Kaytee Gillis, LCSW

About

Kaytee (Kaytlyn) Gillis, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and the author of multiple books. Her clinical work focuses on assisting survivors of domestic violence and family trauma, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. Through her clinical practice, writing, and education, she advocates for breaking cycles of trauma and abuse, believing that healing ourselves can change the course of future generations. Her work has been featured on BBC News, TIME Magazine, Women's World Magazine, CP24 News, and the Los Angeles Times, among other outlets. She provides training nationwide on recognizing patterns of domestic violence and family trauma.

Books by Kaytee Gillis, LCSW

Recent Posts

The Relationship Isn't Right for You, but Why Do You Stay?

Many people stay in unhealthy or even abusive relationships because early experiences and lessons from their family teach them what to expect in relationships.

Why Does It Bother Us So Much When Someone Doesn’t Like Us?

Why can someone’s dislike of us feel so threatening—even when we don't even particularly like them? Sometimes we're afraid of what their rejection might mean.

Why the Lindsay Clancy Trial Is Triggering for Many Women

Why does the Lindsay Clancy case feel so unsettling for so many women? It may tap into a familiar fear: knowing something is wrong and wondering whether anyone is listening.

When Social Media Becomes Another Weapon of Abuse

Leaving an abusive relationship doesn't always end the abuse. Learn how to protect your privacy, set social media boundaries, and protect your peace when abuse moves online.

“Maybe It Isn’t That Bad”: The Psychology of Doubting Abuse

Cognitive dissonance can make abusive behavior difficult to recognize and respond to. Understanding what happens in the brain can help survivors make sense of their own reactions.

Partner Violence Is Less Recognized in LGBTQ Relationships

The greatest barriers LGBTQ survivors face often aren't just abusive partners—they're the systems that fail to recognize and support them.

The Social Pressure to Stay in Abusive Relationships

We often ask survivors of domestic violence, "Why didn't you leave?" But we rarely ask a more important question: Who told them to stay?

Do You Have to Forgive After Abuse?

Why pressuring survivors to forgive can interrupt healing—and what trauma recovery actually asks of us instead.

Why Does Marriage Seem to Benefit Men More Than Women?

Marriage is often said to benefit men more than women—but the real story is how gender shapes emotional support and connection.

Why You're Probably Not as Good a Listener as You Think

Think you’re a good listener? Research suggests most of us aren’t as skilled at listening as we believe. Conversations often fall short, but you can change that.