Meet Our Team
Meet the compassionate and dedicated team behind The Woods.
ELISE GIRARDIN
Executive Director, MA, MCP-AT, RCC
Elise is committed to supporting people’s growth, healing, and self-discovery through engagement with the arts. She has extensive experience in the performing arts, which underscores her approach to wellness. Elise work in visual arts, movement and dance, theatre arts, and poetry and writing.
ILEAH SNELL
RCC & Art Therapy Intern
Ileah is completing her Masters in Counseling Psychology and Art Therapy at Adler University and, upon completion of practicum hours, will be awarded the title of RCC and professional art therapist. She comes with years of experience with Battered Women's Support Services, working as a support worker and group facilitator, and additional training in trauma treatment.
MARCIA CLINGMAN
MCP-AT, RCC
Marcia is a registered clinical counsellor working with adults and youth who have experienced anxiety, depression and grief relating to traumatic experiences. She offers an integrative approach to healing based on somatic (body-based) awareness, breathwork, yoga and art therapy.
SEIA ROOTS
RCC & Art Therapy Intern
Seia is completing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology - Art Therapy at Adler University and, upon fulfillment of all practicum hours, will be granted the title of RCC and Professional Art Therapist. She is honoured to support people’s growth and find creative ways through adversity. Seia comes to The Woods with years of professional experience in the mental health field.
Emily Thompson
Studio Manager, RYT
Emily brings a unique approach to yoga, blending mindfulness with a functional movement framework that accommodates all body types and abilities. Her classes are a reflection of her commitment to making yoga and mindfulness accessible and transformative for everyone.
KEITH THURLOW-BISHOP
MA, MSc, PhD, RCC-ACS, RCAT, REAT
Keith has been working in the field of mental health since 1990, and as a licensed mental health professional since 2004. As an expressive arts therapist, he works with visual arts, textiles, poetry, movement, drama, and somatic awareness to support healing and growth. He has extensive experience working with people healing from experiences of trauma, abuse, neglect, and the ongoing effects of colonization and marginalization.
JENNY GILMOUR
MT-BC
Jenny is a compassionate and dedicated music therapist with extensive experience in acute palliative and hospice care settings, and has witnessed firsthand the profound impact that music can have on individuals facing challenging circumstances.