Janina Gillespie, Registered Psychotherapist

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”
- Viktor Frankl

Janina is a Registered Psychotherapist dedicated to supporting individuals and couples through life’s challenges with compassion, curiosity and care. Her clinical focus is on relationships and relational disconnection, particularly working with individuals and couples navigating betrayal, sexual and intimacy concerns, recurring conflict and emotional distance. She is interested in understanding the patterns that develop between people and how these patterns can leave partners feeling hurt, misunderstood, or disconnected from one another. She believes our closest relationships are at the core of what makes life feel worthwhile, and when they’re in distress, everything else can feel like it’s falling apart.

In addition to her work with individuals and couples, Janina has a particular interest in trauma and supporting those navigating the psychological impact of distressing or traumatic experiences. She works with individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress, including first responders and those who have sustained physical injuries in the workplace and are navigating the emotional and psychological challenges that can follow. She also works with individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, interpersonal violence, and other adverse life experiences that continue to affect their sense of self, emotional well-being, and relationships.

With over a decade of experience in the social services, Janina has supported individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges, including mental health concerns, addictions, relationship difficulties, traumatic events and navigating high-conflict situations. Working in child welfare, Janina obtained a wealth of experience breaking down complex situations into manageable steps, helping clients feel less overwhelmed and more empowered. Using a strength-based and client-centered approach, Janina supports clients in recognizing their resilience, cultivating self-compassion, and taking positive steps forward.

Janina holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Social Service Worker Diploma. With a belief that there is no one size fits all to therapy, Janina draws from different therapeutic modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy to ensure that treatment meets the unique needs of each individual or couple. 

Outside of the therapy room, Janina is an outdoor enthusiast, animal lover, and globetrotter who believes in finding joy in life’s small moments. Spending time with her young family, starting yet another home renovation project and exploring local trails with her dogs is how she spends her free time.