Alyse Nishimura supports the mental health and emotional well-being of children, teens, and families

What is the origin story of your business? Tell us how and why you started — what inspired you?

In 2013, I started my practice with a clear purpose: to support the mental health and emotional well-being of children, teens, and families. Over the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside countless young people and their parents through some of their most challenging moments navigating anxiety, school stress, or family transitions. As I’ve grown with my clients, so too has the need for services that reflect the unique realities today’s youth face. In recent years, I’ve seen a noticeable shift particularly among teens and young adults who experienced social isolation during critical developmental years. Many are now struggling with heightened anxiety, especially in social settings, and are finding it harder to build confidence and connection. This has led me to thoughtfully evolve my practice. I’ve expanded my focus to address the complex needs of today’s post-pandemic generation: helping teens and young adults rebuild social courage, strengthen their sense of self, and reconnect with community. My approach remains grounded in warmth, trust, and the belief that every young person is capable of growth even when anxiety makes that hard to see. I work with families to create a home full of mutual respect, peace and love. As a Jewish entrepreneur, my values deeply inform my work: the importance of community (Kehila) the obligation to help others (tikkun olam), and the resilience that comes from facing challenges with compassion and courage. I’m honored to be part of this community and committed to continuing the work of helping the next generation thrive.

What does your business do, and who is your ideal client or customer?

Customized therapeutic programs for families, teens, and young adults designed to build calm, confidence, and learn skills to move beyond anxiety. Each program is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual or family, with a focus on meaningful, lasting change. Workshops that empower caregivers with practical tools and strategies to raise calm, confident, and emotionally resilient teens and young adults. These workshops help parents strengthen their connection, communication with their children. While support their growth with clarity and confidence.

What do you love most about running your business?

I love the creativity and flexibility that come with running my own practice. It allows me to design services that are truly tailored to each client’s needs. Maybe that’s an anxious teen who needs gentle encouragement, or a family seeking to communicate more effectively. Being able to respond to what’s happening in real time, both in my clients' lives and in the world around us, keeps the work meaningful and dynamic. I also value the opportunity to continually grow, adapt, and bring new ideas to life in ways that support mental health and community well-being.

How can the community best support you?

Booking services, word of mouth- if you know of someone who is needing extra support, following on social media for tips and tricks to navigate anxiety. I offer customizable workshops for businesses to support their employees.

What is the biggest lesson you've learned on your entrepreneurial journey?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability. Over time, I’ve come to understand that truly effective support comes from meeting clients where they are, not where I think they should be. Letting go of assumptions and staying open to each person’s unique process has allowed me to build deeper trust and create more meaningful, lasting change.

Has your Jewish identity, values, or community experience influenced your business in any way?

My Jewish identity has deeply shaped the way I approach my work. The values of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and chesed (kindness and compassion) are at the heart of my practice. I see my role as helping to strengthen individuals and families so they can thrive and in doing so, contributing to the greater healing of our community. I see every client: as someone with inherent worth, resilience, and the capacity for growth. These values inspire me to create a practice rooted in empathy, integrity, and genuine care. Being part of the Jewish community also gives me a sense of connection and responsibility. It motivates me to show up not just as a professional, but as someone who is committed to the well-being of the next generation. The value of l’dor v’dor (from generation to generation) has particular meaning for me. Much of my work focuses on helping young people build the emotional skills they need to thrive, while also supporting the parents and caregivers raising them. I see this as part of a larger intergenerational process of healing, resilience, and growth, ensuring that strength and understanding are passed forward.

I’m honoured to be considered for this feature. Since moving to Hamilton within the last five years, my family and I have felt deeply welcomed, and we’re grateful to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community. Thank you for taking the time to read my submission and for the opportunity to share my story.