Arlen Tom, RSW
pronouns:
he/ him
Hi! My name is Arlen, and I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW).
Life can shift in an instant, and when it does, it’s natural to feel unsteady.
You deserve care, understanding, and support, and I strive to create a space that allows you to show up just as you are; without pressure, judgment, or expectation.
Whether you’re navigating grief, identity, career changes, relationship endings, or new beginnings like parenthood, you don’t have to do it alone. There’s something powerful about being truly seen and heard by someone outside your everyday world; someone who holds space without judgment and helps you gently uncover what’s already within.
Why Did I Become A Therapist?
I became a therapist through my own experiences with therapy during a difficult time in my life. Having a neutral and attuned person through the many of life’s stages is an experience that stayed with me. It shaped not only how I understand healing, but how I show up for others. I know how heavy things can feel, and I also know that you don’t have to carry it alone.
I am honoured to be in a position of supporting others and whatever they are bringing to the counselling room.
Modalities
Relational
Narrative
Narrative
Person-centred
Solution-focused
Strengths-based
DBT
Existential
Specialties
Bi-racial identity
Masculinity
ADHD/ Neurodivergence
Grief
Parenthood
Life transitions
Existential crisis
Clinical Hours
Tuesdays - Days/ Evenings
Thursday Evenings
Education
Master of Social Work
Bachelors of Creative Writing w/ Minor in Counselling
DBT
If We Work Together, It Might Look Like…
Therapy with me is relaxed, real, and welcoming, with some humour along the way when it fits.
You don’t have to show up any particular way or have the “right words,” we’ll just start where you are. I’ll meet you as a whole person, not a label, and we’ll figure out together what actually feels helpful for you.
I try to stay flexible to your needs, your pace, and what feels comfortable, while also making space for the bigger stuff that shapes your life and experiences. I show up as myself, not a polished version, and I value honesty, mutual respect, and being able to talk things through, even when it feels messy.
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Yes. Exploring identity can feel complicated, especially when you’re navigating different cultures, expectations, or a sense of not fully belonging. Therapy can be a space to unpack those experiences at your own pace, making sense of where you come from, how you see yourself, and what feels true for you. There’s no “right” way to have an identity, and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
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That’s a valid concern. You won’t be expected to educate your therapist or prove your experiences. These conversations are approached with openness, respect, and curiosity, while also recognizing the real impact of culture, race, and systemic factors. If something feels off or misunderstood, we can talk always talk about it.
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Absolutely. Therapy can support you in understanding how ADHD might show up in your life (ex: like challenges with focus, organization, time management, or emotional regulation) whether or not you have a formal diagnosis. We can explore strategies that actually work for you, while also looking at how ADHD affects your relationships, work, and sense of self.
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This just means we are creating a space where men can explore their thoughts, feelings, and life challenges safely and without judgment. It’s about addressing issues that are sometimes harder to talk about, like stress, relationships, identity, emotions, or societal expectations of masculinity. It doesn’t require “being tough” or having all the answers. Therapy for men is about support, understanding, and finding strategies that work for you, in your own way and at your own pace.
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This is a common question for people beginning therapy, and the answer is no.
You can self‑refer and book directly with anyone on our team without needing a doctor’s note.