About Me
I help therapists and creative healers build self-trust and do work that actually feels like them.
Hello! I’m Shawn
Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Podcast and Retreat Host
I’m Dr. Shawn Hondorp—a licensed clinical psychologist, retreat facilitator, and host of The Innovative Therapist Podcast. But more than that, I’m someone who believes deeply in the power of self-trust, creativity, and connection to change lives.
I started this community because I kept seeing how many brilliant, heart-centered therapists and helpers were feeling stuck—burned out, disconnected from their bodies, and unsure how to do work that truly felt like theirs. I’ve been there too. Through my own journey with disordered eating, perfectionism, and overworking, I’ve learned that healing doesn’t happen through more pressure or productivity. It happens when we slow down, get honest, and reconnect with the parts of us that have been trying to keep us safe.
I’m passionate about creating spaces—on the podcast, at retreats, and in real life—where brave therapists and healing professionals can share their stories, reconnect with their creativity, and feel seen in all their parts. When I’m not hosting conversations or gathering community, I’m parenting two amazing kids with my partner in Grand Rapids, Michigan, talking to my pug Teddy in a ridiculous voice, or dancing again after a 20-year break. (Contemporary and jazz 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
Want thoughtful, real talk in your inbox about creativity, body trust, and courageous work?
Join the email community for podcast drops, upcoming events, and powerful tools to support your growth.