.png){kind=small}
Our mission is to expand access to culturally sensitive, evidence-based counselling and supportive wellness programs for individuals experiencing psychological distress related to trauma, loss, or major life changes.
Through counselling support, community partnerships, educational initiatives, and wellness activities, we aim to empower individuals to develop resilience, strengthen coping strategies, and move toward emotional healing and personal stability.
We envision a community in which individuals facing psychological and emotional challenges have timely access to compassionate, culturally responsive counselling and supportive resources that foster healing, resilience, and well-being.
Compassion and Respect
We believe every individual deserves dignity, understanding, and compassionate support.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusion
We honor the diversity of cultural, social, and personal experiences and strive to provide services that are respectful and inclusive.
Evidence-Based Care
We support counselling and wellness programs that are informed by established psychological and therapeutic practices.
Empowerment and Resilience
We aim to help individuals strengthen their capacity to cope with adversity and regain a sense of meaning, connection, and hope.
Community Collaboration
We work collaboratively with healthcare providers, community organizations, and educational institutions to expand access to mental health support.
We have various programs and services designed specifically for vulnerable youth and young adults.
We facilitate access to professional counselling services provided by qualified therapists specializing in trauma, grief, and life transitions. Our support may include:
• Trauma-informed counselling
• Support for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Assistance with adjustment disorders and major life transitions
• Support for complicated grief and bereavement • Coping with stress related to displacement, loss, or social adversity
• Other mental health concerns where counselling can make a meaningful difference
Where financial barriers exist, the foundation provide financial assistance to facilitate access to counselling services.
To promote mental well-being and recovery, we support wellness-oriented activities that enhance emotional regulation, creativity, and social connection.
· Mindfulness and meditation workshops
· Creative arts such as painting, pottery, and music
· Physical wellness and recreational activities
We organize support groups and psychoeducational programs These groups focus on:
· Coping with trauma and stress
· Navigating life transitions
· Grief and loss support
· Building emotional resilience · Strengthening interpersonal connection and community belonging
· Stress management and resilience-building workshops
· Personal development and life-skills programs
Naria Foundation also supports individuals in rebuilding stability and confidence through access to education and skill development opportunities.
· Applying for educational grants or scholarships
· Vocational training programs
· Tutoring and academic support
· Career development resources
Naria Foundation focuses on providing support for mental health challenges that can benefit from counselling and psychosocial interventions.
The foundation does not provide treatment for psychiatric conditions that primarily require medical or pharmacological management, such as:
• Bipolar disorder in the manic phase
• Psychotic disorders
• Severe mood disorders requiring primary medical treatment
Eligibility and appropriateness for services will be determined by Naria Foundation’s Mental Health Consultants. Access to Naria Foundation services requires a referral from a qualified health or social care professional.
Referrals may be submitted by:
· Psychiatrists
· Psychologists
· Physicians
· Therapists or counsellors
· Case managers
· Social workers
The referring professional is asked to email referral form to Naria foundation.
Upon receiving a referral:
1. Initial Contact
Our team will contact the client (by phone or email) to complete an intake and information form.
2. Clinical Review
The submitted information will be reviewed by our mental health consultant to determine eligibility and appropriateness for our services.
3. Eligibility Decision
• If eligible, the client and the referee will receive an approval email.
• If not eligible, we will aim to provide guidance toward appropriate resources where possible.
4. Therapist Matching
Approved clients will be matched with a suitable therapist based on their needs, preferences, and clinical considerations.
5. Ongoing Care
The assigned therapist will contact the client directly to initiate assessment and develop a therapeutic plan.
Make a difference by getting involved in our mission to empower youth and young adults in British Columbia. Here's how you can help:
Your donation can make a world of difference to a young person in need. By contributing, you are providing hope and healing that can help them to overcome their struggles and achieve a brighter future. Please contact us, and we will gladly assist you in making your generous contribution.
If you're passionate about making a direct impact, consider volunteering with us. Your time and dedication can make a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable youth and young adults in British Columbia.
Are you an artist who wants to make a difference?
Your art possesses the power to create positive change.
Join us in our cause and contribute towards something grander than yourself by donating your artwork.
Are you interested in hosting an event or fundraising for us?
We appreciate your desire to contribute to our cause and make a difference in the lives of young individuals.
Dr. Parisa Asghari is a dedicated scientist, educator, and certified organizational and educational coach with a PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology from the University of British Columbia and an ICF credential. She brings over 25 years of academic experience, with research that has advanced understanding in cardiovascular health. As both a coach and mentor, she supports individuals and teams in building clarity, collaboration, and purpose. Beyond academia, she is actively engaged in community initiatives that help newcomers and immigrants adapt and thrive, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education, inclusion, and meaningful impact.
Dr. Sonia Habibian was originally trained as a cardiologist in Iran and immigrated to British Columbia in 2005. After completing her training at UBC, she has focused the past 15 years on addiction medicine and mental health. In her years of practice, she came to a deep understanding that PTSD is often the hidden root of addiction and homelessness. She also witnessed a critical gap in trauma-specific resources. Dr. Habibian strongly believes that early intervention for PTSD can empower individuals, especially youth, to heal and rebuild meaningful lives.
Dr. Saeed Zavareh has been a Clinical Assistant Professor at UBC’s Faculty of Medicine, teaching students and residents since 2011. He practices Internal Medicine in Lower Mainland hospitals, researches Evidence-Based Medicine, and brings seven years of experience in rural and addiction medicine.
Dr. Jafari is a registered psychologist and advisor to Naria Foundation, contributing her expertise to program development and clinical guidance. She is an expert in culturally responsive, evidence-based assessment and treatment of ADHD and related mental health concerns in children, youth, and adults. Her expertise spans a broad range of areas, including anxiety, depression, behavioural challenges, and immigration-related stress, as well as comprehensive psychological assessment (e.g., ADHD, learning disorders, FASD). She brings an integrative, evidence-informed perspective drawing on CBT, DBT, FBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia and is committed to advancing culturally sensitive care and strengthening programs that support diverse communities.
Dr. Kamyar Keramatian is advisor to Naria Foundation. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia and a child and adolescent psychiatrist with Vancouver Coastal Health. He serves as Co-Manager of the UBC Mood Disorders Centre and Physician Lead for the Coastal Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) Program. With a strong background in neuroscience and youth psychiatry, his research focuses on early intervention strategies for bipolar and other mood disorders.
Dr. Shadan Kabiri is a board-certified family physician and aesthetic medicine specialist based in Vancouver. Originally trained as a dermatologist in Iran, she later graduated from the
University of British Columbia and earned a Diploma in Practical Dermatology from Cardiff
University. As a UBC clinical instructor, she is actively involved in teaching and mentoring
future physicians. A dedicated philanthropist, Dr. Kabiri has supported several charitable organizations, including the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, BC Children’s Hospital, and the Breast Cancer Foundation. Through her work, she continues to promote women’s empowerment and humanitarian values in medicine.
.webp)
.webp)
.png)