Adrian Desmond Daniels

It is with the heaviest hearts that we announce the tragic passing of Adrian Desmond Daniels on September 13, 2024, due to an unexpected complication following surgery. Adrian was the beloved husband of Lindsay Daniels; and loving partner to Emily Springgay. He is also survived by his uncle, Danny and aunt, Maggie McNicol; uncle, Paul Reed; and many dear friends and chosen family. He was a proud animal dad to Cocoa, Sebastian, Ariel, and all the pets who filled his homes with love over the years. He was predeceased by his mother, Evelyn Hammond (née McNicol); his father, Gary Hammond; and his aunt, Mary Reed (née McNicol). 

Adrian was a dedicated psychotherapist, committed to providing affordable, quality care to underserved and vulnerable communities. He was particularly devoted to supporting LGBTQIA2S+ clients and those living with mood and anxiety disorders, ensuring that everyone had a space where they could feel seen, heard, and understood. His innovative mindfulness-based therapeutic approach that he developed for bipolar clients touched many lives. He graduated from the University of Toronto with a BSc Honours in Psychology and minors in Buddhist Psychology and Mental Health and Sexual Diversity Studies. He subsequently completed his masters with the MEd in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy from OISE, U of T. Adrian had just started a doctoral program at OISE, U of T, to advance his pioneering work on bipolar disorder.

 Before answering his calling as a psychotherapist, Adrian attended the Toronto Media and Film College and enjoyed a successful career as a camera operator. He also wrote and directed a short film. His passion for cinematography, film, and television remained throughout his life.

 A talented musician, Adrian loved playing bass and guitar, singing, and songwriting. He was a passionate artist, finding ways to express his deep emotions through music, acting, drawing, and poetry. Adrian lived his life with spiritual conviction as a Buddhist and Pagan, always seeking peace, understanding, and compassion in all of his relationships. 

Adrian will be remembered for his kindness, perseverance, creativity, sense of humour, and his unfailing ability to bring warmth and light into any room. His legacy of love and healing will live on through the countless lives he impacted as a therapist, friend, partner, and family member. Adrian's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him and his influence will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 9th at 2 p.m. at the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. In lieu of flowers, donations in Adrian's memory can be made here: gofund.me/398f14d5