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About Maddie Porayko
Hi, I’m Maddie (she/her), a Registered Psychiatric Nurse and the founder of Forge Psychological. I’ve worked in mental health and addictions across Edmonton since 2021, supporting people through crisis, inpatient care, and community-based therapy.
I’m passionate about making therapy approachable, practical, and affirming—especially for people navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, or questions about identity. I bring a trauma-informed, neurodivergent- and LGBTQ+ affirming lens to all my work, blending evidence-based skills with warmth, humour, and real-life strategies. Outside of sessions, you’ll find me hanging out with my French bulldog Freya, enjoying nature, or spending time at the barn with horses—my favourite co-regulators.
method
Modern & effective methods
Maddie draws from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), tailoring each session to honour her clients’ unique neurotypes and lived experiences.
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professional background
Education
Psychiatric Nursing Diploma
MacEwan University - 2021
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Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing
MacEwan University - 2025
Qualifications
Registered Psychiatric Nurse/MHT
My background as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse gives me a unique lens through which I view mental health—one that blends the science of psychiatry with the heart of psychology. With training rooted in the biopsychosocial model, I take into account the full picture of each client’s life: their biology, psychology, environment, and lived experience. This foundation allows me to integrate evidence-based care with a deep understanding of the medical side of mental health, offering a thoughtful balance between clinical knowledge and compassionate support. I like to think of it as a blend of medicine and magic—grounded in research, but guided by empathy, curiosity, and the belief that healing is never one-size-fits-all.
Experience
My Practice
Through my work in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, I’ve witnessed the full spectrum of what it means to struggle—and to heal. In inpatient care, I supported individuals at their most vulnerable, navigating intense mental health crises with compassion and stability. In outpatient settings, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside clients as they regain their footing, build skills, and reconnect with their strengths. These experiences have shaped my approach to therapy: one that’s rooted in empathy, focused on skill-building, and grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to self-actualize and thrive. I take a holistic view of mental health, working with clients not just to manage symptoms, but to cultivate a life that feels meaningful, balanced, and uniquely theirs.
Approach
Therapeutic Style
My approach to therapy is rooted in a humanistic lens, which means I see each client as a whole, capable, and evolving person—not a problem to be fixed. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process that empowers you to reconnect with your values, strengths, and sense of self. At the heart of my work is the goal of self-actualization—supporting you in becoming the most authentic version of yourself and building a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. I want my clients not just to survive, but to thrive—to experience more joy, connection, and purpose in their everyday lives.
Specializations
Areas of Expertise
I specialize in supporting individuals with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and those exploring gender identity and LGBTQ+ experiences. As an ADHDer myself, I bring both professional expertise and lived understanding to my work—I know firsthand how powerful it can be to feel seen and supported by someone who truly gets it. My goal is to create a space where neurodivergent and marginalized folks feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to navigate life on their own terms.
Training
Continuous Development
I’m deeply committed to continuous learning and take every opportunity I can to grow as a therapist. Whether it’s through reading, attending workshops, or enrolling in advanced training, I’m always seeking out new knowledge to better support my clients. The world of mental health is constantly evolving, and I believe staying curious and informed is essential to providing meaningful, effective care. This dedication allows me to bring fresh tools, updated practices, and deeper insight into every session—because my clients deserve nothing less.