HIDDEN STRENGTH

LEARNING & THERAPY

Skill building and individual therapy for law students across Ontario. Founded by former lawyer, Ghada Sharkawy.

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Why Hidden Strength Learning & Therapy

Wooden blocks stacked in a pyramid shape with silhouettes of heads. Five blocks have question marks in the head, one block has a light bulb.

Leveraging neuroplasticity

Hidden Strength Learning & Therapy is founded on the firm belief that a reservoir of untapped potential lies within each and every one of us, waiting to be uncovered, supported and strengthened.

This belief is grounded in the science of neuroplasticity—the brain’s remarkable ability to change, learn and form new neural connections, based on how we use it, particularly with repetitive practice.

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Proactive skill-building

Too often, therapy is accessed reactively, after significant challenges have emerged.

Hidden Strength believes deeply in the value of therapy as a responsive, restorative support in the face of challenges.

And also in its preventative value, well before life challenges become critical.

Close-up of a chessboard with black pieces on the left and white pieces on the right, placed outdoors with sunlight.

Playing the long game

The high-pressure undercurrents in law school often pull in the direction of prioritizing academic achievements at the expense of self-care. To play the long game, however, requires building a mindset and habits that deliver sustainably over time, paving the way for enduring academic and personal success.

Whether you’re facing specific challenges or seeking further personal development, Hidden Strength is here to support you in realizing your full potential for a fulfilling and empowered life.

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you pales in comparison to what lies inside you.”
— R. W. Emerson

Services

Law school and legal practice can be tremendous sources of privilege and fulfillment. And also significant sources of stress — where high pressure, tight deadlines and long hours are the norm. Over time, this can lead to overwhelm, strained relationships, stress-related health problems and burnout.

Hidden Strength offers an integrated approach to support your personal and academic success through both one-on-one therapy and small group sessions designed to build essential life skills.

SMALL GROUP SKILL BUILDING

small group skill building

Small group skill building sessions with Hidden Strength are dynamic and interactive, allowing you to learn and practice essential life skills to manage stress and anxiety, address perfectionism and build resilience.

Acquire actionable strategies through practical exercises and discussions, while benefiting from the shared experiences and insights of your peers.

Group skill building sessions are provided virtually via secure videoconference.

INDIVIDUAL THERAPY

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Hidden Strength offers a safe, confidential space for focused, individualized care to address your unique needs and goals.

Applying a therapeutic approach that is holistic and trauma-informed, therapy with Hidden Strength is grounded in mindfulness, the neurophysiology of stress and the science of neuroplasticity.

Individual therapy sessions are provided virtually via secure videoconference or telephone.

Meet Ghada

Smiling Ghada with glasses and dark hair, wearing a black blazer and layered necklaces.

Hi! I’m Ghada, a former lawyer whose eagerness to explore the age-old question of what drives human well-being led to an interdisciplinary education in philosophy, law, conflict resolution and social work.

I founded Hidden Strength Learning & Therapy to provide law students with the skill building and support I wish I had through my own years in law school and legal practice. 

Throughout my five years studying law, social work and conflict resolution, I was privileged to serve as an on-site support for both graduate and undergraduate university students on matters relating to academic success and a range of mental health challenges.

I’ve practiced law at one of Canada’s leading law firms on Bay Street, served as in-house counsel for a prominent national technology provider and as a labour strategist for one of Canada’s leading telecommunications companies.

I thrive on supporting others through difficult challenges that benefit from close attention and out-of-the box thinking, with a focus on actionable tools and strategies. 

I earned my Honours Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy), Certificate in Conflict Resolution, Masters of Social Work and Juris Doctor from the University of Toronto.

FAQ

  • Small group skill building sessions will begin with my ‘Overcoming Perfectionism’ series.

    This series includes three skill building sessions, each 90 minutes in duration. These sessions are designed to be taken as a complete series or independently, as best suits your interest and availability.  Up to four participants may be accommodated per session.  

    Details on session dates and registration, coming soon.  Please email me at info@hiddenstrengthlearningtherapy.com or use my contact form below for further details.

  • I offer an initial 20 minute phone consult, at no charge, so we can connect to assess fit and I can answer any questions you may have prior to beginning individual therapy.

    I would be happy to chat about your goals for therapy and how I can best support you.  

    Please complete the contact form below or email me directly at info@hiddenstrengthlearningtherapy.com to book your initial consultation.

    Individual therapy sessions are offered by video (secure online format) or phone, based on your preference.

  • Fees

    My fees are:

    • $180 per 50-minute session for individual therapy; and

    • $120 per 60-minute session per person for small group skill-building sessions.

    Fees are HST exempt.

    Payment for individual therapy is due at the end of each session. Payment for small group skill-building sessions is due upon enrollment. Payment by credit card is accepted for both individual therapy and small group sessions.

    Receipts are provided upon payment.

    Cancellation Policy

    24 hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule individual therapy sessions. Otherwise, the full fee will be charged for a missed session.  Please note that most insurance plans do not cover the cost of missed appointments.

  • I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.  

    Services provided by registered social workers to individuals or groups, including for life skills instruction, are covered under many extended health benefit plans, in full or in part.  

    Many extended health benefit plans provide coverage to dependents who are full-time students under the age of 26.

Contact

To book a no charge 20-minute consultation with Ghada Sharkawy or for more information on the services provided by Hidden Strength Learning & Therapy, please enter your information here or email me directly at info@hiddenstrengthlearningtherapy.com.

I look forward to hearing from you.