Quality Service, Qualified Staff
- Each of our therapists have completed thorough training in the areas of attachment, suicide assessment and intervention, and compassion fatigue.
- Therapists have also completed cross-disciplinary training in areas such as somatic awareness training, play therapy, art therapy, dissociation, yoga, Mindfulness and have strong awareness of how trauma and attachment impact and are treated accordingly.
- All approaches are evidence based or informed by current research and best practice standards.
- ATTCH staff utilize Theraplay informed techniques to promote healthy attachments in family, foster, reconciliation, and adoptive relationships (see services page for further details).
- All of our therapists do good work and work from the same foundational trauma-specific approach but each have their own area of expertise in addition to this. Intakes are reviewed by our clinical director in consideration of the client's unique needs and the therapist's style and specialized skills for assignment purposes. We take great care to assign a therapist that we view will be the best fit for the client seeking services.
Lori Gill, R.P., B.A., M.A., (Counselling Psychology), Certified Trauma Specialist, Consultant, and Trainer
Lori is experienced in working with all ages - Lori is not presently accepting clients
Lori Gill is the founder and lead trauma therapist of the Attachment and Trauma Treatment Centre for Healing (ATTCH) www.attch.org. She is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), Certified Trauma Specialist (CTS), Consultant Supervisor, and Trainer, for the National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children (TLC) and a former Psychology Professor. Lori maintains membership with the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists (OACCPP) and has over 16 years of clinical experience working with children, youth, and adults. Lori has held positions various professional positions working with addictions, mental health, child welfare, access to services, school counselling, and eating disorders. Her breadth of clinical experience contributes to the trainings she provides that are rich with practical case examples. Lori is honoured to have received an Award of Excellence in 2014 for her contributions to the trauma field and to have been qualified as an expert witness in the fields of trauma, attachment, and reconciliation therapy. Lori is an engaging and sought after presenter who facilitates a variety of trainings and workshops across Canada and the United States.
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Brittany Fusarelli, MSW, RSW, Senior Therapist
Brittany is experienced in working with all ages - Brittany is currently on maternity leave
Brittany is a Certified Trauma Integration Clinician (CTIC) who is experienced in working with children, youth, and adults. Brittany offers combined experience working with domestic violence, sexual assault, crisis intervention, and trauma and attachment dysergulation. Brittany joined ATTCH in September 2017, as a student for her student placement, and obtained a Masters in Social Work through the University at Buffalo, specializing in trauma-informed care.
Brittany has a certificate in EMDR therapy, and is in process of becoming certified; in addition, Brittany has completed basic training in play therapy and has completed extensive training in trauma-specific treatment. Brittany is also trained in the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) a model that focuses on internal resourcing and attachment resources to disrupt the neurological fear loops created by trauma.
Brittany’s practice style is through a solution focused, client centered, trauma-informed lens; providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach.
Brittany has a certificate in EMDR therapy, and is in process of becoming certified; in addition, Brittany has completed basic training in play therapy and has completed extensive training in trauma-specific treatment. Brittany is also trained in the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) a model that focuses on internal resourcing and attachment resources to disrupt the neurological fear loops created by trauma.
Brittany’s practice style is through a solution focused, client centered, trauma-informed lens; providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach.
Cassandra Gordon, MACP Candidate, RP, Senior Therapist
Cassandra is experienced in working with all ages
Cassandra in an Intern therapist under the direct supervision of ATTCH founder, Lori Gill. Cassandra is a student in the final stages of the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Cassandra holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree from Brock University in Child and Youth Studies and Psychology and a Bachelor of Science (Honours degree in Medical Sciences. Cassandra is a Master’s degree candidate in Child and Youth Studies, studying cognitive predictors of children’s anxiety.
Cassandra has been working in the mental health field for approximately five years. Cassandra has worked in community crisis mental health services, supervised access programs, and children’s foster care settings. Cassandra has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. This broad experience informs Cassandra’s therapeutic practice.
Cassandra therapeutic practice is informed by training in ATTCH’s Integrative and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM)®. Cassandra’s approach is also informed by DBT, CBT, mindfulness, addictions-care, and traumatology.
Cassandra aims to offer a holistic and safe space for clients to heal from the heavy emotions that weigh on them. Cassandra’s practice is grounded in empathy and meeting clients where they are at.
Cassandra has been working in the mental health field for approximately five years. Cassandra has worked in community crisis mental health services, supervised access programs, and children’s foster care settings. Cassandra has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. This broad experience informs Cassandra’s therapeutic practice.
Cassandra therapeutic practice is informed by training in ATTCH’s Integrative and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM)®. Cassandra’s approach is also informed by DBT, CBT, mindfulness, addictions-care, and traumatology.
Cassandra aims to offer a holistic and safe space for clients to heal from the heavy emotions that weigh on them. Cassandra’s practice is grounded in empathy and meeting clients where they are at.
