Our Team

Florina Psychotherapy is led by a multidisciplinary team committed to culturally informed, trauma-aware, and relationship-centred care. Our clinicians and leadership bring together lived experience, clinical training, and deep respect for the diverse communities we serve.

MALIGNE BRUNI

Pronunciation: ma-leen

Founder & Clinical Director

MACP, RP (Qualifying), BAHSA, LPN

Credentials

Master of Counselling Psychology (Honours)
Bachelor of Human Services Administration (Distinction)
Licensed Practical Nurse Diploma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
Licensed Practical Nurse, College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta

Maligne has always felt a strong calling toward helping others. With over a decade of experience in nursing, she has supported individuals across hospitals, clinics, and community settings, working within specialty medicine, surgery, addictions, and eating disorders.

Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Maligne grew up in a multigenerational Filipino household. As a second-generation Filipino Canadian, she deeply values family and community while also understanding the quiet tension of navigating life between cultures.

Over ten years ago, during her own search for a therapist, Maligne noticed a lack of representation among mental health professionals. This experience became a driving force behind her work — inspiring Filipinos, BIPOC, and other marginalized individuals to pursue leadership and careers in mental health, while helping create therapeutic spaces where everyone feels seen, respected, and supported.

Her personal journey with self-image and an eating disorder further shaped her approach to therapy. Through her own healing, Maligne came to understand that true worth lies not in appearance, but in character, connection, and compassion. She lives by the belief: “Our greatest legacy is the way we touch the hearts of others, not the way we look.”

Today, Maligne blends clinical knowledge, lived experience, and empathy to walk alongside clients with care and intention.

Outside of work, she enjoys creating cozy spaces, exploring coffee, tea, and bubble tea spots, hiking, and spending time outdoors. She previously played soccer as a defensive player and has recently discovered a love for pickleball. She also enjoys quiet evenings at home with her dog, Romeo.

Credentials

Master of Counselling Psychology
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology
Registered Psychotherapist, College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
Canadian Clinical Supervisor, Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

Paula has practiced as a Registered Psychotherapist for over ten years and as a Clinical Supervisor for more than five years. She is deeply passionate about supporting both clients and supervisees in living and working in ways that feel aligned, meaningful, and sustainable.

Her interest in clinical supervision is grounded in the belief that effective therapy begins with supported, reflective clinicians who feel confident in their professional identities. Paula values supervision as a space for growth, curiosity, and collaboration — where therapists can bring their full selves, questions, and uncertainties without judgment.

Her approach is guided by authenticity, openness, and mutual learning, creating an environment where both clinicians and clients can thrive.

Outside of work, Paula enjoys spending time in nature, discovering new restaurants, and exploring creative outlets such as photography, which help her stay grounded and inspired.

Florina Psychotherapy collaborates externally with Infinite Horizons Psychotherapy.

PAULA GONZALEZ

Pronunciation: Paw-luh

Clinical Supervisor & Registered Psychotherapist

MCP, CCS, RP

MATTEO BRUNI

Pronunciation: mah-tay-oh

Operations & Clinic Manager

High School Science Teacher | B.Ed., B.Sc.

Credentials

Bachelor of Science — Major in Biology, Minor in Psychology
Bachelor of Education — Major in Biology, Minor in Physical Sciences

Matteo brings over eight years of experience in education, with a strong foundation in psychology that informs his approach to leadership, operations, and relationship-building. He believes that safe, supportive environments are built through trust, communication, and strong interpersonal connections.

Throughout his teaching career, Matteo has worked across the K–12 public education system, supporting students from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. His work has involved close collaboration with counsellors, therapists, psychologists, and learning support teams to address students’ academic and emotional needs.

For the past five years, he has taught high school and currently facilitates General Psychology courses for Grades 10 and 11, further strengthening his understanding of mental health, development, and systems of care.

Outside of work, Matteo stays active through sports, particularly soccer, which he continues to enjoy despite past injuries. He coaches his school’s Senior Boys Soccer team, trains for marathons, and enjoys hiking, golfing, and cycling with his dog, Romeo.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about our team or explore working together, feel free to reach out directly or use the contact form below.