About Us

Read about our director, and our Forest Hill associates (listed in alphabetical order).

Dr. Neil A. Rector, Ph.D., C.Psych., Clinical Psychologist, Clinic Director

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Dr. Neil Rector is a Registered Clinical Psychologist and the Founder and Director of the Forest Hill Centre for CBT. His clinical approach combines up-to-date, scientifically supported cognitive-behavioural treatments for a range of client difficulties in a respectful, supportive, and collaborative environment. His areas of clinical expertise include helping people to overcome depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD and Related Disorders, and stress-related problems and to enhance and promote psychological well-being. He has a special interest in helping clients that experience co-occurring anxiety and depression as well as clients who have tried other treatments but achieved less than optimal outcomes. Dr. Rector can be contacted at info@foresthillcbt.com.

Melanie Adler, M.A., C.Psych.

Melanie Adler is a Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario to provide services in Clinical and Counselling Psychology to adult clients. She obtained her Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto in 2010. Her areas of clinical expertise include working with individuals experiencing various anxiety disorders, depression, psychological trauma, chronic pain, adjustment difficulties, and relationship issues, among others. She has also worked extensively with individuals who are on leave from work owing to psychological disability. She takes a non-judgmental, empathic, collaborative and evidenced based approach to her practice. She works primarily from a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approach, while integrating aspects of other evidenced based therapies (e.g., Emotion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness based approaches) when appropriate.

Andrea Aternali, M.A.

Andrea Aternali is a senior doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at York University. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings including hospital treatment programs, correctional facilities, and private practices. She currently provides treatment services to adults, older adolescents, and couples under the supervision of Dr. Leah Zalan, C.Psych. Andrea helps clients experiencing a range of challenges and mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, emotion regulation difficulties, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She takes a client-centered approach while integrating evidence-based therapies including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness-based interventions. She takes a collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental approach to guide clients through their challenges, achieve their therapeutic goals, and improve their well-being.

Dr. Matt Bernstein, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Dr. Bernstein is a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. He offers assessment services for adults and seniors and therapy for adults. Dr. Bernstein provides psychoeducational assessments including testing for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Learning Disabilities. He also offers a range of neuropsychological assessment for issues such as concussion, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and related conditions, dementia, brain tumours, and epilepsy.

Dr. Bernstein also offers diagnostic assessment and treatment (i.e., therapy) to individuals with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, and those having difficulty coping with stress. He also has experience working with individuals with medical problems including obesity and related health concerns. His approach is client-centered, aiming to meet clients where they are at, while utilizing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques.

Prior to joining Forest Hill CBT, Dr. Bernstein obtained his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Manitoba along with a 1-year predoctoral residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago where he received extensive neuropsychology and general clinical psychology training. He then completed a 2-year post-doctoral fellowship at Toronto Western Hospital/University Health Network (UHN) with a focus on movement disorders including Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Emilee Burgess, C.Psych

Dr. Burgess is a Registered Clinical Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Dr. Burgess completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and completed her pre-doctoral residency at the Nova Scotia Health Authority. She has worked in a variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, partial-hospitalization, and private practice settings in the United States, UK, and Canada. Dr. Burgess has experience in providing evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders and obesity, borderline personality disorder and emotional dysregulation, and substance use disorders. She incorporates additional strategies from Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Self-Compassion approaches within her work. Dr. Burgess’ approach is to provide evidence-based therapy in a way that is non-judgmental, compassionate, and client-centered. She is experienced providing treatment for individuals from the LGBTQ* community and is committed to providing culturally sensitive treatment for all clients.

Dr. Tali (Ogniewicz) Burstein Ph.D., C.Psych

Dr. Tali (Ogniewicz) Burstein is a Registered Clinical Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She completed her PhD at Concordia University and her predoctoral residency at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. Dr. Burstein helps her clients manage difficult emotions, develop healthy and adaptive behaviours and relationships, and engage in more helpful thinking styles. Dr. Burstein has worked in university clinics, hospitals, private practices, and community centres. While working in Minnesota (2018-2020), she was a primary referral Psychologist for patients and medical personnel from the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Burstein takes a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach to help her clients feel supported and at ease. She collaborates with each client to tailor therapy to their specific needs and goals in order to help develop effective coping strategies and, ultimately, live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Dr. Burstein works with adults and older adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, burnout, low self-esteem, perfectionism, alcohol/substance use, trauma, attentional and organizational problems, and relationship difficulties. She uses evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-based interventions. Using these approaches, Dr. Burstein helps her clients manage difficult emotions, develop healthy and adaptive behaviours and relationships, and engage in more helpful thinking styles.

