AJ Ware | Therapist | Shanti Psychotherapy

Meet AJ Ware

Registered Social Worker

MSW RSW

She/They

Connected 

With a previous career as a writer, performer and theatre producer, I have always been known as someone who makes connections. My value system is rooted in the power of human-to-human connection as a generative force for growth and happiness in our lives. I believe that every person has a story worth telling and that true healing happens through genuine connection- whether that’s through a meaningful conversation, shared laughter, or a moment of breakthrough. 

I am dedicated to the support of sexual identity and gender spectra, as these are often issues that are accompanied by feelings of isolation and pain. 

I can support children, youth and young adults with common issues such as overwhelm and anxiety, feelings of depression and trauma, navigating friendships and romantic relationships, improving sexual well-being, as well as parenting support, family therapy and couples therapy. 

Collaborative 

Working in theatre is necessarily collaborative, and that is what makes it transformative. I bring connective collaboration to my work with my clients, not out of habit but because I know that everyone in the room brings vital knowledge to the process. As collaborators, we can connect our understanding in ways that challenge you toward growth, accountability, and healing. I connect with warmth and laughter from a place of loving encouragement. 

In my sessions, I use eclectic, trauma-informed approaches, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Attachment work, Anti-colonial and anti-racist practices, Mindfulness, Arts-based practices, and Nature-based practices. 

About me! 

I am queer and gender fluid and immigrated to Toronto from the US in 2020. I live near High Park with my partner. I’m a step-parent to an awesome kid, and our family is rounded out with the world’s cutest dog, Demi! I find my happiness in connection to nature through gardening, cycling, sailing, camping, and digging my toes into any warm sand I can get to. I fill my cup by seeing live music with people I love and reading, and I really enjoy time spent doing textile arts like weaving, sewing, and embroidery. 

“You were not just born to center your entire existence on work and labour. You were born to heal, to grow, to be of service to yourself and community, to practice, to experiment, to create, to have space, to dream, and to connect.” 

― Tricia Hersey, Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto 

Please reach out to me for a 20-minute no-charge consultation to explore if we may collaborate and connect for a healthier you!

Men’s mental health is often shaped by silence. Many men are taught to “push through,” stay strong, or handle things on their own, even when something feels heavy inside.Struggling doesn’t mean you’re weak. Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, irritable, or exhausted doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human.
Mental health support isn’t about fixing you, it’s about having space to speak honestly, at your own pace, without judgment.Therapy support is available for men who want a supportive space to talk. Reach out to connect with Michael Chu, our men’s mental health expert for a free 20 minute consultation using the link in our bio or on our website - it’s okay to talk about it.#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealthawareness #mensmentalhealth #maletherapist

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Therapy can be a place to slow down and make sense of what’s beneath the surface.

Michael Chu, Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying), works with adults (18+), with a focus on men’s mental health. His work supports clients navigating anxiety, self-confidence, relationships, cultural identity, and life transitions.Michael brings a thoughtful, psychodynamic approach—helping clients explore patterns, emotions, and deeper self-understanding at their own pace. 💬🌱book a free 20-minute consultation using the link in our bio or on our website to learn more and see if working with michael feels like a good fit.#shantipsychotherapy #mensmentalhealth #psychodynamictherapy #adulttherapy #torontotherapy #mentalhealthsupport #therapyjourney

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Grounding techniques are tools that help regulate your nervous system by engaging your senses. When anxiety takes over, your body may go into “fight, flight, or freeze.”Bringing awareness to your surroundings helps signal to your brain that you are safe in this moment.Try this 5-4-3-2-1 method:
5 things you can see
4 things you can touch
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you can tasteSlow your breath between each one and allow your body to settle. ✨✨✨#grounding #anxietyrelief #mindfulness #mentalhealth #selfcare #mentalwellness #stressrelief #calm #therapytools #mindfulmoment #presentmoment #mentalhealthawareness #selfregulation

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