Dr. Alison McCleary
Doctor of Psychology (Registration Pending)
Dr. Alison McCleary
Helping clients to see even more of themselves.
I have a background in clinical counselling which helps me to centre the needs of each individual client and to place the assessment process in the larger context of who the client is. I have witnessed how much assessments can help children, youth, and adults to know themselves better and to understand their strengths and areas where they may benefit from support. I love helping clients to see even more of themselves than can be measured– things like creativity, kindness, a knack for storytelling, or humor can also be revealed through a relational and therapeutic assessment process. I also have a background in play therapy that greatly helps me to keep a sense of fun and play at the core of my work (even with adults).
Over the course of my career, I have worked with children, youth, and families in many different settings (private practice, community organizations, volunteer positions) and I’m thankful for the different opportunities that have helped me understand people and families more. I regularly work with parents to figure out effective and gentle ways to share the assessment results with children.
I believe that my experiences as a daughter, sister, aunt, partner, and friend have also impacted my approach to the work. I emphasize authenticity, clear communication, and connection with my clients, and I strive to create a sense of comfort for everyone involved. Families often have many questions about the assessment process, and I work diligently to ensure the process is transparent. There are never too many questions! I try my best to be attuned to the needs of the client during the assessment time – it’s important that there are ample opportunities for taking a brain break, playing a game, or having a drink/snack.
Having grown up in northwest BC, I feel a special passion for serving rural and northern communities. In the course of my work in rural communities, I have collaborated with Indigenous bands, provided free training resources to remote areas, and even wrote my doctoral dissertation all about the barriers to accessing mental health care in my rural hometown.
I absolutely love supervising student and emerging therapists, and I continue to provide consultation to new therapists from across the province. I additionally provide workshops and support groups for new therapists that fill my cup and are hugely energizing for me.
