Ai Hirabayashi, RP (Qualifying)

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Clinical Psychologist

Languages: English, Japanese

Setting up a Jane app profile is a great first step. Please ensure you book your free consult here with our intake counsellor BEFORE booking a first session with this therapist.

Ai is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario and a Certified Clinical Psychologist in Japan, with over 10 years of clinical experience in both countries. She holds a Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy from McGill University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Sophia University in Japan.

In her work with couples, Ai has supported partners navigating relational challenges layered with complex issues, including cultural differences, infidelity, trauma, and mental health concerns. She has a particular passion for helping couples rebuild trust and emotional connection after betrayal. Drawing from her training in both Eastern and Western contexts and her lived experience as an immigrant, she offers culturally attuned support to intercultural couples navigating complex dynamics and identity-related issues in their relationships. In her couples work, Ai takes an integrative approach, drawing on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.

Ai also supports individuals dealing with stress, burnout, depression, grief, and cultural adjustment. She is especially attuned to the needs of professionals on sick leave due to overwork. Her previous career in Japan’s IT industry gives her first-hand insight into the intense pressures of high-stress work environments, allowing her to assist in the recovery process with care tailored to the unique needs of each individual. In her individual work, she offers supportive psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic psychotherapy.

The psychotherapy Ai received during her own midlife crisis profoundly transformed her life, enabling her to live more authentically and face challenges with greater self-compassion and resilience. Having experienced therapy from both sides—as a client and as a therapist—Ai deeply believes in its potential to enrich lives. She is committed to creating a safe, collaborative space where clients feel supported in doing meaningful and transformative work.

Joined The Whitestone Clinic: May 2025
RP (Q) License #18888