Erica McGill, MEd, RCT, CCC
Director, Student Resource Centre

Erica received her BA and M.Ed from Acadia University. She has experience in both university counselling centers and private practice settings. She has completed training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and works from a client-centered approach with experience in Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. She works with individuals, couples, and groups on issues related to anxiety, depression, stress, anger, LGBTQ, gender, relationship and interpersonal concerns.

 

Sarah Pittoello, RCT-C, MEd, MSc
Sarah received her BScH in Astrophysics from Queen's University, a MSc. in Holistic Science from Schumacher College, and M.Ed. in Counselling from Acadia University. Sarah has experience working both in university counselling centers and in private practice. Sarah has been teaching yoga and mindfulness groups for the past 12 years, and brings a body-centered, mindfulness-based approach to her work. Sarah offers mindfulness groups on campus and in the community. Sarah is also an organic farmer, active in Wolfville's local food movement, and teaches each spring in Acadia's Community Development department.

Gina Spidle, MEd, CCC, RCT-C
Gina received her BA(soc) from Saint Mary’s University, Corrections Diploma from Success College and M.Ed in Counselling from Acadia University. Gina works from a client centered, solution focused approach and has training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety/stress, eating disorders and addictions. She is also the Career Counsellor and can help you explore your ideas about your future.

Gina believes that mind and body must work together, and just like we need to follow a plan to stay physically healthy, we also need to follow a plan to be mentally healthy.

 

Balliett Thun, PhD (Bus), MEd, BA, BS
Bally’s educational background includes a PhD in Business from Saint Mary’s University and an MEd and CAGS from the University of Massachusetts (Amherst). 30 years of practice and study has shown Bally that each of us has unique desires, resources, and capabilities. Bally’s goal is to help individuals feel more hopeful, competent, and confident in their daily lives and futures.

Julia Wassef, MA, MEd, CCC, RCT-C
Julia’s educational background includes a M.A. (Sociology) from Dalhousie University, a M.Ed (Counselling) from Acadia University, and a graduate certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy, Activities and Learning from the Institute for Human-Animal Connection at the University of Denver. Julia recognizes that university can be a challenging place with many stressors and transitions and is committed to providing a client-centered service where you feel safe and supported.

Joined by her therapy dog, Figgy Duff, Julia draws from Animal-Assisted Therapy in Counselling as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to explore a range of issues including stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, sexualized violence, and work/life balance. Julia enjoys and welcomes clients of diverse cultural backgrounds.

Julia’s passion is to work therapeutically with animals to explore areas of healthy living, mindfulness and mental wellness.

Michele Kearney
Michele is the warm and welcoming Administrative Support in the Counselling Centre. She has previously worked in the Acadia Student Health Services Clinic and has over 20 years of experience in Health Care and Administration. Michele is committed to providing support, confidentiality and assistance to students who are seeking Counselling Services.