Walking on Common Ground

THERE IS HOPE THE CAPACITY TO CARE PRESCRIPTION FOR EQUITY A Holistic Approach to A Conversation with Alberta’s A National Drug Plan for All the Opioid Crisis Child and Youth Advocate

VOLUME 43 | ISSUE 3 FALL 2018 THE www.acsw.ab.caADVOCATEALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS

GATHERING FOR RECONCILIATION AT ALBERTA LEGISLATURE Walking on Common Ground

PAGE 6 UNDERSTANDING MENTAL DISORDERS: PERSONALITY DISORDERS, ANXIETY, & DEPRESSION Instructor: Michael E. Howard, Ph.D. 6 HOURS CREDIT (Social Workers)

PROGRAM / LECTURE

Conference registration is from 7:45 AM to 8:15 AM. The conference will begin at 8:30 AM. A lunch break (on your own) will take place from approximately 11:30 AM to 12:20 PM. The course will adjourn at 3:30 PM, at which time course completion certificates are distributed.

Registration: 7:45 AM – 8:30 AM • Medical Conditions That Can Cause or Mimic Anxiety: Adverting Disaster. Morning Lecture: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM • Dental Anxiety: Managing the Anxious Dental Patient. • Elements of Personality: How We Become Who We Are. • Obsessive- Compulsive Disorder: Is this Compulsive Gambling and Hoarding? • Cognitive Appraisals: Do We Perceive Reality? Do We Feel the Way We • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: The Unrelenting Power of Flashbacks; CPT, Think? PET, and EMDR Treatments. • Genes and Mental Disorders: Do we Inherit Abnormal Behavior? Mid-Afternoon Lecture: 2:00 PM – 3:20 PM • Personality Disorders: Three Clusters of Relationship Killers. • Major Depressive Disorder: DSM-5 Criteria; Effects of Hormones, Insomnia, • Worship Me—What I Want, What I Think, and What I Feel: Narcissistic Per- Stress, and Chronic Pain. sonality Disorder. • New Treatment Guidelines for Depression: Medication and Cognitive Therapy. Mid-Morning Lecture: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM • Depression and Suicide: Medication Risks; Postpartum Depression. • What Just Happened Here? The Person with Borderline Personality Disorder. • Complementary Measures to Treat Depression: Exercise, Dietary Strategies, • Coping With Difficult Behaviors: Avoidant, Dependent, and Paranoid Person- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), and ality Disorders. Vagal Stimulation. • Self-Centered and Guiltless with Loss of Empathy: Antisocial Personality • Bipolar Disorders: Avoiding Diagnostic and Treatment Pitfalls; Medication and Disorder. Compliance Problems. • Chronic Stress and the Brain: How Self-Defense Turns Into Self-Destruction. • Beyond “Either/Or” Thinking in Treatment: Medications, Mindfulness, and • Early-Life Traumatic Stress: A Powerful Path to Mental Illness. Psychotherapy. Lunch: 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM Evaluation, Questions, and Answers: 3:20 PM – 3:30 PM Afternoon Lecture: 12:20 PM – 2:00 PM • Anxiety Disorders: Diagnostic Pitfalls and Treatment Options for Fear Out of Control. Biomed’s Website: www.biomedglobal.com MEETING TIMES & LOCATIONS CALGARY, AB EDMONTON, AB EDMONTON, AB CALGARY, AB Thu., Oct. 18, 2018 Fri., Oct. 19, 2018 Thu., Nov. 1, 2018 Fri., Nov. 2, 2018 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM Clarion Hotel & Conference Center Radisson Hotel & Convention Center Radisson Hotel & Convention Center Clarion Hotel & Conference Center 2120 - 16th Avenue Northeast 4520 76th Avenue Northwest 4520 76th Avenue Northwest 2120 - 16th Avenue Northeast Calgary, AB Edmonton, AB Edmonton, AB Calgary, AB INSTRUCTOR Dr. Michael E. Howard (Ph.D.) is a full-time psychologist-lecturer for INR. Dr. Howard is a board-certified clinical neuro-psychologist and health psychologist who is an internationally-recognized authority on brain-behavior relationships, traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, psychiatric disorders, aging, forensic neuro-psychology, and rehabilitation. During his 30-year career, Dr. Howard has been on the faculty of three medical schools, headed three neuro-psychology departments, and directed treatment programs for individuals with brain injury, dementia, addiction, chronic pain, psychiatric disorders, and other disabilities. Biomed reserves the right to change instructors without prior notice. Every instructor is either a compensated employee or independent contractor of Biomed. FEE: CHEQUES: $109.00 (CANADIAN) per person with pre-registration or $134.00 (CANADIAN) at the door if space remains. CREDIT CARDS: Most credit-card charges will be processed in Canadian dollars. Some charges will be in U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate. The tuition includes all applicable Canadian taxes. At the seminar, participants will receive a complete course syllabus. Tuition payment receipt will also be available at the seminar. TO REGISTER: Please complete and return the registration form below. Or online at: www.biomedglobal.com. Or register toll-free with Visa, MasterCard, Ameri- can Express®, or Discover® by calling 1-888-724-6633. Or fax a copy of your completed registration form–including Visa, MasterCard, American Express®, or Discover® Number–to (925) 687-0860. ACCREDITATION INFORMATION Social Workers completing this program will receive course completion certificates. This course is cosponsored by the Institute for Natural Resources (INR). The Institute for Natural Resources, Provider #1356, is approved as a provider for social work education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) www.aswb.org, through the Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. The Institute for Natural Resources maintains responsibility for the program. ASWB Approval Period: 02/28/2018 – 02/28/2019. Social workers should contact their regulatory board to determine course approval. Social workers participating in this course will receive 6 clinical continuing education hours.This program is approved by the National Association of Social Workers (Provider #886502971-4984) for 6 Social Work continuing education contact hours. For all inquiries, please contact customer service at 1-877-246-6336 or (925) 602-6140.

