In this inspiring conversation, Lisa sits down with Gisela Lamadrid, founder of Strong Ties Counselling in the Lower Mainland of BC. Gisela shares her journey from solo practitioner to intentional group practice owner, the lessons she’s learned about leadership, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right support systems. Together, they explore what it really means to lead with care, community, and courage. What You’ll Hear: How Gisela built Strong Ties Counselling around her passion for supporting children, teens, and familiesWhy she chose to start her practice with a group vision in mindThe realities of leadership growth—grief, fear, and letting go of clientsHow intentional expansion helped her maintain connection and camaraderie across two locationsThe team behind her success—and why every leader needs a strong circle of supportHow to recognize when it’s time to invest in help, even when it feels uncomfortableThe mindset shifts required to move from counsellor to confident CEO Resources Mentioned Strong Ties Counselling Lisa Catallo Coaching – Coaching & Mentorship for Canadian Group Practice Owners Featured Guest: Gisella La Madrid Gisella La Madrid is the Founder of Strong Ties – Child & Family Services, where - along with her team - she supports children, teens, and families in their journey of growth and healing. She creates a warm, playful environment for kids, practical tools for teens and adults, and guidance for parents navigating challenges at home. Gisella is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with advanced training in play therapy, family therapy, and approaches like CBT and DBT. She also specializes in supporting families through separation and divorce, offering coaching, child-focused reports, and strategies to ease co-parenting transitions. With over a decade of experience in clinical, research, and non-profit settings, Gisella brings a practical, collaborative, and compassionate approach—working closely with families, schools, and professionals to ensure kids feel supported every step of the way. She is an accredited clinical supervisor and currently manages a team of 15 associates. Follow Gisella La Madrid: Website: www.strongties.ca Meet the Host: Lisa Catallo Lisa is a Canadian psychotherapist, group practice owner, and business coach with over eight years of experience leading a thriving, values-driven practice. She works with therapists who are ready to step into their role as confident, ethical, and intentional leaders—without burning out or getting buried in the day-to-day. Lisa’s coaching focuses on building sustainable group practices through efficient systems, effective leadership, and a deep respect for time and energy. Her approach is calm and encouraging, offering grounded guidance that helps therapists move from overwhelm to clarity—so they can lead with confidence and purpose. Whether she’s supporting someone just starting to grow a team or helping a seasoned leader reclaim their role as CEO, Lisa brings a
