My identity has been shaped by many layers - being a woman, an immigrant, and a lifelong learner rooted in culture. I believe in meaningful, holistic transformation - change that nurtures genuine health and well-being. Originally from Romania, I came to Canada more than a decade ago, and the process of weaving together my roots with a new culture has become a defining part of my journey. This experience continues to shape how I support others in rediscovering and embracing their identities as multi-faceted, complex human beings. My life journey has given me the capacity to approach everyone with openness, patience, and without judgment. I hold close the belief expressed by Jim Dumont: “Everyone has the right to feel good about who they are.”

I have worked in the social work field in both Romania and Canada. Alongside the education I received in my home country, I earned my BSW and MSW at Dalhousie University, a school rooted in an anti-oppressive approach. This training deepened my understanding of oppression and its impact on people’s lives. In my practice, I support clients navigating life transitions, anxiety, ADHD, depression, insomnia, and relationship challenges, such as recovery from narcissistic abuse.

My approach is integrative and collaborative, grounded in the belief that each client carries their own inner wisdom and is the true expert of their lived experience. I see my role as walking alongside them with trust and respect, supporting their journey toward growth and healing. I bring strengths in fostering authentic connection, creating a safe and nurturing therapeutic space, and honouring the sacredness of the healing relationship. Guided by a commitment to continual learning and expansion, I value relationships, connectedness, and the creation of spaces that nurture belonging, well-being, and the deeper spiritual dimensions of wholeness.

I named my practice Elpis Therapy after the Greek personification of hope. Hope is a powerful survival mechanism and one of my greatest teachers. I believe there is no person who does not need some form of healing - we have to find our path. With the right support, tools, and strategies, the past does not have to define your future. We can all discover hope and light, and create a life filled with greater peace, kindness, and positive self-energy. 

Education

Master of Social Work (Dalhousie University)

Bachelor of Social Work  (Dalhousie University)

Master of Social Work (Ovidius University)

Master of Management in Human Resources (Dunarea de Jos University)

Bachelor of Arts: History and English language (Dunarea de Jos University)

Professional membership: ​

Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)

Professional development:

Brainspotting Phase 1

Internal Family Systems Therapy: competency course. A start-to-finish instructional series for professionals

Complete IFS Therapy immersion: integrating the IFS model across clinical applications

Narcissistic abuse treatment certification program

Expert strategies for Treating Narcissism

CBT for insomnia

CBT for mood disorders– Level 1 & 2

Pharmacology

Brief Narrative Therapy

DBT skills

Domestic violence risk assessment & management

Trauma and addictions

Hana Mazare: MSW, BSW, RSW

A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair and blue eyes wearing a white top against a gray background.