Dr. Catherine Cappadocia, C.Psych.

Dr. Catherine Cappadocia is a Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and their families. She provides assessment, consultation, and therapy services in a warm, collaborative environment grounded in science and strong relationships.

Catherine sees clients in person at the Yorkdale office and is committed to supporting children and teens as they build emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and reach their full potential.

Learn More About Me

The best part of my work is getting to know children and teens, and learning from them, alongside their parents. I feel deeply honoured to be invited into a client’s journey toward stronger relationships and improved mental health. I truly believe that every child does as well as they can, and that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential academically, socially, and in whatever areas matter most to them.

When my co-founder and I started Wonderwise Psychology, we envisioned a clinic filled with highly trained colleagues and positive energy. We wanted it to feel warm, safe, and supportive for everyone: clients, families, and team members alike. I am grateful that this vision feels like a reality each day I come into the office.

As a child, I imagined becoming a teacher. I would conduct lessons with my stuffed animals and little brother, complete with detailed lesson plans. As a teenager, I considered going into business like my parents, yet I continued to pursue every opportunity to work with children, at camps, after-care programs, swim classes, and skating lessons. I always felt honoured that adults trusted me with their children, and I loved building relationships that helped each child feel seen and valued.

In my clinical work, I take an evidence-based approach grounded in the science of psychology. I use current clinical and research evidence to guide assessment and intervention, while also maintaining a client-centered lens. Building strong relationships and creating a warm, supportive environment are central to my work.

Each treatment plan is individualized. I integrate components of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), depending on the needs of the child and family.

Areas of Focus

I consider myself a generalist in my practice., I provide assessment, consultation, and therapy services for children and adolescents presenting with a range of clinical needs, including:

• Anxiety

• Sadness and depression

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Anger difficulties

• Emotion dysregulation

• ADHD

• Social skills difficulties

I also have extensive experience providing assessment, consultation, and therapy services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which is an area of particular interest.

In addition, I work closely with parents through consultation and coaching. Together, we develop parenting strategies tailored to the specific needs of their child and family system.

Education & Professional Background 

• Ph.D., Clinical Developmental Psychology, York University

• M.A., Clinical Developmental Psychology, York University

Following graduation, I worked at the York Region District School Board (YRDSB), first as a Psychologist and later as Interim Coordinator of Psychological Services.

I have also worked as a Clinical Psychologist at Kinark Child and Youth Services, including serving in an interim role as Clinical Lead in the Child and Youth Mental Health program.

My previous training and employment include positions in day treatment and outpatient clinics at GTA hospitals, including the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.

As part of my scientist-practitioner training, I have published research focused on peer relationships and bullying behaviours among children. I have also taught at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto.