About John

Having completed over 2000 sessions to date as a professional therapist, John Tzavelas knows that he has been put on this earth to do therapy. From childhood, John has expressed an interest in understanding human psychology from a non-judgmental perspective. He has been studious from a young age, and has always excelled at whatever he studies. More importantly, all of his academic background, seminary training and clinical experience have taught him one important thing: how to listen. John is known for his gentle but professional touch, his ability to never embarrass others, and his deep understanding of why people do the things that they do. Most of all, he brings to his practice a full awareness of the profession, a complete knowledge of the psychological terminology needed to practise effectively, and a refreshing simplicity to his sessions. John’s clients know him as a person of learning and wisdom who is good at providing them with sound advice for their lives.

Academic Background

• Bachelor of Arts
  Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy
  Three Year Program, Toronto, Ontario
• Graduate Level Studies
  Pontifical Institute of Medieval Studies
  One Year, Toronto, Ontario
• Master of Arts
  Saint Vladimir’s Seminary
  Two Year Program, Tuckahoe, New York
• Diploma in Psychotherapy
  The Living Institute
  Three Year Graduate Level Program, Toronto, Ontario

Clinical Training and Experience

• Religious Counsellor
  2001-2005
  Various Greek Orthodox Parishes in North America
• Intern Therapist
  The Living Institute
  2018-2020
• Professional Therapist and Counsellor
  St. Nicholas Counselling (Formerly Redwood Therapy Services)
  2018-Present

About Approach

John’s approach to therapy is unique. His attempt is to take what is complicated and make it simple. Psychotherapeutic and psychological ideas can be complicated and difficult to understand. More importantly, they can often make the client feel confused and lacking in the ability to apply these ideas to their everyday lives. John takes pride in challenging himself to provide his clients with a simple but effective approach that leaves clients feeling as if their lives are better by applying what is learned in sessions. More importantly, the overall relationship clients experience with John is one of security, stability and deep caring. He never forgets that he is a person too with the same struggles and trials as his clients, and so his approach is unique because it not only draws on his education, but also on the wisdom he has gained from his own life’s struggles, which are many!

About Sessions

Individual therapy sessions are always designed around the ongoing needs of the client. Time is taken in the first two or three sessions to draw out the needs of the client, and then each session thereafter is designed specifically to meet these individual needs. This is done by the therapist taking the time to bring to memory these needs moments before every session so that each session feels like it is connected to the ones previous to it never missing a beat. This makes the client feel special and unique, as if they are the only person that matters during that hour-long session, which is critical to effective therapy. And, although sessions are always professional and consistent, John attempts to bring a certain lightness and humour to his delivery.