Riverwalk Counselling Services

My name is Robyn Mott, PhD. Most people arrive in my office because something in their lives is not the way they want it to be. The “something” is different for everyone, however, they share a common desire to feel connected and to live life more full

I feel deeply privileged and humbled by the opportunity to work with people who are seeking deeper and richer connections in their relationships and to life. Together we teach and learn from one another in ever expanding ways. Each year, my appreciation, understanding and reverence for the human experience – its complexity, depth and richness – grows deeper.

In my practice I meet people of all walks of life, experiencing a variety of life’s challenges – I love the breadth of this diversity. Within this general practice, I feel particularly drawn in the following areas:

-Living with Dying
(death and dying / bereavement / loss / grief)

I have had the enormous privilege and honour to work with many individuals “walking close to death”. Individuals, families and friends who have had to face their own or a loved one’s end of life due to terminal or potentially terminal illness; need for an organ transplant; an unexpected accident or because they are finding it difficult to stay in life (contemplating suicide).

-Trauma

Trauma is anything that happens to us in life that our autonomic nervous system cannot process in the usual way in that moment. It occurs as a result of many, many life experiences and events. Continually held in our bodies, trauma can keep us from feeling connected to ourselves, others and life.

It is important for people to know that there are many ways to address traumatic events and experiences.

I consider it an honour to be asked to work with those who have experienced sexual trauma, military personnel returning from combat, individuals living with deep grief and loss; and individuals whose connections have been interrupted by less obvious yet profoundly life altering traumatic events.

-Depression and Anxiety

-Chronic and Acute Illness and Pain

People living with chronic illness and pain often find themselves in the juxtaposition of predictability and complete unpredictability. They may feel their bodies have betrayed them and turned their lives upside down. In addition to other processes of dealing with chronic pain, I integrate a systemic approach to support these individuals in developing a very different relationship with chronic illness and pain.

-Relationships

Our connections (disconnections) within our relationships are influenced and impacted by many factors. The relationships within our family of origin influence our future relationships in family and groups. Our intimate relationships are influenced by the bonding and attachment process we had when very young. Our past relationships impact our future relationships. The life experiences of our parents and grandparents also affect our relationships (family systemic patterns). Each person brings into a relationship a myriad of life experiences that impact their capacity for connection and healthy relationships.

When we begin to understand and appreciate the richness and complexity of every relationship, we become more understanding, compassionate and tolerant with ourselves and each-other. We begin to see where disconnections have occurred and find ways to reconnect with ourselves and others.

I work with individuals, couples (traditional and non-traditional), families and groups who desire stronger connections within their relationships and lives.

-In addition, I offer support in the following areas:

Relationship Issues
Sexuality (sexual health and fulfillment, sexual intimacy and sexual function)
Reproductive Health (i. e. fertility, PMS, menopause)
Eating Disorders
Stress management
Addictions & self soothing (i. e. drugs, alcohol, food)