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About Renata
Welcome!
Hello, I am Renata Roma!
Thank you for visiting my website.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario, specializing in grief and anxiety. I provide compassionate support to children, adolescents, and adults navigating moments of loss, transition, and emotional distress. My approach is warm, evidence-based, and tailored to each person’s unique story.
Education to Expertise
My Academic & Professional Journey
I hold a Ph.D. in Child and Youth Studies from Brock University, a master’s in psychology from the Universidade de São Paulo, and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Saskatchewan, where I conducted research on mental health, addiction, and human–animal interactions. This background enriches my clinical work, helping me understand how relationships, with both people and animals, shape emotional well-being.
I am a Certified Pet Loss Grief Support Specialist through the American Institute of Healthcare Professionals. I’ve supported individuals coping with the deep pain of losing a beloved companion animal, an experience often misunderstood or minimized. I help clients honour their bond, process their grief, and gradually rebuild meaning after loss.
Beyond grief, I also specialize in anxiety treatment, particularly among children and youth. I integrate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Psychodynamic principles, offering personalized tools that foster self-understanding, resilience, and emotional regulation.
Person-Centered Approach
With over 15 years of experience as a psychologist in Brazil, I’ve learned that true healing begins with connection. My clinical philosophy is person-centred, rooted in empathy, authenticity, and respect. Whether working through loss, anxiety, or relational challenges, my goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their emotions and move toward balance and well-being.
My academic work continues to explore the human-animal bond and its relevance for emotional health, but my greatest passion lies in helping people, those who are grieving, those feeling anxious, and those simply seeking to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
Animal-Assisted Services
I’ve had the privilege of contributing to several academic publications that explore themes within mental health and the human-animal relationship, and my current research continues to examine the profound ways in which humans and animals interact, and how these bonds can play a powerful therapeutic role in people’s lives. These topics are at the heart of my ongoing studies and are a key component of my professional growth.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned exploring the human-animal relationship, though it reinforced something I already knew, is that CONNECTION COMES FIRST before any technique or intervention. Without establishing a true, authentic connection, it’s impossible to create meaningful change. Dogs, in their simplicity, taught me this in a powerful way. They don’t judge, they simply embrace each part of us, accepting us as we are. This taught me that acceptance and respect are the foundation of any positive connection, and this is core not only in my work, but also in my daily interactions.
Plans & Vision
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario, this website reflects my vision and the work I’m building. It’s a space to share information about the psychological support I offer and to explore how human–animal relationships can nurture emotional well-being, empathy, and healing.
I’ve always been deeply curious, both professionally and personally, which is why I keep reading, learning about new therapeutic approaches, and engaging in creative pursuits like photography, yoga, and music. These activities bring balance and inspiration, supporting both my professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Thank you for being here!
I invite you to explore my blog, engage with the content, and join me on this journey of growth and discovery. Your thoughts and feedback are always welcome!