  Please return form to: Please check course date: REGISTRATION FORM Biomed General (This registration form may be copied.) Box #622 Unit 235, 3545-32 Avenue NE Thu., Oct. 18, 2018 (Calgary, AB) Calgary, AB T1Y 6M6 Thu., Nov. 1, 2018 (Edmonton, AB) TOLL-FREE: 1-877-246-6336 Fri., Oct. 19, 2018 (Edmonton, AB) Fri., Nov. 2, 2018 (Calgary, AB) TEL: (925) 602-6140  FAX: (925) 687-0860 REGISTRATION INFORMATION Please print: Please register early and arrive before the scheduled start time. Space Name: Profession: is limited. Attendees requiring special accommodation must advise Biomed in writing at least 50 days in advance and provide proof of Home Address: Professional License #: disability. Registrations are subject to cancellation after the sched- City: State: Zip: Lic. Exp. Date: uled start time. A transfer at no cost can be made from one seminar location to another if space is available. Registrants cancelling up to Home Phone: ( ) Work Phone: ( ) 72 hours before a seminar will receive a tuition refund less a $35.00 Employer: E-Mail: (CANADIAN) administrative fee or, if requested, a full-value voucher, (needed for confirmation & receipt) good for one year, for a future seminar. Other cancellation requests Please enclose full payment with registration form. Check method of payment. will only be honored with a voucher. Cancellation or voucher requests Cheque for $109.00 (CANADIAN) (Make payable to Biomed General) must be made in writing. If a seminar cannot be held for reasons ® ® beyond the control of the sponsor (e.g., acts of God), the registrant Charge the equivalent of $109.00 (CANADIAN) to my Visa MasterCard American Express Discover will receive free admission to a rescheduled seminar or a full-value Most credit-card charges will be processed in Canadian dollars. Some charges will be in U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate. voucher, good for one year, for a future seminar. A $35.00 (CANA- DIAN) service charge applies to each returned cheque. A $15.00 fee Card Number: Exp. Date: CVV: (enter all raised numbers) will be charged for the issuance of a duplicate certificate. Fees are (Card Security Code) subject change without notice. The rate of exchange used will be Signature: the one prevailing at the time of the transaction. Please provide an e-mail address above to receive a confirmation and directions to the meeting site. Biomed, 2018, CODE:PAD-B4000-SW ©

