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Meet Samantha, our Counsellor! Samantha started working for the LCFASD in April, 2024. As a Counsellor, Samantha offers a unique approach other than the traditional modality of therapy, which includes schedule flexibility, implementing traditional approaches for Indigenous clients, beading, painting, games, etc. Samantha offers support for caregivers, one to one and within the caregiver support group nights that are run monthly. Samantha’s goal is to offer counselling supports for individuals living with FASD with a unique spin that allows them the space to feel welcome, be heard and communicate in a way that works for them. The counselling program also works with the ladies that participate in our 2nd Floor Women’s Recovery program. Samantha supports the 2nd Floor ladies in both one to one counselling sessions and weekly groups, tackling the harder subjects such as codependency, healthy relationships, effective communication, boundaries, self-care, relapse prevention, and navigating sobriety. Kwe/Tansi! Samantha is an Anishinaabe woman of mixed ancestry. Samantha grew up in the greater Toronto area and moved to Alberta almost 10 years ago! Throughout her work within the social work field, Samantha has worked in Indigenous communities as an NNADAP/Addictions Counsellor, worked within the Lakeland with individuals that struggle with houselessness, substance use, domestic violence, gangs, sexual assault, and mental illness. Samantha graduated from Everest College with a Diploma in Addictions in 2011, Durham College with a Diploma in Social Service in 2022, and she recently obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Indigenous Social Work. When Samantha is not at work, she enjoys hanging out with her son and husband. They have a hobby farm with mostly chickens and goats. By the end of this year, they are hoping to have turkeys, pigs, and a highland cow! When Samantha is not tending to her animals, she enjoys cooking/baking, canning, beading, and reading!