Pea and goat cheese crostini

My statement of learning

My journey in my continued professional development (CPD) includes learning, unlearning, and gaining new understandings in Trauma Therapy within the energy of the complex needs of the diverse populations, particularly indigenous communities. This commitment in my learning has guided my focus in trauma training and cultural training, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide compassionate and effective support in my private practice and the indigenous communities I work within.

Throughout my studies, I have dedicated significant time in understanding trauma and its pervasive impact on individuals and the indigenous communities I work within, at large. Trauma-informed practice is not merely an approach but a fundamental philosophy that shapes how I engage with my clients, asses their needs and guides my devise intervention strategies.

By targeting my professional development in these areas, and participating in specialized workshops, reading, online programing in the area of trauma and resilience, it has broadened my perspective on trauma across different life stages, offered practical skills for building resilience and fostering a space of healing for my clients.

In recognizing the historical and ongoing injustices faced by indigenous populations, I have pursued cultural training formally and with ongoing dialogue with indigenous community leaders, health directors, knowledge keepers, and elders, with the intention to develop a respectful and informed approach to my practice. Understanding the unique cultural contexts within each community I work within, and the historical traumas and experiences by indigenous people at large, and community specific, is crucial in my learning to provide effective support.

I work closely with local knowledge keepers, and indigenous elder as the opportunities present themselves. This community engagement has been instrumental in deepening my cultural competence. Their trust in me has offered me an inside lane for guidance and wisdom supporting my understanding of respectful and collaborative approaches within my practice. This learning is hard to quantify, as it often takes place while attending public community events, and with invitation to closed cultural events and other traditional ceremonies. The enrichment in my appreciation and increased understandings of indigenous culture, has strengthened my ability to connect with my clients in a culturally meaningful way. Far beyond any course or book I could absorb. I am so excited to continue to collaborate and learn and feel blessed at the oprotunites that have been presented to me to date.

In my CPD I am committed to integrating trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approaches to support indigenous clients effectively. This integration involves creating a safe and welcoming environment that honors cultural identities and addresses trauma's multifaceted impacts on both the individuals I work with, but the communities they reside within.

With these goals in mind, my CPD learning activities have been chosen with intention to offer a well rounded approach to healing in my therapy, mind, body, and spirit. The education I have to date, and my goals moving forward equip me with a solid foundation in both trauma and cultural training. These competencies are essential for providing effective and respectful support to indigenous populations in my current and future practice. I am dedicated to fostering healing, resilience, and empowerment in the individuals and communities I serve.