Robin Hellendoorn

Thanks to all the research that has been done on the brain and nervous system we now know so much more about the effects of neglect, abuse, and dysfunctional families. Some of the latest research shows that insight without accessing emotion in a relational context isn’t long lasting. We know that the need for attachment, understanding, to be loved, to matter, and to be valued are shared human needs across cultures. We know that to be alone can be traumatizing. We also know what is traumatizing to one person is not necessarily traumatizing to another.

And yet, there is a lot of pressure to be perfect, self-reliant, and invulnerable. But this goes against our very human nature. There is no shame in turning to someone for help. In fact, it is a sign of resourcefulness.

Speaking to a psychotherapist is not the same as talking with friends or family. To start with, there is confidentiality and privacy. Therapists are doing something more than just listening and generally do not give advice. A psychotherapist is listening in a particular way based on years of education, training, and experience, with the aim of helping you identify where and why you are stuck in life. Further, a psychotherapist understands complex psychological processes, trauma, and behavioural development. This understanding is used to help you accomplish your goals in therapy.

How I Work

My primary training was in psychodynamic psychotherapy at The Centre for Training in Psychotherapy, but I have also had post-graduate training in Trauma, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP). In addition to extensive education and academic training I have had my own personal therapy over many years. All this means is that I try to bring a breadth of experience and training to each person in an effort to understand and help them contend with their unique and individual situation.

I work out of my home, close to transit. I have a friendly, hypo-allergenic dog who is a comforting presence in the room.

I mostly work with people on a weekly basis in person or online.

About Me

I graduated from The Centre for Training in Psychotherapy (CTP) in 1995 after 8 years of training and many more years of personal psychotherapy. I was very glad that CTP believed in and put emphasis on therapists doing their own personal psychotherapy. It’s hard to learn about the deep nature of a human being and unconscious processes purely academically.

Prior to my training and work as a psychotherapist I worked for 20+ years in the natural health field. I knew I always wanted to work with people, but more and more I began to see the deep connection between our early caregiving environments and our emotional and physical health. This led me to seek training as a psychotherapist.

I find working with clients to be continually rewarding and emotionally and intellectually stimulating. This work has helped me find meaning in life, which I think is one of the most important things we all need to find.

The First Step

I would be happy to meet with you. You can contact me by email at rhellendoorn@gmail.com or by phone at 416-921-7115 . I practice M-F at Oakwood & Davenport. I am open to working remotely online via a secure format for those unable to attend in person.