Andrea Didtrek
Registered Psychotherapist
M.A. Counselling Psychology
B.A.(Hons) Psychology and Classical Studies
I am a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in the experience of trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, perfectionism, internalized or psychosomatic pain, relationship concerns, self-worth, confidence struggles and loss of self.
If your past or present includes fear and mistreatment this can leave you feeling all sorts of ways: stuck, unhappy, powerless, numb, furious, disconnected, questioning your sense of self, or perhaps wondering if you are somehow damaged. Know this…you are not broken, you are a human being with unmet needs. With support you can grow, heal, find meaning and step into a stronger future as your whole self.
Before coming to this clinic I worked in a University setting with both young and mature students dealing with a wide range of concerns. My background also includes career counselling, accessibility counselling, distress work, healthcare and community resourcing. All of this helps me approach our work together with empathy and practical insights.
I’m not afraid to ask tough questions, or to sit through tough answers. When it’s appropriate I can also be a resource for how and where to find solutions. (Keeping in mind that you ultimately know what fits for you and feels right.)
My role is to be a collaborative, supportive guide, offering insight grounded in psychological science, and serving as a mirror to help you see your path more clearly.
In a safe and nonjudgmental space, you can feel free to share your story, process your emotions, and discover new perspectives and ways of living. You may also feel relief in being seen, heard, and supported in ways that have not been able to count on from others.
I believe that each of us is inherently worthy and capable of growth and healing. The hope is to empower you with a deeper sense of wellness and real belonging in every area of your life so that you can move forward with confidence and strength, and eventually without counselling.
I completed my graduate studies at Yorkville University and undergraduate studies at the University of Waterloo. My education in therapeutic approaches and trauma work is ongoing.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with a wide range of people from all backgrounds holding various identities (gender, ability, religious affiliations, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic situations).
Let’s connect and see what is possible for you!
Subjects:
Trauma, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Loneliness, Anxiety, Depression, Academic Issues and Stress, Perfectionism, Acceptance, People Pleasing, Sexual Violence, Emotional Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Body Image Issues, Self-Esteem, Resilience Building.
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Types of Therapy:
Integrative Therapy informed by Polyvagal Theory, Resource Tapping, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Parts Work, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy
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My Pronouns:
she/her
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Beyond my Work:
I love all forms of movement but yoga holds a special place in my heart because it’s taken real dedication, commitment, and effort, and it also presented me with a group of great like-minded women at a time in my life when I sorely needed one. We still practice together a decade later!
I’m also lucky to have found friends who share my excitement for trying new things and having deep conversations – whether it’s joining a book club with me to talk about the latest murder mystery we’ve read or chatting on a walk about the latest podcast we’ve listened to. If you haven’t checked out Freakonomics (especially the “People I Mostly Admire” and “No Stupid Questions” series), I highly recommend it!
Aside from that, I’m someone who loves creating – whether it’s baking, drawing, painting, crafting, DIY-ing, or something else. Lately, though, my big passion has been improv. I grew up watching “Whose Line Is It Anyways” with Colin Mochrie (my absolute favourite!) and Ryan Styles. It’s still my all-time favorite show, and I’ve been lucky enough to see their live performances and even participate in some, like HYPROV (improv under hypnosis). For me, humour is one of the best ways to cope with life.
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More about me, and how I work...
Integrative Therapy:
In my practice, I weave several approaches and modalities to match your needs and the issues you're facing. I typically rely on person-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, culturally responsive, and collaborative methods. These approaches are all about giving you the power, freedom, and respect you deserve while we work together.​