HIDDEN STRENGTH
LEARNING & THERAPY
Skill building and individual therapy for lawyers and law students across Ontario. Founded by former lawyer, Ghada Sharkawy.
Contact Us>
Why Hidden Strength Learning & Therapy
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.
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.
Playing the long game
The high-pressure undercurrents in law school and legal practice often pull in the direction of prioritizing academic achievements and performance 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 professional 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.”
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 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
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
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.
My path through law took me from Bay Street to in-house counsel, then to the strategic complexity of labour relations for one of Canada’s top telecommunications companies. What I learned along the way is crucial: thriving in law requires skills they don’t teach in law school
I founded Hidden Strength Learning & Therapy to offer law students and lawyers the skill-building and support I wish I’d had during my own years in law school and legal practice.
Now I combine my legal experience with evidence-based practices to support others navigating the profession’s toughest challenges. I focus on actionable strategies and out-of-the-box thinking that hold up under real pressure - not just theory that looks good on paper.
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 sessions are the heart of my practice. I teach the skills no one teaches in law school: how to manage stress, work with your nervous system, and sustain high performance without burning out.
Session offerings and formats vary. Some sessions are delivered through institutional partners (such as law schools); others are offered directly.
To learn about upcoming sessions or discuss whether small group skill-building is right for you, please email me at info@hiddenstrengthlearningtherapy.com or use the contact form below.
-
I offer individual therapy on a limited basis. Please reach out directly via the contact form below or email me at info@hiddenstrengthlearningtherapy.com to discuss availability and to answer any questions you may have.
-
Fees vary depending on the type and format of session. I discuss fees prior to working together and prior to making any commitments, with continued transparency throughout.
Please reach out via the contact form below or email me at info@hiddenstrengthlearningtherapy.com to discuss.
-
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—including individual therapy and small group skill-building sessions—are covered under many extended health benefit plans, in full or in part. Many plans also provide coverage to dependents who are full-time students under the age of 26.
Please note that my services are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). I recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to confirm your specific coverage.
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.