Jenifer Giles

Registered Professional Counsellor

We all want lives filled with joy, connection and purpose. My wish for each client is that they grow in their ability to make healthy, meaningful and lasting changes to move them ever closer to this reality. To assist clients in this endeavour I draw upon a wide range of tools and methods to address the needs of each individual or couple. My counselling style is interactive and dynamic.

Each client has unique needs and goals for counselling. Some are a little ‘stuck’ and need new tools. Others have become disconnected from their internal and external resources, strengths and natural wisdom. When these are reactivated and validated new opportunities for growth are available. Additionally it can be beneficial to explore the beliefs we have assumed about who we are and our place in the world as these unexamined messages impact the choices we make.

Relationships, whether with our life partner, family members, friends or work colleagues are central to our happiness and wellbeing. When they’re working well we feel uplifted and content. Exploring the interactions and beliefs that each person brings to the relationship opens the door to new possibilities and an increased closeness and loving connection

When one partner is unable to come to counselling the question often asked by the other partner is “can I make a difference in this relationship on my own”? The answer is a resounding yes! The changes just one person can make in a relationship by changing their side of the interaction can be very empowering. Of course, when the partners are both actively working for the good of the relationship the changes are magnified.

Sometimes counselling comes after the relationship is over. When relationships end it’s common to feel lonely, sad and even fearful and our self-esteem can diminish. This phase is temporary but it can certainly feel all consuming at the time. People often ask themselves ‘what went wrong’, ‘why did it end’ and ‘how can I make good decisions next time’. Together we can explore these questions to give you a sense of perspective and far greater confidence in your ability to form healthy, lasting bonds in the future.

Since 1988 I have specialized in relationship therapy as well as working with individuals challenged by depression, poor self esteem, anxiety and loneliness. My training was in England at Relate (previously called the National Marriage Guidance Council), a nation-wide counselling agency. In l990 I moved to Canada where I completed a Certificate of Counselling Science. I am a member of the Canadian Counselling Association and the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.

It is important that you feel comfortable with the counsellor you choose. Please feel free to call me so we can have a chat on the telephone before booking your initial appointment.