Bridgid McGowan
As
someone who has personally experienced trauma, bereavement, chronic illness,
and the challenges of coming out as a lesbian and not fitting in with the norm, I know how it feels to be stuck when you just
want to get on with having a satisfying and meaningful life. My commitment to
engage with life fully, and my awareness of the kinds of internal and external
barriers that can make that difficult, are what led me to want to help you
do the same.
I started working as a counsellor, educator, researcher and activist in the 1980’s when I became a rape crisis counsellor working with survivors of sexualized assault, and childhood sexualized abuse. Over the past 25 years, I have worked in the areas of trauma, substance use and bereavement, including working as a trauma counsellor, program manager, and clinical supervisor in a non-profit agency dedicated to creating safety for those victimized through violence. I have also worked as a spiritual director in earth-based spiritual communities in Canada and the US.
I have a Masters degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counselling, and have a keen interest in integrating clients personal and community experiences of spirituality into counselling. I am a registered member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, and participate in ongoing clinical supervision with qualified therapeutic supervisors to ensure I provide the best service possible.
I am a student of Buddhist meditation practice, and my work is also influenced by my history as a singer/songwriter/composer and performance artist. I enjoy integrating art, music, and writing into my counselling work with individuals and groups.
I started working as a counsellor, educator, researcher and activist in the 1980’s when I became a rape crisis counsellor working with survivors of sexualized assault, and childhood sexualized abuse. Over the past 25 years, I have worked in the areas of trauma, substance use and bereavement, including working as a trauma counsellor, program manager, and clinical supervisor in a non-profit agency dedicated to creating safety for those victimized through violence. I have also worked as a spiritual director in earth-based spiritual communities in Canada and the US.
I have a Masters degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counselling, and have a keen interest in integrating clients personal and community experiences of spirituality into counselling. I am a registered member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, and participate in ongoing clinical supervision with qualified therapeutic supervisors to ensure I provide the best service possible.
I am a student of Buddhist meditation practice, and my work is also influenced by my history as a singer/songwriter/composer and performance artist. I enjoy integrating art, music, and writing into my counselling work with individuals and groups.
