Meet Rena Berktin

Professional Art Psychotherapist, RP (Qualifying)

The first time I watched someone discover their own strength through a simple drawing, I knew I’d found my calling. Art therapy isn’t just my profession—it’s my deep belief in the profound healing that happens when creativity meets compassionate support.

My Journey to This Work

Art has always been a language of healing for me, but my path to becoming an art therapist felt like all my experiences finally coming together in the most meaningful way. Having always been passionate about both creativity and supporting others, I discovered that art therapy allowed me to honor both these loves while witnessing transformation in ways I’d never imagined possible.

My decade in education taught me that everyone learns and heals differently. Some people process through words, others through movement, and many through creative expression. This experience continues to shape how I meet you exactly where you are in your healing journey.

What Drives My Passion

Every session reaffirms my belief in the healing power of creative expression. I’ve seen art therapy reach places that traditional approaches sometimes can’t touch. In my years of practice, I’ve watched a shy 8-year-old discover her voice through colorful self-portraits, seen anxious teens find calm through mindful clay work, and witnessed new mothers process overwhelming emotions through gentle creative expression.

These moments remind me daily why this work matters. There’s something magical about the moment when someone realizes they’ve expressed something important through their art—something they couldn’t quite put into words but needed to share.

A Personal Understanding

As a mother myself, I understand the complex emotions that come with parenting—the joy, the overwhelm, the identity shifts that nobody quite prepares you for. This personal experience deepens my empathy when working with families navigating similar journeys. Whether you’re a new parent feeling lost in your changing identity or an experienced parent facing new challenges, I bring both professional expertise and lived understanding to our work together.

My Educational Foundation

My journey reflects the integration of art, psychology, and education:

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts
Bachelor of Education with a minor in Psychology
Graduate Diploma from the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (DCiiAT)
Ontario College of Teachers Certification (OCT)
Over 10 years of hands-on experience in education and mental health

Research consistently shows the effectiveness of art therapy in reducing anxiety, processing trauma, and improving emotional regulation. The simple act of creating, combined with therapeutic guidance, can unlock new perspectives and pathways to healing.

You might be wondering if therapy is right for you, or feeling nervous about trying something new. That's completely natural. My role is to create a space where you feel genuinely seen and supported, whether we're talking, creating, or simply sitting together in your experience. I believe in meeting you exactly where you are. Some days that might mean working with vibrant acrylics to express joy or frustration. Other days it might involve gentle conversation while our hands stay busy with clay. My favorite mediums are sculpture and acrylics, but honestly, hand me some permanent markers and I'm ready to explore whatever creative direction feels right for you.

Children and Adolescents

Young people have taught me so much about resilience and creativity. I love watching children and teens discover their own voices through art, building confidence and emotional skills that extend far beyond our sessions. Whether a child is navigating big feelings, social challenges, or family changes, art provides a natural language for expression and growth.

Women at All Life Stages

The journey of being a woman comes with unique joys and challenges. Whether you’re a young woman exploring identity, navigating career pressures, or processing relationship dynamics, I understand the complexity of these experiences and offer a space for authentic exploration.

Mothers and Parents

From the overwhelming beauty of new motherhood to the ongoing challenges of raising children, parenting brings profound transformation. I work with mothers processing postpartum experiences, navigating identity shifts, and seeking support through the beautiful complexity of raising little humans.

Parent-Child Connections

Some of my most rewarding work happens when families create together. These sessions offer beautiful opportunities for strengthening bonds, improving communication, and understanding each other in new ways through shared creative experiences.

Who I Love Working With

Through my years in education and mental health, I’ve developed a special passion for supporting:

My Unique Approach

What makes our work together special is the integration of my diverse experiences. My background in education helps me understand developmental needs and learning styles. My artistic training brings depth to creative exploration. My experience as a mother adds genuine empathy to family work. And my mental health training ensures our work together is both meaningful and professionally grounded.

I’m passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Seeking support is an act of courage and self-care, never weakness. Whether you’re facing specific challenges or simply seeking personal growth, therapy offers valuable tools for creating positive change.

Professional Standing

Your therapeutic journey is supported by extensive training and ongoing professional development:

Professional Art Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)
Member in good standing with the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA)
Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) certified
Committed to ongoing learning and professional growth

Beyond the Therapy Room

When I'm not working with clients, you'll find me immersed in learning, reading about new therapeutic approaches, and exploring artistic techniques. I love spending time with my spouse and children, which keeps me grounded and reminds me daily of the importance of nurturing our emotional wellbeing and family connections. This balance of professional growth and family life enriches both my personal experience and my work with clients.

Our Work Together

Every client brings their own unique story, challenges, and strengths to our therapeutic relationship. My role is to provide a safe container for your exploration and growth, offering professional guidance while deeply respecting your autonomy and inner wisdom. Whether you're drawn to creative expression, prefer traditional therapeutic conversation, or want to explore a combination of both, we'll discover together what feels most supportive for your healing journey. No artistic experience is necessary—it's truly all about the journey of discovery and expression. If you prefer traditional talk therapy, that's wonderful too. We'll find the approach that resonates most deeply with your needs and comfort level.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

If you’re curious about how art therapy or traditional counseling might support your path forward, I’d love to connect with you. Let’s start with a free 15-minute consultation to explore how we might work together and address any questions you have about the therapeutic process.

Practical Information

Sessions conducted in English
Virtual sessions available across Canada
In-person sessions available in Thornhill, Canada
Based in Toronto, Canada (EST timezone)
Evening and lunch time appointments available for your convenience
Both individual and family sessions offered

Transform Through Creativity

Ready to explore how art therapy can support your journey? Schedule your free consultation today and discover the power of creative expression in healing and growth.