Janice Ferguson, MSW, RSW, Senior Therapist
Janice is experienced in working with all ages
As a Registered Social Worker Janice offers over 21 years combined experience in the human services field inclusive of healthcare, child welfare, sexual assault, and social assistance sectors. Janice provides safe non-judgmental support and offers gentle insight into parenting through an attachment informed lens. She holds a Master of Social Work through Buffalo University with a specific focus on trauma-informed care. She is a Certified Trauma Integration Clinician (CTIC) through the Attachment and Trauma Treatment Centre for Healing (ATTH) where she previously completed a mentorship program with ATTCH Founder Lori Gill.
Rina Johnson, Somatic Therapist
Rina is experienced in working with all ages
I am a graduate of Kelowna College with specialization in Psychotherapy and a graduate of York University with a BA in Sociology. I am currently in the process of obtaining Certified Trauma Integration Clinician (CTIC) at ATTCH (Attachment and Trauma Treatment Centre for Healing) and a certification in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy (ISTT) at The Embody Lab.
I have broad experience working in the nonprofit sector with children, youth and elderly who experience social equity issues and struggle with mental health and wellbeing.
I hold certifications in various therapeutic modalities focusing on trauma healing, somatics and basic training in play therapy and sand tray therapy.
My style of practice focuses on the relationship between the psyche and the physical body. I draw from various therapeutic styles such as Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy and Somatic Therapy. I strive to empower individuals to build a healthy and loving relationship with oneself while focusing on the ability to hold multiple truths about their experiences with compassion; as well as, build the capacity to withstand the emotional and energetic charge that happens as a
response to stress/trauma.
I have broad experience working in the nonprofit sector with children, youth and elderly who experience social equity issues and struggle with mental health and wellbeing.
I hold certifications in various therapeutic modalities focusing on trauma healing, somatics and basic training in play therapy and sand tray therapy.
My style of practice focuses on the relationship between the psyche and the physical body. I draw from various therapeutic styles such as Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy and Somatic Therapy. I strive to empower individuals to build a healthy and loving relationship with oneself while focusing on the ability to hold multiple truths about their experiences with compassion; as well as, build the capacity to withstand the emotional and energetic charge that happens as a
response to stress/trauma.
Lindsay O'Neil, Master's of Social Work Candidate
Lindsay is experienced in working with all ages
Lindsay is trained as a trauma therapist using the Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model. This model integrates EMDR therapy with elements of cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and play based therapies woven in as secondary interventions. Lindsay works with clients of all ages including children and youth.
Trauma impacts not only our minds but our bodies as well. Although we can't take away the experience, we can definitely change the way the experience impacts us.
Trauma impacts not only our minds but our bodies as well. Although we can't take away the experience, we can definitely change the way the experience impacts us.
Matthew Melo, Master's in Counselling Candidate
Matthew is experienced in working with all ages
Matt completed his Bachelor of Health Sciences in Therapeutic Recreation from Brock University and is currently completing his Master’s in Counselling from Briercrest College and Seminary.
Matt joined ATTCH as a graduate student intern, under the direct supervision of Lori Gill, passionate about better understanding trauma experience as well as the ways in which he might help people cope. His approach to therapy is described as client-centred, collaborative, and strength-based. Through previous work in addictions, crisis intervention, and athletics - Matt has learned the value of creating a warm and non-judgemental environment for people of all ages to feel supported in overcoming challenges of life.
When he is not counselling, Matt can often be found coaching hockey at a local rink or spending time playing with his nieces and nephews.
Matt joined ATTCH as a graduate student intern, under the direct supervision of Lori Gill, passionate about better understanding trauma experience as well as the ways in which he might help people cope. His approach to therapy is described as client-centred, collaborative, and strength-based. Through previous work in addictions, crisis intervention, and athletics - Matt has learned the value of creating a warm and non-judgemental environment for people of all ages to feel supported in overcoming challenges of life.
When he is not counselling, Matt can often be found coaching hockey at a local rink or spending time playing with his nieces and nephews.
Nardin Iskander, Master in Christian Counselling Psychology
Nardin is experienced in working with all ages
I hold a Master's in Christian counselling Psychology at Canada Christian College, Whitby, Ontario. I have a medical background as I have graduated from Medicine school, Cairo, Egypt. when I came to Canada, I loved to pursue my career as a counsellor and a mental health worker in order to help those in need to understand their thoughts and feelings and be able to deal with their traumatic experiences through walking in the right path towards hope and self-acceptance. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to create individualized treatment plans that are tailored to meet their needs, and resolve the issues that they are facing in their lives, and I have a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw upon.
