I'm the founder of Barrie Anxiety Clinic, a cognitive behavioural therapist, and a passionate advocate for a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to personal and organizational mental health.

I opened Barrie Anxiety Clinic in response to the mental health crisis that followed the COVID-19 pandemic. Working full-time through that period, and witnessing the debilitating anxiety, fear, and panic it caused at both the individual and community level, shaped my strong belief in a preventative, skill-building approach to mental health.

I strongly believe that current mental health pandemic could have been prevented if cognitive behavioural skill building was a part of schools curriculum.

Although in my clinical practice I work with clients of all ages, my heart has been with children and youth since my early days working in emergency youth and family shelters. My emotional intelligence skill-building program for girls, Girls Confidence Club, was recognized as second runner-up for the 6th annual Mayor's Innovation Awards. I speak regularly on prevention and recovery.

Beyond clinical work, I also advise organizations and coach executives and leaders navigating pressure, burnout, and change. You can learn more about that work at yuliyalevina.com.