Cinda Gillilan, MATS, MSW, Ph.D.

Biography

Cinda Gillilan, MTS, MSW, PhD is a seasoned social work educator, spiritual care practitioner, and end-of-life companion. With over three decades of experience in higher education and a strong foundation in social work, sociology, and feminist theory, her teaching centers around compassion-based practice, cultural responsiveness, and supporting individuals, groups, and families through life’s most profound transitions.

In addition to her academic roles, Cinda works with individuals across the U.S. and abroad in areas such as grief support, ESL for caregivers, spiritual direction, companion animal loss, advance care planning, and more. Her private business emphasizes deep listening, trauma-informed approaches, and inclusive, client-centered care. She is especially passionate about supporting marginalized communities and creating space for honest conversations about grief, death, dying, and spiritual meaning.

Cinda holds graduate degrees in Social Work, Theological Studies, and an interdisciplinary doctorate degree. She has specialized professional certifications in spiritual direction, end-of-life doula work, pet loss grief support, animal Reiki, and English as a Second/Foreign Language. She brings both professional depth and personal warmth to the classroom, encouraging students to integrate theory with heart and practice.