About Me
Paliny Kanagalingam, RSW, Registered Social Worker / Therapist
With over 17 years of experience in social work and a background in psychology, I have supported individuals from all walks of life through anxiety, trauma, grief, identity shifts, and life transitions. My specialized training includes trauma-informed care, suicide intervention (ASIST), conflict resolution, refugee and newcomer mental health, and more.
But beyond the credentials, I bring my lived experience. I know what it is like to feel overwhelmed and unseen. This work is personal to me — I do it because I understand what it means to need support, and I want to be that support for you.
I believe meaningful change happens in a space of safety and collaboration. My approach is warm, trauma-informed, and grounded in the belief that you are the expert of your own life.
Areas of Specialization
- coping skills
- depression
- domestic abuse
- family conflict
- marital and premarital
- grief
- infertility
- parenting
- parenting child with disability
- life transitions
- immigration
- relationship challenges
- stress
- trauma and PTSD
- chronic pain
- sexuality
- motor vehicle accident
- people pleasing
Therapeutic models
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Family Systems
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Narrative Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Person-Centered Therapy
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Strength-Based & Trauma-Focused -Approaches
I also integrate mindfulness, breathing, and visualization techniques to help ground the nervous system and support emotional regulation.
Credentials
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Background in Psychology
ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)
Trauma-Informed Care & Conflict Resolution
Immigration & Refugee Mental Health
Crisis Support
Defusing Anger, Resistance, and Hostility
Financial Literacy and Employment Services Training
Whether you are processing trauma, navigating life changes, or seeking deeper clarity, I aim to create a culturally sensitive, judgment-free space where you feel heard and supported every step of the way.