2 FALL 2018 THE ADVOCATE Volume 43, Issue 3, Fall 2018 Published by: The Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) 550 10707 100 AVE NW, Edmonton AB T5J 3M1 Ph: 780-421-1167/Toll-free (in AB): 1-800-661-3089

THE Fax: 780-421-1168/Toll-free fax: 1-866-874-8931 ADVOCATE [email protected] — acsw.ab.ca Executive Director & Registrar: Lynn Labrecque King, MSW, RSW [email protected] Associate Registrar: Suzanne MacKinnon, MSW, RCSW [email protected] Managers, Regulatory Practice/Complaints Directors: Bruce Llewellyn, MSW, RSW Sheryl Pearson, MSW, RSW, LLB [email protected] Associate Director - Professional Practice & Advocacy: Jody-Lee Farrah, MSW, RSW Membership Activities - Team Lead: FEATURE STORY Charity Lui, MSW, RSW The Capacity to Care: A Conversation with Alberta’s Child and Youth Advocate Social Workers - Membership Activities: 13 Heather Johnson, SW Dip, RSW Andre Tinio, BSW, RSW Finance & Administration Officer: Kim Hyggen, CPA, CGA Finance & Administration Support: Audrey Kent, CPA, CMA Registration Coordinator: Brenda Gross Executive Assistant / Administrative Team Lead: Noreen Majek Administrative Support Professionals: THE VOICES OF PRIVATE PRACTICE BOOK REVIEW Neetu Dodd Tracy Houben Carlena Johnson Jennifer Vasquez Tami Carlin Toni Harrison 16 Private Practice Committee 19 21 Things You May Not Know Registration/Online Service Support Analyst: Offers New Ways to Connect About the Indian Act Laurie Nelson ACSW Council: President: Richard Gregory, MSc, RSW Vice President: Ajay Pandhi, MSW, RSW FEATURES THE VOICES OF PRIVATE PRACTICE Secretary: Rick Guthrie, MSW, RSW 13 The Capacity to Care: 16 Private Practice Committee Offers Treasurer: vacant A Conversation with Alberta’s New Ways to Connect Members at Large: Dayirai Kapfunde, MSW, RSW Enid Martin, MSW, RSW Child and Youth Advocate Jolene Spies, BSW, RSW Carla Bertsch, MSW, RSW SOCIAL JUSTICE WORKS Cody Murrell, BSW, RSW Baiju Vareed, MSW Equiv, RSW 24 Why I Can No Longer Identify as 18 A Prescription for Equity: Indigenous Social Work Committee Representative: Pro-Choice: An Abortion Advocate Derek Chewka, MSW, RSW A National Drug Plan for All Speaks Out Public Members: Murray Hiebert Bukola Oladunni Salami Trevor Liskawich 26 Day in the Life: Sharon Steinhauer BOOK REVIEW Charmaine Coutinho Laura Delfs 19 21 Things You May Not Know About Editorial Board: 29 There Is Hope: A Holistic Approach Cindy Haugen, BSW, RSW & Samuel Mammen, MSW Equiv, RSW (Co-Chairs) the Indian Act: Helping Canadians Michelle Humeny, RSW Darnel Forro, MSW, RSW to the Opioid Crisis Tasha Novick, BSW, RSW Sherri Tanchak, MSW, RSW Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Andrea Newberry-Koroluk, PhD, RSW Enid Martin, MSW, RSW AROUND OUR PROVINCE Peoples a Reality Cardinal Fomradas, MSW, RSW Editorial services provided by Bird Communications 4 Around Our Province RESEARCH & LEARNING IN Advertising space is available. To place an ad, contact ALBERTA’S COMMUNITIES the ACSW office at [email protected]. The Editorial Board THE BIG PICTURE reserves the right to reject any submissions and advertising. 20 Help Set the Global Agenda for the 8 A Message from the President Winter 2018 Issue Ad Deadline: October 15, 2018 Future of Social Work Canadian subscriptions are $26/year 9 A Message from the Executive (outside Canada: $26 US/year). Please immediately update 21 Reflections of First-Year Social Work your member profile with any address changes. Director & Registrar ISSN 0847 - 2890 Diploma Students PM NO. 40050109 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO IN THE NEWS ETHICS IN ACTION 550 10707 100 AVE NW, EDMONTON AB T5J 3M1 11 Welcome to New The opinions and interpretations expressed in this publication do not 23 The Ethics of Practice Supervision necessarily reflect those of the Alberta College of Social Workers RSWs & RCSWs (ACSW), its editorial board, or contractors. The aforementioned make no guarantee or warranty, either expressed or implied, about the FOR YOUR INFORMATION accuracy or links contained in the Advocate, and are not liable for any INDIGENOUS VOICES direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages that could arise. 30 The Advocate Editorial Policy All material ©2018 by the ACSW or by author. ACSW retains 12 Building an Indigenous copyright when no author is listed. Reprint or copying (including digital or online reproduction in any form) of any Advocate material Practice Framework 31 For Your Information requires written consent of the ACSW.

