Gillian Smith Bio Page | Adler University

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Overview

As a University instructor, I aim to inspire my students and perpetuate a passion for the practice of counselling. More specifically, as a practicing academic, school counsellor and teacher who has worked with all ages, I introduce students to a vast array of practical activities and the application of various theories and contemporary approaches. To this end, I seek a balance between student self-directed research, lectures, course readings and asking students to engage with the topic at hand vis-a-vis facilitation of participatory dialogue. I believe the study of counselling practice should be an invitation to investigate more deeply the potential of social justice initiatives and the active practice of compassion. This approach, along with evidence-based research enables students to be prepared to work effectively as counsellors.

I have confidence in a flexible manner of instruction, responsive to the unique learning needs of each individual and every class. I want to show that the field of counselling responds to various modes of inquiry and perspectives. Thus, students are encouraged to explore the possibilities of various theoretical and practical applications in their counselling work and push beyond their own experience to sharpen their critical skills. Having taught a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses over the past fourteen years, I am continuously thriving to make lessons and class discussions fresh and engaging. To study and engage in understandings that broaden our perspective of mental and ecological health, invariably connects us to our mutual humanness. The most fulfilling moments of my professional life are engaging with students on compelling, engaging and inspirational clinical, ecological, educational and philosophical themes.

My research interests include counselling with children and youth, counselling in a school setting, clinical issues in children, narrative inquiry, and ecopsychology.

Education

Ph.D., Curriculum Theory and Implementation with a Philosophy of Education, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia.

M.A., Counselling Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia.

P.D.P., Category six professional teaching certificate, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia.

B.A., Psychology, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario.

Professional Memberships

Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) CCPA-ACPA Chapter Memberships: Counselling Supervision, School Counselling and Career Counselling. Vancouver Area Counsellors’ Association (VACA) (1994-Present)

BC School Counsellor’s Association (1994-2006)

Vancouver Elementary and Secondary Teachers’ Association (VESTA)

Vancouver Campus

Adler University in Vancover has been, like Canada itself, born and built with an open mind. Located in the midst of one of the world’s most exciting and breathtaking cities, Adler University reflects a true Canadian spirit. It’s smart, inclusive and determined to make a world of difference. By design, our Vancover campus echoes the Adler values and intent down every hall and in every room. It is built to live, breathe and inspire those with the passion to pursue a more just society. This is where the work gets done.

At Adler Vancover, you’ll find multiple collaborative areas with the absolute latest technology. Learning areas and windows have literally been situtated to stimulate thought. To some, that may sound odd, but these things do matter. If students are given the space, opportunity and technology to achieve their goals, they are more likely to rock the boat of conventional thought.