Meet the Team!
This work cannot be done alone & this team is a vital part of Oru Kutty Community & 10oclockjoefi. Each individual brings unique perspectives to inform the work being done. If you would like to join this incredible team, scroll down to the bottom for instructions!
Registered Clinical Counsellor
Erin specializes in trauma therapy & play therapy. She takes a holistic, collaborative approach to care—rooted in cultural sensitivity, attachment-based principles, & trauma-informed practice. Erin draws from a variety of therapeutic models, including CBT, Somatic Therapy, Art Therapy, & DBT, to meet each client where they are. She believes that healing happens in relationship—with ourselves, with others, with animals, & with the world around us.
Fun fact: She is a photographer & illustrator who finds joy in being out in nature with her dog, & exploring new recipes.
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hareesma is passionate about de-stigmatizing mental health in South Asian communities & supporting clients as they reclaim their stories, build emotional resilience, & reconnect with what matters most. She brings a deep understanding of the emotional complexity that comes with holding many roles—whether as a parent, partner, caregiver, or professional. She offers virtual therapy in English & Tamil or in-person therapy in Barrie, Ontario!
Fun fact: She can laugh for hours at the same joke—joy, connection, & humour are a big part of how she shows up in life & in her work.
Trauma Therapist
Malar is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors & Canadian Certified Counsellor, who holds a MA in Counselling Psychology. She is a queer Tamil trauma therapist who brings lived experience, deep care, & cultural grounding to her work. They support folks navigating trauma, identity, & systemic harm through a warm, collaborative approach. You can connect with her for virtual or in-person counselling through Haven Wellness Collective.
Fun fact: Malar has Chetti Melaka heritage & speaks conversational Tamil & Malay!
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Sherani can provide mental health services to those located within Alberta. She is an only child & the daughter of Sri Lankan Tamil immigrants, with a deep commitment to BIPOC mental health—especially for those navigating the parenting journey. Her approach is grounded in cultural understanding, compassion, & collaboration, & she’s passionate about supporting clients in building lives that feel rooted, intentional, & truly their own.
You can connect with her for a free consultation or book with her through the BIPOC Healing Centre.
Research & Knowledge Translator
Nithyla is an undergraduate student at the University of Waterloo, pursuing a BSc in both Health Sciences & Psychology. Bridging these disciplines, she is passionate about addressing health outcomes that are shaped by systemic barriers. She is dedicated to supporting the Tamil diaspora by promoting culturally responsive care, & advocating for greater visibility, health equity & research. Becoming part of the team is both a continuation of this commitment & a meaningful way to apply her research background.
Fun fact: She loves creative pursuits like singing & painting & is currently learning to crochet!
Communications & Engagement Associate
Ashwini is a Sri Lankan Tamil radio host & recent MBA graduate based in Canada. With roots in storytelling, research, & community work, she is passionate about creating space for honest, intergenerational conversations within Tamil & immigrant communities—especially around gender, identity, & healing. Her work is deeply grounded in cultural reflection, curiosity, & care, whether she's behind the mic or writing about systemic inequalities. You can find her hosting Vazhadha Vazhkai (The Unlived Life) on CiTR 101.9 FM, where she explores the beauty, pressure, & contradictions of diasporic life.
Fun fact: She describes herself as someone “doing whatever feels meaningful”—& that’s exactly the kind of life she’s building.
Business Development Intern
Ashwin is an international student at SFU, currently pursuing a BA in Economics, with a minor in Business. He grew up in Chennai near the famous Marina Beach. His keen eye for identifying & pursuing business growth opportunities has been helping develop Oru Kutty Community & 10oclockjoefi.
Fun fact: He is a talented cook!
Tamil-Language Translator
Aathi is an international student at SFU, currently pursuing a BSc in Computer Science. He calls Kandy home & is passionate about preserving the Tamil language. As part of this effort, he translates English & Tanglish content into Tamil for Oru Kutty Community & 10oclockjoefi.
Fun fact: He can perform magic tricks with cards!
Personal Trainer & Puppenmacher
Lola is a certified personal trainer & she is working on a specialization in prenatal & postpartum with the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). She holds a BA in Psychology, just like Joefin. Beyond fitness, she’s an avid traveler who loves exploring new places with the best puppy in the world, Echo. Lola values mental wellbeing & strives to create inclusive, engaging fitness experiences for all. She will provide in-person services in Halifax, Canada & virtual services everywhere else!
Fun fact: She’s an incredible dollmaker & will be making dolls for doula clients!
Join our team!
Email me (joefin.m.peter@gmail.com) with
1) a cover letter outlining your interests & future aspirations,
2) & your resume with "talents" or favourite experiences.