I am in the process of completing my training in trauma at the Attachment Trauma Center and has completed training in ATTCH's Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM)
I have experience working with people suffering from depression and anxiety. I also have experience in family counselling, especially families with kids with special needs like Down Syndrome and Autism spectrum Disorder.
my main therapeutic approach is cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I also incorporate elements from other models such as mindfulness and Acceptance Commitment Therapy when needed. My ultimate goal is to empower clients to take control of their lives, and to promote meaningful change in their lives and they could reach a sense of self-fulfillment.
I am in the process of completing my training in trauma at the Attachment Trauma Center and has completed training in ATTCH's Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM)
I have experience working with people suffering from depression and anxiety. I also have experience in family counselling, especially families with kids with special needs like Down Syndrome and Autism spectrum Disorder.
my main therapeutic approach is cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I also incorporate elements from other models such as mindfulness and Acceptance Commitment Therapy when needed. My ultimate goal is to empower clients to take control of their lives, and to promote meaningful change in their lives and they could reach a sense of self-fulfillment.
Intern Graduate Students
In order to meet the meet for subsidized therapy we regularly mentor graduate students at ATTCH Niagara. We are a highly competitive placement site and receive a high volume of applications each term from across Canada allowing us to carefully select students that we know will be a good fit with our organization and the clients that we serve. Each student is fully trained in our Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM) ® and the breadth of techniques that we use. They complete a significant amount of reading, shadowing, and cofacilitation in the early stages of their placement which enhances their skill set and prepares them to provide quality trauma specific and wellness focused treatment. Students are only assigned clients when our clinical director, Lori Gill, views that they have a solid understanding of and effective ability to apply our approach. As a result, we fully support the great work each of our students provide! We are so pleased with their work that students are typically offered employment with ATTCH Niagara at the end of their placement. To date we have not hired outside of our former students as they already have the skills and knowledge we are looking for! It is truly an honour to watch the growth that occurs during their placement and to train others to engage in our treatment model.
Amelia DiTomasso, Master's in Counselling Psychology Candidate
Amelia is experienced in working with all ages
Paige completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Brock University and is currently completing her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counselling from Niagara University.
Paige joined ATTCH as a student therapist, under the direct supervision of Lori Gill, in August 2021. Passionate about understanding the complexities of trauma, Paige started with ATTCH as a volunteer in October 2020, gaining experience working with children and their families. Paige also has experience working with neurodiverse individuals.
Paige is dedicated to a holistic and culturally competent approach to healing, explicitly trained in ATTCH's Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM).
As an intern therapist, Paige strives to help individuals heal and discover their true selves by guiding them to self-compassion, confidence and understanding. Paige is constantly evolving to suit the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
Paige joined ATTCH as a student therapist, under the direct supervision of Lori Gill, in August 2021. Passionate about understanding the complexities of trauma, Paige started with ATTCH as a volunteer in October 2020, gaining experience working with children and their families. Paige also has experience working with neurodiverse individuals.
Paige is dedicated to a holistic and culturally competent approach to healing, explicitly trained in ATTCH's Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM).
As an intern therapist, Paige strives to help individuals heal and discover their true selves by guiding them to self-compassion, confidence and understanding. Paige is constantly evolving to suit the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
Jonathan DiSanto, Master's in Counselling Psychology Candidate
Jonathan is experienced in working with all ages
Jonathan is completing a Master of Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and is currently a student therapist under the supervision of Lori Gill, RP, Founder and Clinical Director of LGP. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Brock University and developed an interest in the field of Psychotherapy throughout that time.
Jonathan has grown in his understanding of the mind and the complexities of mental health throughout completing his graduate program and volunteering with adults struggling with various mental health issues.
Jonathan has taken interest in different therapeutic approaches, specifically cognitive-behavioural models and values the importance of considering the whole person when working with clients.
As a student therapist, Jonathan aims to learn and apply ATTCH's Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM) along with working to help the client feel heard and understood.
Jonathan has grown in his understanding of the mind and the complexities of mental health throughout completing his graduate program and volunteering with adults struggling with various mental health issues.
Jonathan has taken interest in different therapeutic approaches, specifically cognitive-behavioural models and values the importance of considering the whole person when working with clients.
As a student therapist, Jonathan aims to learn and apply ATTCH's Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM) along with working to help the client feel heard and understood.
Student Placements
We accept students year round. That said, students interested in completing placement with us are encouraged to apply early as we receive a high volume of practicum applications. Please complete the form below and send your cv to reception@attch.org
Our Medical Psychotherapy Partners
Sean Robb & Kaleigh Alkenbrack
Sean & Kaleigh provide support around:
Mental Health and Cognitive Challenges following Stroke;
Living with Concussion;
Coping with Dementia;
Building a Life after Brain Injury;
Coping with other Neurological Disorders (e.g., MS, ALS, etc.);
Figuring out where challenges are present.
Mental Health and Cognitive Challenges following Stroke;
Living with Concussion;
Coping with Dementia;
Building a Life after Brain Injury;
Coping with other Neurological Disorders (e.g., MS, ALS, etc.);
Figuring out where challenges are present.
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