Practice information

I have a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I regularly update my skills by participating in professional development workshops and programs. I am also an experienced family life educator and a group facilitator.

My theoretical orientation, while generally considered to be eclectic (borrowing from several different theories), leans more towards a "psychodynamic" approach - which means I believe that our early learned behaviours, experiences and feelings from childhood onwards have a critical effect on our lives and relationships in the present time. Some of these continue to work well for us. Others we would do well to discard - especially the ones which seem to get in the way of our ability to have satisfying relationships.

For some clients, other forms of therapy are more appropriate. For short-term problems, I practice solution-focused therapy; for depression and anxiety, I borrow more from cognitive behavioural therapy.

In my private practice I have been assisting individual and couples with their relationship issues for more than 15 years. I am an experienced family life educator and group facilitator, and my workshops have included such topics as becoming single again, midlife transitions and grandparenting today.

I also undertake contract work for Employee and Family Assistance Programs, covering a wide range of issues - from workplace problems, such as harassment and bullying, to any relationship or family - centered difficulties which interfere with work performance.

To contact me please call 604.722.3027, or e-mail me at info@gillianmclean.com to arrange a free introductory session.