Cover photo by Darlene Marchuk Printing on Titan Dull text. 10% post consumer waste. Titan participates in a certified forest program. THE ADVOCATE 3 AROUND OUR PROVINCE

BY CHARITY LUI, MSW, RSW

Area coordinators with Heather Johnson Peter Smyth and Damien Lachat Red Deer Day of Learning participants

Enjoying Banff retreat Catherine Maxwell-Day and Nimir Raval Stephanie Warner and Charles Chenard

ACSW Learning Opportunities

We strive to provide learning Edmonton Category A Day on June 23rd. They explored the opportunities for our members. The Edmonton Area Coordinators emotional connection to food, with Career-long learning is imperative for hosted their annual spring Category A Stephanie Warner, BSW, RSW, and our development and competence as Day on May 25th. Nimir Raval, MSW the connection between nature and social workers. Equiv., RSW, presented on Emotional resiliency with Charles Chenard, BSW, Intelligence, and Elli Dehnavi, PhD, RSW. The interactive day included Banff Self-Care Retreat exploring the outdoors – in the rain! presented on Refugee Awareness. The On May 10th and 11th, ACSW Calgary day included a National Film Board If you would like to see ACSW and Bow Valley Area Coordinators host learning opportunities in hosted a retreat in the mountains. movie entitled Unarmed Verses that your area, connect with us by Seventy-five social workers came looks at neighbourhood gentrification emailing Carlena Johnson at together in Banff to learn and in Toronto and how a youth uses the [email protected]. rejuvenate. Learning about self-care arts as a way to cope. Following the was the focus and workshop topics film, panelistsPeter Smyth, MSW, included: expressive arts, reiki, soul RSW, Bobby-Jo Halton, BSW, RSW, retrieval, the ethics of self-care, and Damien Lachat unpacked the film the ethics of the use of power and and initiated conversation around HeartMath, a system to reduce stress the changes in the new Edmonton Ice and promote wellness. The Juniper District. Hotel, and its backdrop of the beautiful Mount Rundle, served to inspire and Red Deer Day of Learning CHARITY LUI is the Membership Activities Team invigorate attendees. We hope to host Social workers gathered at the Kerry Lead. You can contact her at [email protected] this event again next year. Wood Nature Centre in Red Deer regarding submissions for the Advocate.

