Weytk,
I am connected to the Secwepemc community through my family ties as a kí7ce, kyé7e and túme. I feel privileged to be a part of the journey towards wellness and healing for those I support. As a board member of the Wúmec r Cqweqwelútn-kt Society, I am dedicated to promoting healing and Secwepemctsín language learning within our community.
With over 25 years of experience in trauma and violence counselling, my focus is on healing, wellness, and understanding the coping mechanisms and survival responses to trauma and violence. This includes addressing issues such as self-harm, substance abuse, disordered eating, and other survival strategies. I also take into account the impact of intergenerational trauma, as well as colonial and gendered policies on Indigenous children, youth, families, and communities.
My training in wellness includes collaborations with First Nations Justice, the Justice Institute of BC, and SNTC.
I have a passion for creating safe spaces.
Education and Specializations:
- Bachelor of Social Work UBC (1990)
- Masters of Social Work focus on healing from abuse and trauma (1992)
- PhD with specialization in Secwepemc and Indigenous approaches to healing children and youth from trauma (2018)
- Specialization in sexualized violence, intergenerational trauma, art and play therapy, EMDR, and other approaches
- Professor, School of Social Work, Thompson Rivers University teaching courses on Indigenous trauma and violence informed practices; groups and practice
- Registered First Nations Health Authority Therapist
- Registered Social Worker
- Registered BC Play Therapy Association Member