA in History from Carleton University

As a fully registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), I continue to work under the supervision of clinical psychologist and director, Dr. Jessica Kurta. This approach ensures that our standard of care is upheld by both of our professional perspectives as well as our ongoing commitment to the clinic’s collaborative culture.

I provide in-person and online therapy to children (ages 8+), adolescents and adults.

Welcome — this is the first step toward a new chapter in your story.

Starting therapy can feel a bit like opening that cluttered drawer at home—the one where everything seems to end up. Just looking inside can feel overwhelming, and you might wonder where to begin. You don’t have to sort through it alone. Therapy offers a space to slow down, make sense of what’s there, and begin creating meaningful change.

Hi, I’m Lucija (pronounced Lu-tzi-ya). As a therapist, I understand the courage it takes to begin this process. Over the years, I’ve learned that therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all—it needs to be attuned to your unique context, culturally considerate, and adaptable to your needs.

At Sherwood, I support children, teens, and adults navigating challenges such as OCD, anxiety and panic, trauma and (C-)PTSD, and experiences related to ADHD and autism. Many of the people I work with arrive feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. Over time, clients often begin to feel more grounded, develop practical tools for managing difficult moments, and reconnect with a greater sense of confidence and self-understanding.

Taking the first step can feel intimidating, but you don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. My role is to provide clear guidance, research-based care, and steady support as we work toward meaningful progress together.

A look into our journey together: pacing toward progress

Therapy with me begins with building trust and safety through an authentic therapeutic relationship, so you can show up as you are. From there, we focus on identifying what matters most to you and developing practical strategies to support lasting change.

I take a holistic, trauma-informed, and integrative approach, drawing on your strengths while addressing the areas you want to develop. My style is warm, relatable, and direct, and I often blend thoughtful reflection with humour and healthy challenge. Together, we’ll work at a pace that encourages growth while still feeling manageable.

I draw on evidence-based approaches which include CBT, ERP, and ACT, while also integrating attachment-informed and creative approaches when helpful. Therapy is always tailored to your individual goals and experiences.

I tend to work best with clients who—though they may feel nervous about the process—feel ready to begin exploring change.

Creativity as a cornerstone of change

I see creativity as the courage to notice possibilities where walls seem to stand—to experiment, take risks, and step into the unknown. Growth rarely happens by doing everything perfectly; it often emerges through curiosity, flexibility, and the willingness to try something new.

In therapy, I invite clients to stretch and discover what works for them, embracing the leaps and stumbles that growth sometimes requires—while knowing they are supported and not navigating those moments alone. Real confidence and resilience develop not from avoiding difficulty, but from learning how to move through it.

Supporting parents and families

Parents, I understand how demanding the world can feel right now. Between social pressures and the constant stream of information online, it can sometimes feel as though parenting must be flawless in order for children to thrive.

In my work with families, I focus on helping parents move away from perfection and toward authenticity, flexibility, and compassion–for themselves and their children. When young people see adults model imperfection while continuing to grow and take accountability, it gives them permission to do the same. This helps children and teens build the confidence to try new things, take healthy risks, and develop resilience in the face of challenges.

My path into therapy
My journey into psychotherapy has included diverse roles that deepened my understanding of both people and the systems meant to support them. Before entering clinical practice, I worked in financial administration at the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Medicine, supporting resident physicians. I later completed clinical training in a community-based university setting serving
clients with diverse needs, and went on to hold leadership and consulting roles supporting the training of emerging therapists.

These experiences strengthened my belief that meaningful change happens through authentic relationships, thoughtful collaboration, and practical steps forward.

At the core of my work is a deep respect for the complexity of being human—and the belief that even in difficult moments, growth and hope remain possible.

Outside of the therapy room
Outside of my work, you will often find me enjoying time in cafés, out in nature, or exploring new creative pursuits. Recently this has included experimenting in the kitchen, learning languages, and boxing—each reminding me that growth often comes through curiosity and imperfect attempts. I also love travelling and experiencing music/dance, food, and culture from around the world.

“Self-awareness combined with action opens the door to real change.” — Yung Pueblo

More About Me