Kaytee Gillis, LCSW

About

Kaytee Gillis, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and the author of several books. Her clinical work focuses on assisting survivors of domestic violence and family trauma, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. Her writing sheds light on the ways that the legal system can perpetuate the cycle of domestic violence by failing to recognize patterns that would otherwise hold perpetrators accountable and protect survivors. Gillis has been featured on BBC News, TIME Magazine, Women's World Magazine, CP24 News, and other outlets. She provides training nationwide on recognizing patterns of domestic violence and family trauma.

Books by Kaytee Gillis, LCSW

Recent Posts

How Childhood Trauma Shapes Adult Relationships

We often repeat relationship patterns shaped in childhood, which, for some, might mean repeating the cycle of dysfunction.

When Children Are Expected to Be the Adults

Personal Perspective: What happens when children are expected to suppress their pain and become adults?

A Quick Practice for When Trauma Responses Reappear

What to do when old trauma patterns resurface during healing.

When Unhealthy Relationships Feel Familiar

Many survivors of abuse blame themselves for "missing the signs." But when abuse was normalized in childhood, harmful behavior can feel familiar.

When Trauma Responses Show Up as Overprotective Parenting

When someone grows up in an environment where safety and support were inconsistent or absent, they may become hyper-vigilant about protecting their own children from harm.

How Historical Trauma Can Shape LGBTQ Relationships

Historical trauma and minority stress can shape how queer partners cope with fear, danger, and protection in relationships.

Mother’s Day and Estrangement: Holding Two Truths at Once

Mother’s Day can feel painful and isolating for those navigating different levels of family estrangement. Here’s a tip that may help ease the guilt while honoring your truth.

You Can Still Heal a Painful Past—Even If You Don't Call It "Abuse"

Struggling to call your past “abuse”? You’re not alone. But you can acknowledge harm and begin healing without forcing a label you’re not ready to use. Here is how.

When Survivors Are Blamed for Family Estrangement

When someone is abandoned by a parent, the focus often shifts to what they did wrong. This reinforces the trauma and further harms survivors. Here are some ways to respond.

The Grief of Family Rejection

Family rejection often involves ambiguous loss: grief that lacks closure or recognition. This leaves survivors to mourn relationships with those who are still alive.