Amanda Gillis, LLPC

About Amanda

Prior to coming to Interlochen, Amanda Gillis worked with the Refugee Development Center in Lansing, Michigan, a nonprofit organization supporting refugee families and children who have been recently relocated to the United States. She worked specifically with refugee middle school and high school students, providing emotional and academic support and helping them navigate the cultural adjustment to the American school system. This work and global perspective has deeply shaped Gillis's counseling philosophy, especially in understanding the role of culture in identity formation. Gillis also brings experience supporting students in the public school districts in her hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska and in Marquette, Michigan. 

In her role as a school counselor, she works closely with Interlochen students, coming alongside them on their journey to becoming the best version on themselves through self discovery, self expression, and the arts. As a former Interlochen Arts Camp student, Gillis has a deep appreciation for the complexities and nuances that young artists face. She incorporates CBT and mindfulness into her practice with an emphasis on physical movement and connection with the natural world. Gillis has a collaborative approach when working with students, and enjoys connecting Interlochen students with the resources on and off campus in pursuing whole mind and body wellness. Gillis is a Michigan licensed school counselor and an LLPC.

I believe in providing a positive and encouraging space for students, where they feel empowered to pursue their art, make mistakes, find their voice, and journey towards whole mind and body wellness.