Hi!
I’m Jill Culver.
I get what it is like to be different, to want different things, to feel out of place, and to be misunderstood. I know what it feels like to be a dreamer and a striver, a visionary and a romantic, brought down to earth by the cold realities of taxes, housework and a 9-5. I know what it feels like to try to explain an unconventional life to the powers that be. Your flavour of difference is no-doubt different than mine. Here you will find an open mind and unwavering support in your journey to finding your own answers.
But hopefully you can agree that it is sometimes hard to find a place that comfortably fits.
I became a Social Worker, and then a therapist, relatively late in life.
(My mom points out that I like to do things backwards).
Before that I was a doula, an outreach worker, a food server, and a variety of other occupations with the common theme of working with people. I was drawn to being a therapist because I have felt the difference that it makes to be understood and accepted as we are, while also allowing for the possibility of change. As a therapy client myself I have felt both quelled and celebrated. Guess which one was better?
When studying Social Work and Counselling at the University of British Columbia, I declared that my theoretical orientation was “feminist narrative therapy.” However that description is the tip of the iceberg when describing what actually happens in sessions.
Really, we talk. Mostly, the client (you!) talks.
I provide space, time, gentle questions, validation and support. I will mention patterns that emerge, provide perspective and a place to process, and support you to move forward in new ways. I work collaboratively with you, meaning that we can figure out what works together. We go at your pace and on your schedule.
I love learning new things, and am often taken by new passions and excitements. Here is a list of my relevant courses, trainings and credentials:
(This does not include the endless podcasts, conversations, books, articles, tiktoks and youtube videos I consume which provide a less rigorous but still effective body of knowledge)
My Education:
- Master of Social Work, University of British Columbia
- Bachelor of Social Work, University of British Columbia
My Certifications:
- Registered Social Worker, BC (BCRSW #11912)
- Registered Social Worker, Ontario (ONRSW #837576)
- Registered Clinical Counsellor, BC (BCACC #22851)
- Advanced Practitioner Certification in Hope-Action Theory & Practice -Doubleknot Works
- Career Coaching Master Class- University of British Columbia
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Level 1 – The Gottman Institute
- Solution-Building Couples Therapy Course, Level 1 – Solution Focussed Universe
- Narrative Therapy Level 1 and 2, Vancouver School of Narrative Therapy
- Professional Life Coach Certification – Transformation Academy
- Therapeutic Treatment of Birth Trauma – Birth and Trauma Support Centre
- Birth Trauma Prevention-Birth and Trauma Support Centre
- Ethical Non-Monogamy for Therapists – Therapeutic Diversity Training
Not sure yet? Book a complimentary 15-minute intro call.
