Matt McGillvray, CD, MSW, RSW

I'm a registered social worker and psychotherapist, and the founder and Clinical Director of Nipissing Counselling Solutions.

My work is shaped by experience across military, correctional, educational, and healthcare systems. I bring a practical, systems-informed approach to therapy, grounded in both frontline experience and clinical training.

Who I Work With

I work with clients across the lifespan, including children, youth, adults, couples, and families navigating ADHD, trauma, relationship challenges, burnout, and occupational stress injuries. 

I work best with people who want more than just a space to talk.

Many of the clients I see are:

• first responders, military members, and veterans
• professionals dealing with burnout or high-pressure environments
• individuals navigating ADHD, trauma, or emotional regulation challenges
• couples and families working through conflict, disconnection, or communication breakdown

They are often capable, self-aware, and used to functioning at a high level, but feel stuck in patterns that aren't working anymore. They're looking for clarity, structure, and meaningful change, not just short-term relief.

My Approach

My approach is direct, practical, and grounded in evidence-based care.

I draw from trauma-informed, cognitive, and skills-based approaches to help you understand what's happening, why it's happening, and what to do about it.

This typically includes:

• identifying patterns that are keeping you stuck
• building concrete skills for emotional regulation and communication
• addressing trauma and underlying drivers of behaviour
• developing a clearer sense of direction and control

I balance insight with action; therapy should lead somewhere.

Training & Modalities

I draw from a range of evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, integrating methods based on your goals, presentation, and stage of change.

My holistic work includes applications of:

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Narrative Therapy

I also integrate elements from other modalities where clinically appropriate, with a focus on practical, skills-based, and systems-informed care.

My approach is flexible, but structured. The goal is not to apply a single model, but to use the right tools at the right time to help you move forward.

Role at NCS

As founder and Clinical Director, I oversee clinical standards, support the development of associate clinicians, and ensure that care across the practice is consistent, ethical, and effective.