Fr. Josis Vazhakala

Expertise

Professional Background

Fr. Josis Vazhakala is a dedicated healthcare professional with an extensive background in both nursing and psychology. He holds a Master of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Psychology from respected institutions in India. Fr. Josis is also deeply committed to his spiritual vocation and serves as a priest at a Syriac Orthodox parish in Barrie, Ontario. His theological education includes courses from Trinity College and Knox College, University of Toronto, which have enriched his understanding and integration of faith and mental health in his practice.

Currently, Fr.osis is pursuing a Master of Divinity with a focus on Counselling and Psychotherapy at Tyndale University, further enhancing his ability to provide holistic and spiritually grounded mental health care.

Licensure and Practice

As a Registered Nurse licensed by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO),  Josis brings a wealth of clinical experience, particularly in the fields of mental health and addiction nursing. He practices as a psychotherapist under his CNO nursing license, offering clients a unique blend of evidence-based therapy and spiritual care.

Therapeutic Expertise

Fr. Josis is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), skills he developed as part of his theological studies at U of T. These therapeutic approaches are essential in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and addiction. Through CBT, Fr. Josis helps clients identify and alter negative thought patterns, while DBT equips them with tools for better emotional control and healthier interpersonal relationships.

Holistic and Spiritual Care

Fr.Josis’s approach to psychotherapy is deeply holistic, integrating his theological education with his clinical expertise. His practice incorporates spiritual care and Christian counseling, offering a comprehensive treatment model that addresses the emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions of his clients’ lives. By blending faith with therapy, Fr. Josis provides a path to healing that is both profound and transformative, catering to the needs of the whole person.

Commitment to the Community

With a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual needs of the South Asian community, Josis is committed to providing culturally sensitive and accessible mental health care. He is passionate about spreading mental health awareness and offers cost-effective therapy options, ensuring that quality care is available to all who need it.