Clinical Director, Brentwood Counselling Centre

This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Dr. Gloria Lee, a seasoned psychologist with over 25 years of experience and Clinical Director at Brentwood Counselling Centre. With a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and a Master of Counselling, Dr. Lee has devoted her career to evidence-based practices, specializing in couples therapy and holistic treatments that integrate Eastern and Western approaches to foster relational health.

Known as a trusted authority on relationships, Dr. Lee is also the author of The Connected Couple: 7 Secrets to Transform Your Relationship, offering profound insights into strengthening partnerships. Her commitment to shaping the next generation of therapists is evident in her work as a teacher and mentor at the University of British Columbia and Trinity Western University. Dr. Lee is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and is a facilitator of Dr. Brené Brown’s Daring Way™ program.

Reflecting on her career, Dr. Lee shares, “Mentoring the next generation of therapists is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. It’s about giving back, just as my own mentors once guided me.”

In this interview, we explore her journey, her passion for mentorship, and her advice for early-career therapists navigating the complexities of modern psychology.

INTERVIEW

1. How has your journey as a psychologist evolved over the past 25 years?

My passion for helping people with relational issues, especially attachment wounds and trauma, has remained constant. What has evolved is my focus from working with clients only to teaching and mentoring younger therapists. Because mentoring was pivotal in my career, I began to supervise practicum students and interns and mentor new career therapists. This eventually led to the teaching of graduate students at universities. Today, I split my time between clinical practice, teaching, supervising, and mentoring.   

2. As an adjunct professor and supervisor, what key qualities do you consider essential for nurturing the next generation of therapists?

I look back to the professors and supervisors I’ve had over the years and ask myself what helped me to grow the most as a therapist. The key qualities I try to embody include humility to learn from students, joy in witnessing their growth, vision for their potential, and speaking the truth in love to create a safe environment for learning and growth. 

3. How did you start your career in teaching and mentoring? What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing a similar path?

I was fortunate to have wonderful teachers and supervisors over my career, many of whom I still have a relationship with. They encouraged and provided opportunities for me to teach and supervise. My advice is to find a trustworthy teacher or supervisor and learn everything you can from them. Know that most educators and mentors enjoy investing in students who are hungry to learn and eager to grow.

4. Balancing the demands of your private practice with teaching and mentoring can be challenging. How do you manage these responsibilities effectively?

To be honest, I’m guilty of not being the best at balancing these demands. There are seasons of busyness and times of rest. I reduce clinical work when teaching and mentoring. I teach only two semesters per year and one course at a time, taking the summers off. I follow my mentor’s advice to divide my schedule into three blocks, mornings, afternoons, and evenings, committing to filling only two with work and leaving one for rest and play. It’s one of the best advice I’ve ever had. 

5. What aspects of teaching and mentoring do you find most fulfilling and rewarding?

The most rewarding moments are when students and mentees apply what they've learned and achieve great results. Their confidence and joy in these key moments are thrilling and motivating.

6. What advice would you offer to a new therapist who is just embarking on their career in psychology?

I tell new therapists that the real learning begins after graduation. Theory doesn't always equate to reality, and it's okay to struggle at first. Ongoing support is crucial, and thinking you've already "made it" can be detrimental to your growth as a therapist.

7. Could you discuss the significance of supervision and continuous learning for therapists at various stages of their careers?

I believe in being a lifelong learner. I still meet with my mentors from time to time. The field of psychology is constantly evolving, so continuous learning is essential. It's also important to learn from people of different cultures and backgrounds to broaden your perspective beyond Western approaches.

8. In your experience, what are the most common challenges faced by new therapists, and how do you help them overcome these obstacles?

Many new therapists graduate with more theory than practice and often enter solo or group practices without further supervision. This can lead to stunted growth and reluctance to seek help. I encourage my students to find mentors after graduation and emphasize that seeking mentorship is courageous and beneficial.

9. Can you recall a significant mentor who inspired you, and how have they shaped your approach to psychology?

I've been fortunate to have three significant mentors: one who taught me to be a master therapist, another who modelled servant leadership, and a third who trained me to be a teacher with a growth mindset. I still meet with these mentor-friends, two of whom I've known for over 25 years.

10. Is there a book, podcast, or resource that has significantly deepened your understanding of psychology or influenced your practice?

There are too many to mention. Let me just note a few of my favourites: Gabor Maté, Bessel Van Der Kolk, Judith Herman, Brené Brown, Esther Perel, John Bowlby, Pia Mellody, Terry Real, Sue Johnson, and John and Julie Gottman. I consider them geniuses in their field and have great respect for them. Their work has deeply influenced both my practice and personal life.  

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