4 FALL 2018 Connecting with Students

We love connecting with students! This spring, both the Cold Lake and Lac La Biche campuses were eager Membership Activities Team Lead Charity Lui, MSW, to learn more as they embark on their journey in the social RSW, was invited by the Portage College Social Work work profession. program to speak to students about the ACSW. Students at

Central Alberta Social Work Conference

‘Building Resiliency in the Face of Adversity’ was the theme of this year’s Central Alberta Social Work Conference on June 7th and 8th. Keynote speaker Tyler Pelke shared his deeply personal experience with trauma and resilience. Rob Chubb, the second keynote, Conference volunteers with Heather Johnson and Andre Tinio presented on the positive power of humour and laughter. The conference included other workshops on various topics. ACSW president Richard Gregory, MSc, RSW, Membership Activities staffHeather Johnson, SW Dip, RSW, and Andre Tinio, BSW, RSW, thoroughly enjoyed the learning and the opportunity to network with social workers from across the province. Enjoying the conference Tyler Pelke, Louise Wall, Heather Johnson

Other Activities

Next Up is a leadership program that encourages young people to become active agents for social justice. On May 23rd, Social Worker - Membership Activities Andre Tinio attended their graduation celebration. Brenna Gavel, Brenna Gavel ACSW staff at Edmonton's Pride Parade BSW, RSW, an inner city social worker, graduated from the program. ACSW is happy to support and collaborate with our Congratulations, Brenna! social policy partners, one of which is Public Interest Edmonton Pride Parade was on June 9th. The theme this Alberta. On June 19th, Membership Activities year was ‘Full Spectrum Pride’. ACSW staffAndre Tinio Coordinator Andre Tinio attended their Annual and Carlena Johnson and friends attended. General Meeting.

THE ADVOCATE 5 AROUND OUR PROVINCE

Walking on Common Ground

ACSW joined Poundmaker’s Lodge and allies in a Reconciliation Walk on July 11th. Many people travelled from different provinces to show support and solidarity. The group started the walk at Canada Place and travelled on Jasper Avenue all the way to the Alberta Legislature. Speeches and presentations were given on the steps of government. As social workers, we are committed to social action and honour the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action. Photos by Darlene Marchuk

6 FALL 2018 Upcoming ACSW Events 2018 ACSW • September 17, 2018 - Deadline: Call for Proposals for the ACSW 2019 STUDENT BURSARY Annual Conference Starting August 31st until to • October 20, 2018 - Jasper Retreat October 26th, 2018, applications • November 2, 2018 - ACSW Professional Development Day, Calgary are open for the ACSW Student Bursary. All ACSW student members • November 29, 2018 - Edmonton Holiday Social and registered social workers are • Date TBA - Calgary Holiday Social eligible. For more details, see the • April 4-6, 2019 - ACSW Annual Conference - BMO Centre at Stampede Student page on acsw.ab.ca. Park – Calgary

Alberta Association of Social Work Diploma Programs Annual Retreat and Meeting BY DARNEL T. FORRO, MSW, RSW

From April 30 to May 2, 2018, the Alberta Association of Social Work Diploma Programs (AASWDP) held its annual retreat and meeting in Canmore. The theme, “Social Work Diploma Programs: Staying Strong on Shifting Ground”, reflected the identity, strength, innovation, and resilience of Alberta’s diploma programs. Sessions included, “Out in Left Field? An Introductory Analysis of RDC’s SOWK 212 Preparation for Practice” by Carmen Plante, MSW, RSW; “Elders are Our Teachers” by Wilda Listener, MSW, RSW; and “Show us your Story: Use of Photovoice Elements in Social Work Education” by yours truly. This was followed by a collaborative discussion and sharing on educational trends and issues that are of interest to the programs. As a fairly new social work instructor who has had the privilege of attending this event for two years now, This year’s meeting was hosted by Red Deer College’s Social Work Department, led by Brenda Joyce, MSW, the AASWDP gathering is not only an opportunity RSW, Program Chair. The following institutions took for professional growth and learning, it has also part: Blue Quills University, Keyano College, MacEwan become a safe space for mutual support, validation, University, Maskwacis Cultural College, Medicine rejuvenation, and empowerment. The meaningfulness Hat College, Mount Royal University, Northern Lakes that comes from shared experiences and fostered College, NorQuest College, Portage College, and relationships with colleagues in the educational field Yellowhead Tribal College. is truly inspiring.

