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.

    Book with Elise

  • 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.

    Book with Marcia

  • 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.

    Book with Keith

  • KATIE BURDEN

    MCP-AT, RCC

    Katie's practice stands out with a genuine passion for teen development, blending empathetic listening with evidence-based techniques. She empowers adolescents through skill-building and tailored interventions, fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and lifelong coping strategies.

    Book with Katie

  • JENNY GILMOUR

    MTA

    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.

    Book with Jenny

  • 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.

    Book with Emily