Registered Therapists

Serena Manoochehri, Registered Psychotherapist at Balanced Life Therapy in Barrie

Serena Manoochehri

BA (Hons) Psych, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist, EMDR Trained Clinician

Areas of focus: Anxiety (including social anxiety), Self-Esteem, Panic Attacks, Depression, Stress Management & Self-Care, Relationship Challenges, Phobias, Trauma, Communication and Boundaries, Grief/Anticipatory Grief, Borderline Personality Disorder, Life Transitions, Emotion Dysregulation.

My Style & Approach

With an approach rooted in empathy and collaboration, Serena blends evidence-based techniques with a warm, nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients can feel safe, seen, and heard. She believes that therapy should be a space for self-discovery and empowerment, tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs and goals. Serena often uses lighthearted humor to ease tension and create a comfortable environment, making it easier for clients to open up and explore their thoughts and feelings.

Melissa Masci, Psychotherapist at Balanced Life Therapy in Barrie

Melissa Masci

BA(Hons)Psych, BSW, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist

Areas of focus: Stress Management, Emotional Dysregulation, Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Communication and Boundary Work, Symptoms of Childhood/Adult Trauma, Relationships (including Abuse)

My Style & Approach

Navigating life’s challenges can be overwhelming and requires vulnerability and courage, especially when we don’t know where to begin. With this in mind, I take a collaborative approach to support clients by helping them identify their challenges, set attainable goals, while honouring their values as they chart a way forward. I employ Trauma-Informed practices to foster a safe, judgement-free environment so that clients can progress and heal as comfortably as possible at their own pace.

Aundrea Caputo Larocque, Registered Social Worker at Balanced Life Therapy in Barrie

Aundrea Caputo Larocque

MSW, RSW

Areas of focus: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Identity Crises, Emotional Dysregulation, Relationship Challenges, Grief and Loss, Caregiver Stress and Burnout, Trauma and Attachment-Related Wounds.

My Style & Approach

Aundrea Caputo Larocque is a Registered Social Worker in Ontario with a Bachelor of Social Work from Laurentian University and a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. She has nearly 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through change, loss, and grief.

Michael Fox, Psychotherapist at Balanced Life Therapy in Barrie

Michael Fox

BSW, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist

Areas of focus: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT), Emotional Distress & Dysregulation, Mindfulness, Evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Applied Suicide Intervention, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Single Session Counselling, Neurodiversity, Gender & Sexuality, Intimate partner violence, Gender based violence, Substance Misuse and Abuse, Compounding Stress, and General Mental Wellness and Well-Being Related Concerns.

My Style & Approach

Michael brings warmth, curiosity, and a deep sense of compassion to his work, fostering therapeutic relationships that are grounded in trust and mutual respect. He integrates creativity and humor into his sessions when appropriate, recognizing the healing power of playfulness and authenticity in navigating complex emotions. With a trauma-informed lens, Michael supports individuals in building emotional resilience and self-awareness, helping them reclaim their narratives and move toward meaningful change. Whether he’s guiding someone through crisis or celebrating small victories, Michael’s approach is always collaborative, intentional, and deeply affirming of each person’s unique journey.

Cindy McAfee, founder of Balanced Life Therapy in Barrie

Cindy McAfee

Areas of focus: Partner Betrayal, Infidelity, Relationship Challenges, Intimacy Reunification, Life Transitions, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Relapse, Symptoms of Childhood/Adult Trauma, Self-Esteem, and Emotional Dysregulation.

My Style & Approach

Cindy is a Registered Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through relationship challenges, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. She uses a warm, client-centred approach, with a touch of humour, to create a supportive and non-judgmental space tailored to each client’s needs.

A graduate of Georgian College, Cindy is registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and has experience facilitating support groups, including women’s self-esteem and recovery programs. Outside of her practice, she is a proud “Glama” to two grandsons and enjoys the joy and laughter they bring to her life.

Square Community Partners

At Balanced Life Therapy, we believe healing and wellbeing extend beyond the therapy room. Our community partners are trusted professionals, organizations, and wellness providers who share our commitment to supporting mental, emotional, and holistic health. Through collaboration, we aim to create a stronger, more connected community where individuals and families can access the care and resources they need to thrive.