Colleen is an Anishinaabe women from Drummand Island and Georgian Bay, who resides within Simcoe County. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Social Work Indigenous Studies degree, she is trained in the Strengths Bases Approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Safe Talk, Rainbows (facilitator, and co-facilitator) and Sharing Circles. She also has experience facilitating and co-facilitating coping cats/girls talk groups.
Colleen has a strong work ethic advocate for families in crisis. Stopping violence against women and children is something she holds close to her heart, as she too is a survivor of domestic violence. This includes spreading awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), advocating for Indigenous rights, and keeping nibi (water) and Mother Earth clean for our next Seven Generations. Having a permanent disability, she is a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities, whether it be visible or invisible.
Throughout Colleen’s professional career she works through an anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally sensitive lens, she understands that each person is different and deals with stressors differently. Therefore, each situation can not be addressed in the same manner. She works with families differently based on their level of needs, abilities, and culture. Each person is unique in their own way and deserves to be treated with respect. She promotes cultural teachings in Sharing Circles using an Eagle Feather. When a circle is created, everyone is an equal and at the same level, which creates safety and unity. Circles promote communication and trust within oneself and amongst others. All relationships require communication and trust, without those, the relationship can not prosper in a positive way.
Colleen’s understanding of the dynamics of communication, active listening, case management, field work, conflict resolution and problem solving skills has enhanced her experience working with Women in Crisis, at Risk Youth, Indigenous families, and individuals struggling with mental health and addiction related issues.
Colleen is a naturally gifted artist who works with traditional crafting methods, where she utilizes those within her daily life, by working with hides and pelts, and growing and making traditional medicines. She raised her boys without television, in its place she also taught them to work with their hands by crafting cultural items.
During the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Pandemic Colleen is working from home, as well, volunteering her time making and distributing free face masks, hospital caps and hospital gowns for Indigenous communities, front line workers, family and friends.
