About Me
I help therapists and creative entrepreneurs build self-trust and do work that actually feels like them.
Hiiii! I’m Shawn
Clinical Psychologist, Community Leader and Podcast Host
I’m Dr. Shawn Hondorp—a clinical psychologist, leader of an amazing community of humans, and host of The Innovative Therapist Podcast. I believe deeply in the power of community and play to deeply connect with ourselves and others, and ultimately to change our lives (it’s completely transformed mine).
I started this community because I kept seeing how many brilliant and passionate therapists and helpers were feeling stuck—burned out, disconnected from themselves, and unsure how to do work that truly felt like them. I’ve been there. My path included disordered eating, perfectionism, and overworking, and I’ve learned that healing doesn’t happen through more pressure or productivity. It happens when we slow down, get brutally honest, and reconnect with the parts of us that have been trying to keep us safe.
I’m incredibly passionate about creating spaces—on the podcast, at retreats, in our online community and in real life—where brave therapists and healing professionals can share their truths, reconnect with their creativity and sense of joy, and feel seen in all their parts (no one is too much here). When I’m not having deep talks about real sh*t in our community, I’m hanging with my super cool kids (2 humans, 1 pug) and my partner in Grand Rapids, Michigan, talking to our dog Teddy in a ridiculous voice, or dancing again after a 20-year break. (At home – dance party style to Kpop Demon Hunters Golden. Or in the studio – Contemporary and jazz are my current obsessions.)
My Approach & Values
I believe healing happens when we create brave, connected spaces where people feel safe enough to be fully themselves—messy parts and all.
My work is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, body trust principles, and a deep respect for the wisdom that lives in each of us. Whether I’m hosting a retreat, holding space on the podcast, or supporting professionals in community, my goal is always the same: to help you return to yourself, listen deeply, and create from that place.
I value authenticity over perfection. Curiosity over judgment. Courage over comfort.
And I believe in collective healing that actively challenges harmful systems like diet culture, systemic racism, fatphobia, and ableism—while honoring each person’s lived experience and inner wisdom.
My Experience
- Over a decade of clinical experience helping people heal from disordered eating, perfectionism, and body disconnection
- IFS Level 1–trained therapist
- Host of The Innovative Therapist Podcast—a space for real conversations with courageous, creative professionals
- Retreat facilitator and community builder, supporting therapists and helpers to reconnect with their voice, body, and purpose
My Education
- Michigan State University – B.S. in Psychology
- Drexel University – M.S. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
- Rush University Medical Center – Pre-doctoral Internship & Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Board certified Clinical Health Psychologist
Ways to Connect & Grow Together
🫶 Free Community Meetups
Join us virtually or in person (West Michigan!) for real conversations about body trust, creativity, and meaningful work.
🌿 Retreats & Events
Get away, drop in, and reconnect—with yourself and others who really get it. These experiences are brave, soulful, and spacious.
🛠️ Creative Tools & Resources
Explore practical, thoughtful offerings like the Self-Trust Workbook and Inspired Innovators Guide—designed to support your healing, creativity, and professional growth.
Stay Connected
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Join the email community for podcast drops, upcoming events, and powerful tools to support your growth.