Weaving and Unweaving
I am a mental health provider through the First Nations Health Authority. If you have active status you are eligible for free services. (FNHA): https://www.fnha.ca/benefits/mental-health
I am committed to the ongoing examination and questioning of the impact of colonialism on my life and the various aspects of society, including culture, politics, and the psyches of individuals. I recognize the historical and ongoing effects of colonization on marginalized and Indigenous communities and I aim to challenge the dominant narrative that glorifies and perpetuates colonial ideologies while dismissing the experiences and knowledge of those who were colonized and the legacy that lingers, shaping societal norms, power dynamics, and individual experiences that exist today.
In the realm of mental health, I consider the impacts of colonization on my practice. This includes critically examining the existing therapeutic models, tools, and theories I was trained in, and I continue the ongoing inquiry of their applicability and relevance within diverse cultural contexts. Cultural humility and sensitivity are at the heart of my work and relationships.
I strive to create an anti-oppressive environment that acknowledges the systemic and historical factors contributing to distress while validating and honouring your cultural identities and healing practices. I am committed to offering counselling services rooted in social justice principles prioritizing respect, dignity, and equity for Indigenous communities and individuals. My approach centers on building authentic relationships founded on mutual understanding and support, acknowledging and honouring your specific needs, care, and considerations unique to your experiences. Professionally and personally, I strive to create a safe and empowering space where Indigenous voices are valued, heard, and affirmed, fostering healing, growth, and resilience within their communities that center marginalized voices and experiences.
Community Services, Advocacy, and Educational Resources:
Kuu-us Crisis Line Society
Description: Provides 24/7 crisis support to Indigenous people in British Columbia, including crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
Website: kuu-uscrisisline.com
Contact: 1-800-588-8717
Stqeeye' Learning Society
Description: Supporting self-determination, relationship building, and reconciliation through traditional ecological restoration and land-based education programs.
Website: stqeeye.ca
Indigenous Education (SD64) – Gulf Islands School District
Description: Offers educational support and resources for Indigenous students and families on Salt Spring Island and surrounding areas. Programs include cultural education, Indigenous language learning, and student support services.
Website: sd64.bc.ca
Salt Spring Island Community Services – Indigenous Programs
Description: Provides various community services on Salt Spring Island, including Indigenous-specific programs focused on mental health, wellness, and cultural connections.
Website: ssics.ca
Tseycum First Nation
Description: Located near Salt Spring Island, Tseycum First Nation provides health and social services, cultural programs, and community support for its members and neighboring communities.
Website: tseycum.ca
Vancouver Native Health Society (VNFC)
Description: VNFC offers health services, cultural programs, and community support for Indigenous people in the Vancouver area.
Website: vnfc.ca
The Discourse
Description: The Discourse offers detailed coverage of the Cowichan Valley, including local news, community updates, and regional events.
Website: thediscourse.ca/cowichan-valley
First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
Description: FNHA offers health services to First Nations people in British Columbia, including mental health support, cultural safety training, and wellness programs.
Website: fnha.ca
Contact: 1-844-364-7878
Indigenous Perspectives Society (IPS)
Description: IPS provides training and education to support Indigenous children and families, including cultural competency workshops and training on the impacts of colonialism.
Website: ipsociety.ca
Contact: 1-250-391-0007
Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS)
Description: IRSSS offers counseling and support to residential school survivors and their families, as well as educational resources on the history and impacts of residential schools.
Website: irsss.ca
Contact: 1-800-721-0066
Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC)
Description: MNBC provides support services to Métis people in British Columbia, including health, housing, and cultural programs.
Website: mnbc.ca
Contact: 1-604-557-5851
Native Education College (NEC)
Description: NEC offers post-secondary education and training programs to Indigenous students, including courses on Indigenous history, culture, and the impacts of colonialism.
Website: necvancouver.org
Contact: 1-604-873-3772
Reconciliation Canada
Description: Reconciliation Canada is an Indigenous-led organization that offers workshops, programs, and events aimed at fostering understanding and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada.
Website: reconciliationcanada.ca
Contact: 1-604-770-4434
First Nations Child & Family Caring Society
Description: This organization promotes the well-being of First Nations children and their families through research, policy development, and advocacy, including resources on the history and effects of colonialism.
Website: fncaringsociety.com
Contact: 1-613-230-5885
Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council
Description: Provides health, education, and social services to Nuu-chah-nulth communities on Vancouver Island, including programs focused on mental health and wellness.
Website: nuuchahnulth.org
Contact: 1-250-724-5757
Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC)
Description: UBCIC is a political organization that represents and advocates for the rights of Indigenous peoples in British Columbia. They also provide resources and information on Indigenous rights and title.
Website: ubcic.bc.ca
Contact: 1-604-684-0231
Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness Society
Description: This organization provides culturally supportive services to Indigenous peoples experiencing or at risk of homelessness in British Columbia.
Website: acehsociety.com
Contact: 1-250-383-1832
Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC)
Description: NWAC advocates for the rights of Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people, offering programs and resources to support their well-being.
Website: nwac.ca
Contact: 1-613-722-3033
Tungasuvvingat Inuit
Description: Provides a range of social, cultural, and support services to Inuit across Canada, including mental health support and advocacy.
Website: tungasuvvingatinuit.ca
Contact: 1-613-565-5885
Indigenous Wellness Research Institute (IWRI)
Description: IWRI at the University of Washington provides resources and research focused on the health and wellness of Indigenous peoples, including educational programs on decolonization and Indigenous rights.
Website: iwri.org
Contact: 1-206-616-7543