Irfa Samnani, BSN, M.Ed.

Founder & Director

Hello! I’m Irfa (she/her/hers)

A mother, partner, sister, daughter, friend, former nurse, mental health advocate, BIPOC, South Asian therapist, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and founder of Glow Mental Health!

My Training and Experience:

I hold a Master of Education in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE). I completed my clinical training at Women’s College Hospital’s Reproductive Life Stages (RLS) Program. There, I supported women navigating the emotional complexities of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting, and co-facilitated three therapy groups: a pregnancy skills group, a postpartum interpersonal group, and a mother-baby group for clients with a history of trauma and adverse childhood experiences.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade as a Registered Nurse in Oncology, Hospice, Palliative Care, and Perinatal Health, walking alongside individuals and families through some of life’s most vulnerable and transformative moments. I had the privilege of working at world-renowned centres of excellence, including Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto, Emory University Hospital, and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Beyond the Therapy Room:

I’m an introvert at heart, happiest in quiet moments with a good book, a cozy blanket, and a quiet evening in. I love spending time with my partner, especially when we’re deep into a new TV series or rewatching a favourite comedy sitcom that still makes us laugh. I’m also a parent, and some of my most grounding moments are the everyday ones I share with my two children. I also find comfort in simple pleasures like a warm cup of chai, journaling my thoughts with colourful gel pens, relaxing music, and the occasional good piece of chocolate. While I recharge in solitude, I also deeply value connection. I love meeting up with friends for dinner or coffee and having thoughtful, meaningful conversations. As someone from a South Asian background, I find a special sense of joy in family gatherings, sharing food, laughter, and stories across generations. I enjoy Bollywood music and dancing the night away. These small joys help me stay present, playful, and connected to what matters most.

What I Bring to Therapy:

I am passionate about creating a safe space in therapy for individuals and couples to pause, reflect, and create meaningful change. My approach is trauma-informed and client-centred, rooted in warmth and compassion. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that honours your values and your voice, and strive to bring presence and deep respect for your unique journey and lived experience.

Coming to therapy can feel like a big step, and sometimes, an uncertain one. You deserve a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported without pressure to be anything other than who you are in this moment. It’s important to find a therapist who feels like a good fit. Someone you can feel comfortable with, even when the work feels hard. I will meet you where you are, move at a pace that feels right for you, and offer insights, reflections, and practices that are aligned with your needs.

If you feel I could offer what you’re looking for, I invite you to schedule a no-pressure, free 15-minute consultation to see if we’d be a good fit. I look forward to meeting you!