Mark LaPrairie is a qualifying psychotherapist currently pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, Canada. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Linguistics from Carleton University, Canada, as well as a Doctorate in Education from University College London, UK.

With 27 years of experience as an international development and education specialist at a major multilateral development bank, Mark brings a global perspective to his psychotherapy practice. He is deeply attuned to the unique pressures faced by individuals living in cross-cultural environments and understands the expectations placed on them by family and friends in traditional societies. Mark’s therapeutic approach is primarily psychodynamic. He collaborates with clients to explore the impact of early life relationships on their present experiences, helping them uncover unconscious thoughts, feelings, and emotions. This process aims to foster greater clarity in decision-making and empower clients to achieve increased contentment, confidence, and a stronger sense of purpose.

As a parent, Mark is familiar with the challenges of raising children, teenagers, and young adults. As a gay man, he is empathetic to those navigating questions about sexual orientation. In his role as a member of Therapy First, Mark advocates for mental health care for gender dysphoric individuals—especially youth—that is developmentally appropriate, evidence-informed, and grounded in professional best practices.