A Conversation with Emma McLellan, Clinic Director
Emma McLellan is our Clinical Director and Counsellor at Lynn Valley Counselling. A passionate advocate for social justice, Emma has experience working with women who have experienced violence in all forms. Emma believes in the mind-body connection to emotional and physical health and works to build a safe, calming space for her clients to do their work.
Let’s find out more about Emma and why she decided to enter into this field of healing and connection.
How did you get into counselling?
I first became interested in counselling after I started seeing my own therapist as a teenager. Her ability to connect with me and support my healing fascinated me. It drove me to explore and pursue a major in psychology in my undergrad. Learning about the human mind and how we work is so interesting.
Everyday I get to connect with brilliant people, and the trust that our clients give us in helping them grow and heal is such a special thing. Couselling is more than a job to me – It’s a passion. One that I am grateful I get to explore every day.
Why did you start Lynn Valley Counselling?
LVC was started with a vision of creating a wellness center for the community I grew up in. I wanted to establish a calming, welcoming space for individuals, couples, and families to seek support. My goal is to bring safety, empathy, and compassion into the counselling space.
I want to create a community of like minded therapists who hold similar values and who can support one another. My hope is to grow LVC into a safe space for the community to come to, complete with workshops and support groups.
What values does LVC adhere to?
We have four core values that guide the practice: respect, inclusivity, safety, and truth. These are not just professional values, but also personal values I strive to live by every day. Without these things, we as counsellors cannot make valuable connections, which is the core of all therapeutic growth.
What areas interest you the most?
My areas of specialty are grief and loss and violence against women. However, I really enjoy working with older teens and adults. I primarily work with individuals through depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues, as well as life transitions. I also enjoy working with couples and finding ways to help them work through what they are experiencing.
What is your general philosophy and approach to healing?
I believe in your inner wisdom and offering guidance and support in a non-directive way. I work with you to unpack your inner challenges and achieve the goals you have set for yourself. I believe in the connection of the mind and the body and the importance of mindfulness. However, it is important to note that each client has different beliefs and needs, and I work to tailor my approach for each client’s unique needs.
How should I prepare for my first session with you?
It’s easy, just bring yourself! It can be challenging to take that first step, and the idea of having to prepare for a session can be daunting.
In our first session you can expect us to go through a series of intake questions which will act as a guide for our time together. However, if you are someone who likes to prepare ahead of time, we recommend starting to think deeply about the why. Why are you seeking counselling at this time? If you have past experiences with counselling, what were the things you liked and didn’t like, and what are your goals?
Ok, enough of the serious stuff, what do you like to do outside of work?
When I’m not at work, you can find me hiking in and around the North Shore with my husband and new puppy! Or cuddling with my cat and reading a book while enjoying an oat milk latte. I also really enjoy practicing yoga.
Ready to get started on your healing journey? Reach out to Emma McLellan today.
