Biography
My name is Gillian and I am a Master’s-level Art Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist
(CRPO Qualifying), art educator, and professional artist.
My Practice
My journey into the field of mental health has been shaped by a long and committed art practice, genuine empathy and compassion for people, as well as a deep fascination with the human condition. After many years working in the arts, I transitioned into the field of
mental health. This change was prompted by my own meaningful experiences working with a psychotherapist and my later role in the Therapeutic Creative Arts department at a long- term care facility in Ottawa, Ontario. These personal and professional encounters made
clear to me the profound impact that art therapy and psychotherapy can have on one’s emotional well-being.
I work with children, teens, adults, and older adults (65+) who may be going through difficult life transitions, dealing with loss, loneliness, depression, anxiety, burnout, overwhelm or feelings of isolation. I have extensive experience working with individuals living with physical,
developmental, and cognitive disabilities including dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
I provide a welcoming and empowering environment for my clients, where they can address life’s challenges, reduce stress, and discover inspiration in their lives. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and focused on building on each client’s personal strengths. I
tailor sessions to meet each client’s unique needs, offering talk psychotherapy or art therapy as preferred.
I use an integrative approach and incorporate evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy when needed. My goal is to create an accessible, inclusive, and culturally-sensitive therapy practice.
If you believe that you or a loved one could benefit from working together, I would love to connect with you. No prior art experience is needed—just a willingness to explore something new.