At the core of Gillian’s theoretical approach is connection, empathy, collaboration and empowerment. Her focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship ensures that every client feels safe and unconditionally supported as she guides them in developing greater self-awareness. She utilizes an integrated approach in her work with children and families, drawing from Expressive Art and Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based Therapies and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Safe and secure attachment relationships are the foundation of healthy family systems. A significant part of Gillian’s work with families is to support parents and caregivers in repairing and strengthening attachment with their children in hopes of creating more understanding, connection and joy into their homes.

Having experienced anxiety and panic since her early teenage years, Gillian has a keen ability in making her clients feel understood and validated in their pursuit of mental well-being. Much of her self-care practice involves spending time in nature and connecting with animals, and she strives to bring these aspects of mindfulness and Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) into her work with children, youth and adults.