Dr. Lance Hawley Ph.D., C.Psych

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Dr. Hawley is a Registered Clinical Psychologist who provides treatment for individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders as well as OCD spectrum disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Based CBT (MBCT) approaches. His treatment approach is collaborative and individualized, considering research supported psychological treatments in order to help individuals cope more effectively with their circumstances. Dr. Hawley is the Clinical Lead (Outpatient Psychological Services) and Co-Director of Training for the Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Dr. Hawley is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto and the University of Toronto, Scarborough. He is an Associate Editor for the peer-reviewed journal Mindfulness (Springer Publications).

Dr. Danielle Katz, Ph.D., C.Psych, Clinical Psychologist

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Danielle Katz received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from York University in 2016. She has experience working with individuals who have a wide range of psychological concerns, including anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, emotion regulation difficulties, and concerns related to chronic health conditions. Danielle believes strongly in the importance of creating a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She works collaboratively with clients in order to help them recognize their strengths and achieve their goals at their own pace. With each client, Danielle uses evidence-based therapy drawing upon client-centred, cognitive-behavioural, and dialectical-behavioural traditions. She has practiced in a variety of healthcare centres, including Toronto General Hospital, Humber River Regional Hospital, The London Health Sciences Centre, and St. Joseph’s Health Care London, and has previously worked as a research associate at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.

Dr. Naomi Koerner, Ph.D., C.Psych., Clinical Psychologist, Associate

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Dr. Naomi Koerner is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Ryerson University and has been a registered psychologist in Ontario since 2010. She received her PhD in Psychology from Concordia University in 2007. During the final year of her doctoral training, she completed a clinical internship at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto. Dr. Koerner’s clinical training and interests are in cognitive-behavioural therapy for anxiety disorders and depression. The focus of her research is anxiety disorders, in particular the causes of excessive and uncontrollable worry. Dr. Koerner has received research funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and Ryerson University. At Ryerson University, Dr. Koerner has taught courses on psychological disorders and behaviour therapy. She is currently on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies, an interprofessional organization that promotes the practice and science of CBT in Canada.

Dr. Diana M. Lisi, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Dr. Lisi is a registered clinical psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She received her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of British Columbia (Okanagan) and completed her pre-doctoral residency at the University of Manitoba’s department of Clinical Health Psychology. She also completed a post-doctoral fellowship at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in 2022. Throughout her training and clinical experiences, she has worked with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and health-related concerns. She has numerous experiences co-facilitating group therapy across a variety of clinical concerns, including social anxiety, weight management, cognitive issues, mindfulness for chronic pain, and general well-being. She primarily uses Cognitive Behaviour Therapy with her clients, but also incorporates elements of other evidence-based frameworks, as is appropriate. She also has extensive training in providing comprehensive cognitive and psychological assessments. Diana fosters a warm, open, and nonjudgmental space for clients to share their experiences and work towards their goals.

Dr. Julia Marinos, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Dr. Marinos is a Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She completed her Ph.D. at the University of Ottawa and her predoctoral residency at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. She has experience assessing and treating complex severe mental health concerns with diverse clients across multiple settings including a tertiary care mental health hospital, a private practice, and a university-based community clinic. Her research has focused on improving outcomes of CBT for anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychosis. Dr. Marinos provides psychological assessment and treatment to adults with various anxiety and mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, obsessive-compulsive disorders, perfectionism, emotion dysregulation, and self-esteem. Her practice is inclusive, she welcomes everyone without judgement, and provides culturally informed care. She takes a client-centered approach by working collaboratively with clients to establish meaningful goals and tailors treatment to the needs of the individual. Dr. Marinos uses evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.

Rotem Regev, M.A., C.Psych.Assoc.

