Vicki sits down with Janelle Jackiw to explore anger and the new CTRI workshop providing tools for counsellors. They unpack the power of anger as a natural and righteous emotion that can also leave big impacts. Janelle describes the importance of learning the story behind anger and the cyclical patterns that can leave people feeling out of control. She also provides several immediate and long-term strategies that can help people take back control and develop the tools they need to repair relationships. 

Vicki explores Patricia’s lifelong journey of self-discovery, highlighting how Patricia integrated the heart-centred wisdom and healing from her Indigenous ancestors into her own path. Patricia discusses balancing this with Western Eurocentric academic approaches to mental health, creating her unique method of “carrying a toolbox and a bundle” to support others.

Vicki and Kim McCabe explore Kim’s passion project, Rites for Girls, which is changing the world one girl at a time by supporting the rite of passage into puberty with safety and connection. Kim shares stories of girls becoming true to themselves through ongoing groups and deepened connection with the adult women around them. She describes her passion for inspiring women and supporting parents to be the best version of themselves, and extends an invitation to get involved in mentoring the next generation. Read More

Vicki sits down with Dr. Lorre Laws to explore her passionate pursuit of understanding what really can help restore and heal nurses and other healers from the unresolved trauma from their work. They unpack how these unhealed “bits of wisdom” can guide healers to develop their own Innate Care Plan, as described fully in her new book. Dr. Lorre also gives examples of micro-practices as short as 10 seconds that can be woven into any day at any time. Read More

Vicki sits down with Manitoba Blue Cross Manager, Leader, and Therapist Jodie Voth to explore blending clinical and leadership skills to foster organizational wellness. They discuss common signs of burnout and key steps for avoiding the deep end of the “burnout pond.” Jodie describes her favourite strategies for both individuals and teams to build resilience and sustainable wellness. And she shares her joy at building accessible steps for community access to systemic relational counselling.

Vicki and HARC Research Manager Lisa Striegler explore how creative and expressive arts provide metaphor and connection in counselling. Lisa describes the process of running a drumming group in her small town setting. Her and Vicki also discuss the framework of combining talk therapy with rhythmic music to explore topics such as boundaries and forgiveness. And she teaches Vicki a regulation activity with a demonstration and lesson using just their hands and a drum. Read More

Vicki and Jaicee explore the evolution of the Giwiidabindimin Certificate Program at CTRI. In the context of a two-eyed seeing approach, Jaicee describes her journey to become part of this program and the deepening development of her own two-eyed seeing.  Drawing on her heart space and Indigenous lens alongside Western Eurocentric mental health models, Jaicee shares her passion and hopes for this growing way of learning and healing together. She describes the new Giwiidosendamin Certificate Program coming in 2025, and how everyone can grow their curiosity, cultural competency, and two-eyed seeing. More info on Jaicee can be found… Read More

Vicki shares space with Tanya Dawn McDougall from St. Theresa Point Ansininew Nation, who shares her deepening understanding of the legacy of trauma and resilience in the children she supports in her community as a mental health advocate. Tanya discusses teachings and three key areas she considers that leave her hopeful about the possibilities of engaging with trauma as a teacher and catalyst to intergenerational resilience. She also describes the foundation of building the muscles of relationship from the perspective of a First Nation practitioner.

Vicki dives into the unique world of therapeutic clowning with Angola Murdoch. As an aerialist, circus performer, and theatre director of Lookup Theatre, Angola describes her passion for creativity, movement, and serving people through therapeutic clowning. Together they explore the unique client-led process that unfolds in a hospice setting, where “Mabel” the clown connects, sings, and explores emotions with clients who are dying. Angola shares the wisdom of deep listening that we can all learn from a clown.

Vicki and Clinical Psychologist Krystel Salandanan explore a multicultural approach to mental health counselling. Together they explore ways to build a strong multicultural foundation into any counsellor’s practice, emphasizing the ethical importance of making this an everyday and ongoing part of learning. And they discuss concrete strategies linked to cultural humility and intersectionality that will get you started.  … Read More

Vicki and Therapist Emily Bushell explore borderline personality traits – both the experience of living with them, and what it’s like to be a support. Emily describes foundational strategies for getting started on building stability for those with borderline traits, and offers her two favourite strategies for helpers to stay grounded and steady in this work. Through a healing story and a reframe of the drama triangle, Emily describes the power of shifting the dynamic from victim and rescuer to an empowered and compassionate coach.   Find out more about Emily’s resources here. Read More

Vicki sits down with CTRI Owner and Managing Director Nathan Gerbrandt to explore his evolving understanding of creating Trauma-Informed spaces and practices. They discuss moving beyond awareness in order to co-create safety with individuals and organizations. Nathan shares practical suggestions for seeing strengths and success as part of trauma awareness. And he highlights the influence of this model on upcoming CTRI trainings.