About McDowall,
Care for your whole self.
We're an integrative healthcare practice in Toronto pairing psychology with naturopathic medicine to treat the mind and body as one. Our mission is simple: to be your partner in health, and to help you feel genuinely well.
lifestyle
psychologists
To be your partner in health — providing comprehensive care while fostering the empowerment and personal responsibility that lead to optimal psychological and physical wellness.
Our values
Five simple commitments that shape every interaction, every plan, and every door you walk through.
A message from our founder
Press play for a short, personal note on why McDowall exists — and what we hope you feel the moment you arrive.
Dr. Sharleen McDowall
Founder & Clinical Director | McDowall Integrative Psychology & Healthcare
“Why we built McDowall.”
Hi, my name is Dr. Sharleen McDowall, founder and clinical director of McDowall Integrative Psychology and Healthcare. When I started this practice, I had a simple vision: to create a place where people feel genuinely cared for, understood, and supported through life’s challenges.
I know that reaching out for help isn’t always easy. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, a major life transition, or simply feeling stuck, taking the first step can feel overwhelming. That’s why my team and I are committed to creating a welcoming, compassionate, and collaborative environment where you feel heard and supported.
We believe that every person has strengths, resilience, and the capacity for growth, even during their most difficult moments. At McDowall, we combine evidence-based care with a personalized approach, recognizing that no two individuals are the same. Our goal is not only to help you overcome challenges, but to help you build the tools, confidence, and insight needed to create lasting change and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
Thank you for considering us as part of your journey. We would be honored to support you.
One plan for the whole you
We're an integrative healthcare practice that examines and treats psychological diagnoses, medical conditions and other concerns using a variety of therapeutic modalities.
What makes us different: we create individualized treatment plans that focus not only on psychological health, but on the physical conditions that shape it too — producing optimal, long-lasting wellness.
We treat the roots, not just the surface
Most symptoms are only the tip of the iceberg. We look beneath the surface at the lifestyle, biological and emotional roots quietly shaping how you feel.
How can I start counselling right away?
There are two ways to reach us. Call our Intake Department at (416) 485-5555 ext. 1 — an Intake Counsellor will ask a few questions and connect you with a therapist immediately. Or fill out the web form on our site and our intake team will follow up by phone or email.
How can counselling or psychological treatment help me?
Benefits can include a decrease in the symptoms that led you to seek help, feeling supported during a difficult time, and learning better ways of coping with challenging situations in your life.
Are counselling and psychological services free?
Counselling and psychological services are not covered by OHIP. However, they are covered by most extended health benefit plans that include Registered Psychologist services — check with your employer's plan.
Do you have evening and weekend appointments?
Yes. We have flexible office hours and offer evening and weekend appointments as needed.
I feel nervous about reaching out. What can I expect?
Feeling anxious about the first step is completely normal. Our intake counsellors are empathetic and compassionate. During intake they'll ask a few questions and you only elaborate if you feel comfortable. The process usually takes 10–15 minutes.
What if I don't like my therapist?
A strong therapeutic alliance matters. If you don't feel connected to your therapist, just let us know and we'll gladly connect you with another therapist who better meets your needs.
Are my sessions confidential?
Yes. Maintaining your privacy is a primary goal. We adhere to the privacy and confidentiality guidelines outlined by our profession's regulatory bodies.
What can I expect from my first session?
You'll complete a brief Client Intake Form and review our Consent for Service Form. Your therapist will go over them, answer questions, and focus the session on understanding why you sought help — essentially an intake assessment to get to know you and help you feel comfortable.
How long until I see improvement in couples counselling?
Couples counselling is a process and timing depends on the issues presented. Many couples feel immediate improvement after the first session, while long-standing changes typically take a minimum of 8–10 sessions.
What is an Integrative Health Assessment (IHA)?
The IHA is a complimentary 15-minute holistic phone evaluation that screens whether there's a relationship between your physical and psychological symptoms — an educational tool to help you understand potential causes and whether naturopathic medicine could benefit you.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist in Ontario?
No referral is required. You can contact us directly to book an appointment or consultation. If using extended health benefits, you may wish to confirm reimbursement details with your provider.
Do you offer virtual therapy across Ontario?
Yes. We provide secure virtual therapy sessions for clients anywhere in Ontario, so you can connect with a therapist from the comfort of home.
Virtual Therapy Across Ontario
Get matched with a virtual therapist now.
About Us
Our mission at McDowall is to be your partner in your health by providing you with comprehensive healthcare while fostering health empowerment and personal responsibility to help you achieve optimal psychological and physical wellness.
Our Approach
We are an integrative healthcare practice that examines and treats psychological diagnoses, medical conditions or other concerns using a variety of of therapeutic modalities. We are different that most health practices because we create individualized treatment plans focuses not only psychological health but we that could include the focus on physical conditions to produce optimal long-lasting wellness.
We are an integrative healthcare practice that examines and treats psychological diagnoses, medical conditions or other concerns using a variety of of therapeutic modalities.
Our individual treatment plans include:
Comprehensive Case Conceptualization
Psychological Assessment
Psychological Treatment
Psychotherapy
Couples Counselling
Career Counselling
Naturopathic Mental Health
Naturopathic Medicine
Acupuncture
IV Vitamin Therapy
Workshops and Webinars
Lifestyle Medicine
We provide an individualized approach to treatment.
A mind-body holistic approach – respecting the uniqueness of each individual.
Our Care
We provide a non-discriminatory service, respecting and being sensitive to race, culture, ethnicity, gender, age, abilities, religion, and sexual orientation.
Our Values
Integrity
Kindness
Trust
Compassion
Belonging
Virtual Therapy Across Ontario
Get matched with a virtual therapist now.