Rotem Regev is a registered Clinical Psychological Associate providing consultation and treatment to adults with mood and anxiety disorders as well as other difficulties. Rotem completed her Masters in Clinical Psychology from Ben Gurion University and her Specialized Honours undergraduate degree at York University. She is part of the Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre where she is involved in various research initiatives aimed at investigating cognitive vulnerabilities to mood and anxiety disorders as well as their treatment. Rotem’s areas of expertise include treatment for obsessive compulsive and related disorders, anxiety disorders such as panic, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety and specific phobia, depression, relationship issues and other personal difficulties. She uses evidence-based therapy delivered in a compassionate and supportive environment and works collaboratively with clients to optimize their wellbeing and to help guide them through difficulties in order to achieve their full potential.

Dr. Sharon Simpson Ph.D., C. Psych (Supervised Practice), MSc

Dr. Simpson is a psychologist in supervised practice with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She received her PhD in psychology at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. She has additional
post-graduate training in forensic (MSc) and counselling (MSc) psychology.

She has worked clinically in a major psychiatric hospital, the community mental health team in the UK national health service (NHS), and in a university-based research clinic, providing specialist services for people with common mental health conditions, addictions and eating disorders. Her clinical and academic interests are focused on the management of complex trauma.

Dr. Simpson will work with you to establish personalized treatment goals, tailoring therapy to your specific needs.

Dr. Alexandra Soliman, Ph.D., C.Psych., Clinical Psychologist, Associate

Dr. Alexandra Soliman is a Registered Clinical Psychologist and an Associate at the Forest Hill Centre for CBT. She is experienced in treating adults using scientifically-grounded psychological assessment and treatment methods.  She has a collaborative, cognitive-behavioural orientation to psychotherapy, with a strong interest in neurobiology and behaviour.  She incorporates psychoeducation with acceptance and commitment therapy to increase individuals’ understanding of symptoms, treatment rationale, and also their cognitive flexibility.  She has a particular clinical interest in treating difficulties where psychological symptoms link closely to life stressors.

Dr. Rebecca Young, Ph.D. C.Psych.

Dr. Rebecca Young, Ph.D. C.Psych. is a licensed clinical psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. She received her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology at York University and completed her pre-doctoral residency at the Nova Scotia Health Authority. Rebecca has worked in a variety of clinical settings including hospital, university, outpatient, and private practice. In her clinical work, she provides therapy and assessment services to adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. Her clinical approach is collaborative and evidence-based and integrates client centered, cognitive-behavioural, and acceptance and commitment therapies. In addition to her work at Forest Hill CBT, she is part of the intensive services team at the Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre for severe OCD at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre where she previously completed a 2-year post-doctoral fellowship.

Dr. Leah Zalan, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Dr. Leah Zalan received her PhD in Clinical Psychology from York University, and completed her residency at the Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, working with individuals with mood and anxiety disorders, as well as borderline personality disorder. At Forest Hill CBT, Dr. Zalan works primarily with adolescents, and also works with adult and couple clients. She provides assessment/therapy for individuals with mood & anxiety disorders, emotional regulation challenges, self-esteem and relationship issues, and other interpersonal and stress-related difficulties. Dr. Zalan works from a variety of theoretical orientations at both the group and individual level, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT)-informed treatments, and mindfulness-based protocols. She further specializes in the treatment of body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs), including trichotillomania & skin picking. Dr. Zalan teaches psychology courses at various universities at the undergraduate and graduate level. She also collaborates in research and clinical work at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.

Jasmine Gish

Jasmine Gish is thrilled to be in the role of intake coordinator at Forest Hill Centre for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Jasmine has recently graduated from University of Toronto with a Honours Bachelor of Science Psychology Specialist degree, and looks forward to creating a warm, welcoming, and safe environment for every client. Jasmine provides information regarding the clinical team, the services we provide, and works to make the process of seeking therapy as easy as possible.

Heather Lumsden-Ruegg

Heather recently graduated from York University’s specialized honours program with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and is delighted to be in the role of intake coordinator at Forest Hill CBT. Heather is responsible for conducting intake interviews with clients and assessing their needs, as well as guiding them through the process of obtaining services at the clinic. She is dedicated to ensuring that clients feel heard and understood, and works diligently to ensure that they receive the care they need to achieve their goals.