Meet Our YSS TEAM

Lauren Janusauskas
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Lauren Janusauskas

Hi! My name is Lauren (she/her), and I am an intern completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University under the supervision of Dr. Jennifer Lewy. I am currently a student member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). My approach is grounded in Humanistic, person-centered values, with an emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and experiences in a way that feels supportive and manageable for you.

I bring experience from my work in social services supporting individuals living with mental health challenges and navigating systemic barriers. This has shaped my commitment to meeting individuals where they are at, using trauma-informed practice, recognizing the broader contexts that impact their lives, and supporting them in accessing their strengths and resilience.

I take an eclectic approach, adapting my approach to best fit your needs and goals. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate challenges, foster self-understanding, and move toward healing and growth.

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Dr. Saba Hajizadeh
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Dr. Saba Hajizadeh

Dr. Hajizadeh specializes in psychological, psychoeducational, and personality assessment for adults. She conducts comprehensive evaluations to better understand an individual’s cognitive, emotional, behavioural, and personality functioning, with the goal of clarifying diagnoses and guiding clinical, academic, or workplace recommendations.

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Dr. Jalisa Gittens
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Dr. Jalisa Gittens

Dr. Jalisa has over a decade of experience working with children and youth. She earned her doctorate from McGill University’s School/Applied Child Psychology program and is a member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec (OPQ).

She has worked in various public and private sector settings. In her private practice, her expertise includes assessing learning disabilities, social-emotional and behavioural challenges, attention deficit disorder with/without hyperactivity, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities/ developmental delays in children, adolescents, and young adults.

Dr. Jalisa uses evidence-based approaches to offer personalized assessments and practical recommendations, helping clients reach their full potential. Jalisa takes a warm and collaborative approach, aiming to foster a safe environment and facilitate the assessment process.

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Dr. Rachel Downey
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Dr. Rachel Downey

Hi! I’m Dr. Rachel Downey, a clinical neuropsychologist with a PhD from Concordia University. I have specialized training in the assessment of ADHD, learning disabilities, and neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, and epilepsy. 

I have completed training in neuropsychology across several hospitals in Montreal, Ontario, and Winnipeg, including the Montreal General HospitalAllan Memorial InstituteBaycrestOntario Shores Centre for Mental HealthHealth Sciences Centre, and the PanAm Concussion clinic.

My clinical work is informed by a strong research background, with a particular interest in dementia and cognitive aging. My doctoral research focused on how cognitive, sensory, and motor changes interact in aging, and how these processes can be improved through targeted interventions. I also hold a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Toronto, where I conducted concussion research with varsity athletes. 

I’m committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based assessments tailored to each individual’s needs. If you want help identifying potential factors contributing to your cognitive difficulties and ways to improve your everyday functioning, I’d be happy to be a part of your journey! 

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Isabella Gavanski, M.A.
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Isabella Gavanski, M.A.

My name is Isabella, and I am an psychometrician under the supervision of Dr. Moire Stevenson and Dr. Jennifer Lewy, completing my PhD in School/Applied Child Psychology at McGill University. 

I have extensive experience working with children and families across educational and clinical contexts. Clinically, I have conducted psychological and psychoeducational assessments for learning disabilities, social-emotional and behavioural challenges, attention difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities/ developmental delays in children, adolescents, and young adults.

I have completed two year-long internal practicums at the McGill Psychoeducational and Counselling Clinic, where I provided comprehensive psychoeducational assessments for challenges such as inattention and hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, and learning difficulties. I am currently completing a part-time internship with the English Montreal School Board, where I am further developing my skills in assessment and intervention.

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Lea Fhima
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Lea Fhima

Hi there!

My name is Lea, and I am an intern completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University under the supervision of Dr. Jennifer Lewy, psychologist.

I practice from a person-centered approach, which means I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace, with empathy and genuine understanding at the heart of our work together.

Most of my experience has been working with vulnerable families navigating difficult circumstances, including those experiencing violence and trauma. I've also worked extensively with individuals facing burnout and work-related stress, helping them find balance, set boundaries, and reconnect with their sense of well-being. 

I'm committed to supporting you through whatever challenges you're facing, and I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth.

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