Testimonials

I had the distinct honour of facilitating a DBT group with Andrea several years ago. She was astute, perceptive, and wise in her ability to teach and support clients in this setting.  As an occupational therapist, she has supported countless clients in rebuilding a strong and meaningful foundation for a better quality of life.  Andrea respects and connects with those who are exquisitely sensitive beings in this world and who are ready to access effective tools to navigate difficult emotions, situations, and relationships. I have watched her take hold of this amazing and wondrous form of therapy, and I know that her intelligence and commitment will shine through for those who attend her groups.  

Colleen Griffin MSW RSW RCC

Family Therapist with Vancouver Coastal Health (since 2004)

DBT trained Facilitator (since 2010)

Having co-facilitated many therapeutic group sessions with Gill, I can testify to her excellence in all spheres. Gill has years of experience in leading group psychotherapy. She brings empathy, inclusion and wisdom to the room. Gill is creative and very conscientious, always looking for ways to enrich the group experience for all participants. Anyone is fortunate who is accepted into a group that Gill facilitates.

Rosalind Irving, Registered Clinical Counselor

B.A. (Hons, Canterbury) Dip. Ed .(Oxford) M.Ed. (UBC)

DBT is a powerful modality that I have personally integrated into my life. As a result I have made profound changes in my life. The biggest one was identifying self-harm as a behaviour rather than a symptom. By doing that, I was able to incorporate more effective behaviours to get what I need. Who better to guide you through this DBT adventure in your life than Andrea and Gill. They are sincere and honest in their approach and have a strong backing and experience in DBT. They will create a safe and comfortable atmosphere for you to learn about and integrate DBT into your life like I have.

Debbie Sesula, MA, RTC, CPS, Coordinator

North Shore Peer Support Program, Adult Community Mental Health Services, The HOpe Center

I have consulted with Andrea extensively on using DBT with clients who have not been helped by other therapeutic modalities. I am genuinely impressed by her ability to integrate DBT skills adeptly and compassionately into her work with clients. Straight-shooting yet warm (and not without humour), Andrea guides her clients to a place of improved self worth, healthier relationships, and a calmer mind.

Elana Sures, M.Ed,RCC

Clinical Director of Open Space Counselling

I have known Gill for about 10 years and have worked with her co-facilitating the IPSRT (Interpersonal Social Rhythms Therapy) program in person for the last 6 years and on Zoom since the start of COVID. Gill is a consummate professional, blending a compassionate and attuned approach with evidence based scientific principles and a deep understanding of how to work with challenging material.

Nat Brewer
Peer Support Worker,  HOpe Center Inpatient Unit and Older Adult Program
Youth Worker, Carlile Youth Concurrent Disorder Centre

Andrea is an amazing human being! I have repeatedly been impressed with her innovation, motivation, and ability to see and find value where others may not. Her dedication to helping others improve their lives shines through in all that she does. She is observant, attentive, curious, open, caring, and thorough—all great qualities for a group facilitator. As a facilitator of mental health and well-being groups myself, I can see how Andrea’s attributes are so well suited. One of the things I admire most about Andrea is how well-thought she is; her questions are inquisitive, poignant, and get to the heart of the matter. This skill, paired with how understanding she is, really helps to form the connection I believe to be essential for a therapeutic relationship. I am so excited that Andrea continues to shine her light on the world; she makes it a better place.

Dave Robens, BA Psych, M.O.T.

Founder, Men’s Group Vancouver