Trauma, PTSD & Complex Grief
Dr. Amara Osei
Founder & Clinical Director
“Dr. Osei believes that healing is not linear — and that every patient deserves a therapist who meets them exactly where they are. Her work is rooted in safety, trust, and the conviction that recovery is always possible.”
About
Dr. Amara Osei is the founder and Clinical Director of Clearwater Behavioral Health. Born in Accra, Ghana, she completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Ghana before earning her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Toronto.
With over 16 years of experience in trauma-informed psychotherapy, Dr. Osei has helped hundreds of patients recover from complex PTSD, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and grief. She founded Clearwater Behavioral Health in 2009 with a singular mission: to make evidence-based mental health care accessible, compassionate, and free from stigma.
Dr. Osei is a certified EMDR therapist and trainer, and has delivered workshops on trauma-informed care at national conferences across North America. She is a passionate advocate for mental health equity, particularly within immigrant and BIPOC communities.
Selected Publications
- Osei A. et al. (2020). EMDR outcomes in complex PTSD among immigrant populations. Journal of Traumatic Stress.
- Osei A. (2022). Culturally responsive trauma therapy: a framework for BIPOC clients. Psychological Services.
Education
- PsyD Clinical Psychology, University of Toronto
- BSc Psychology (Hons), University of Ghana
- Internship in Trauma Psychology, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
- Post-doctoral Fellowship in Complex Trauma, Johns Hopkins University
Licences & Certifications
- Licensed Psychologist (FL #PY9821)
- EMDR Certified Therapist & Consultant (EMDRIA)
- Certified in Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
- Fellow, American Psychological Association (APA)