Mara Gilbert, Intern Counsellor

Hi there! I’m Mara — a student counselling intern from sunny Arizona, now soaking up the coastal beauty of British Columbia.

My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to your unique needs and values. I want you to envision what a meaningful life looks like to you, and we’ll work together to move toward it. In sessions, I draw from CBT and ACT, balancing validation with practical strategies for managing unhelpful patterns. I believe in the power of “living uncertain” — finding resilience, courage, and even some humour in life’s unpredictability.

Over the years, I’ve built a strong foundation through academic and hands-on experience through clinical research and working with children and adults navigating emotional challenges and complex life transitions. I have a special interest in obsessive-compulsive and related disorders — so if you often feel stuck, stressed, or uneasy when faced with an interrupted routine, we could be a great match! 

I try to maintain a “no buts” policy: instead of saying “but”, I prefer to use “and” because two things can be true at once (e.g., I can do this, and I am feeling afraid.”) Holding both allows space for personal growth and integrity. On that note, I believe each person already holds inner strength, and sometimes it takes time and encouragement to find it – much like in those movies where the superhero is beginning to discover their powers. Wherever you’re starting from in this process, I am looking forward to meeting you there with curiosity and compassion.