Medicine Wheel Teachings 2013

All those interested in Indigenous culture, will have the opportunity to learn about the values, spiritual, and holistic approach of First Nations. This will be done through shared teachings, small group discussions and Ceremonies.

We will also explore the societal trauma caused by the residential schools system and the impact in communities today. This will be woven together to look at an effective method of healing that draws on the strength and gifts of First Nations teachings.

You will learn about the Native world view through the ‘Four Direction Medicine Wheel Teachings’ encompassing the Mental, Spiritual, Emotional and Mental aspects of health in a holistic approach; as well as incorporating the use of the Seven Grandfather Teachings (Anishnabe/ Ojibway Teachings).

This workshop is for people from all cultural and ethnic traditions. If you are a First Nations person, you may be applying mostly “western methods” that do not always resonate with your clients and may wish to learn about how to approach your work grounded in First Nations culture. For people of all other ancestries, increasing your awareness of an Indigenous worldview may support you to relate more skillfully in intercultural settings.

Program Cost: $415 ($257.50 tuition+$157.50 meals/accommodations)

Please register at least 2 weeks in advance to secure your spot in this program.

Charlene Howard

Charlene Howard is a Traditional Anishnabe (Ojibway) woman and a member of Garden River First Nation, in Ontario. Charlene possesses a (combined degree) Honours Bachelor of Social Work / Native Human Services from Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario; and a Masters of Social Work from the University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario. Her thesis was on the Legacy of Residential Schools

Charlene has worked in areas of child welfare, foster care and currently is an independent counsellor approved by FNIHB (First Nation & Inuit Health Branch – Ontario Region) and offers ‘short term crisis intervention counselling’ under the Mental Health program; as well is approved under the ‘Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program’ to counsel and work with Residential School Survivors, their children and grandchildren. She also conducts full moon Sweat Lodge Ceremonies in her community.

Ishbel Munro

Ishbel Munro, has been involved in community development work for over 35 years. She has worked with First Nations, fishermen, women, local development groups and youth, amongst others. Her approach is collaborative – building people’s strengths, self-reliance and hope supporting the development of their own leadership. For 15 years, she was Executive Director of Coastal Communities Network (CCN), a province wide grassroots, non-profit that works to ensure the future of Nova Scotia’s rural and coastal communities. Ishbel is currently the Program Director at  Tatamagouche Centre and a member of the Staff Leadership Team that is working to change the Centre from a hierarchal management structure to a collaborative team model.