THE ADVOCATE 7 THE BIG PICTURE

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

OVER THE SUMMER, I had the opportunity to attend the International Social Work, Education and Social Development (SWSD) conference in Ireland. This conference marked 90 years of global social work conferences and was designed to encourage discussion on the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. The conference themes were poverty RICHARD GREGORY is the and quality of life, social justice, and climate change and sustainable environments. President of ACSW Council. He is also chair and instructor There were 2163 delegates, (including a very strong Alberta contingent), representing of the Social Work program at 99 countries from 6 continents, with 10 keynote addresses and 195 sessions, plus a Medicine Hat College. You can contact Richard at preconference trip to Belfast focusing on social work during and after ‘the Troubles’ in [email protected]. Northern Ireland. Several sessions presented research on current issues, while others provided thought-pro- voking critique of our profession. I attended several sessions where presenters questioned social work’s role in social justice. Some argued that social work was not committed to social justice, contending that rather than engaging in change at macro levels, the tendency has increasingly been to align ourselves with clinical perspectives influenced by psychology. Another theme was challenging social workers to become more active in protecting the environment. One of the speakers stated that climate change “is an existential human crisis.” Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, in her keynote address stated that “strong thriving communities will be at the forefront of tackling our many challenges.” Other presenters identified that human rights must be kept on the global agenda, and some noted that human rights and social justice have not been the dominant discourse of social work education and practice. It was also identified that social workers have not always done the right thing around human rights and that we must have the confidence to confront our troubled past. There were many presentations by Canadians at the conference, including a keynote address by Cindy Blackstock. One of her messages was, “When people want you to sit down and be quiet, you need to stand up and speak out!” She also stated that “courage activates our values.” Other speakers emphasized the importance of joining the growing civil society movement advocating for human rights, justice and action. Some stated that radicalism and political activism have always been part of social work, but many contest that fewer social workers are embracing this. One speaker put it well, stating “being politically neutral comes at a cost to the people we work with”. This was my third international social work conference. Each has provided amazing opportunities to hear international perspectives on issues that affect our profession and identity, the work we do, and the people and communities we serve. For me, this conference identified key issues that require rigorous discussion and action. We are very fortunate that in 2020, the International Federation of Social Work conference will be hosted by the University of Calgary. This will be a great opportunity for Canadian social workers to engage in important discussions from a global perspective.

Richard Gregory, MSc, RSW

8 FALL 2018 A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & REGISTRAR

AS A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION AND A REGULATORY BODY, the Alberta College of Social Workers participates in collaborative meetings and projects with national counterparts. Three important meetings took place in Ottawa, June 8 to 11, 2018. This update reports on the developments and issues being talked about at a national level. LYNN LABRECQUE KING is the Executive Director and Registrar Canadian Association of Social for ACSW. Contact her at [email protected] to share Workers (CASW) your thoughts on this or any CASW is a federation of professional social other topic. CASW committed to work associations. The current CASW president is Jan Christianson-Wood, and the executive revising the 2005 CASW director is Fred Phelps, while our own ACSW Code of Ethics. vice-president, Ajay Pandhi, is also vice- president for CASW. Currently, eight of ten provinces participate in the federation and each year, the CASW holds meetings for members, this year in Ottawa. (Last year, our College hosted in Alberta). Here are some highlights. View the CASW Strategic Plan here: https://www.casw-acts.ca/en/about-casw/about-casw. • With the intent of weaving reconciliation with Canada’s Indigenous peoples into the fabric of CASW, CASW committed to revising the 2005 CASW Code of Ethics, Practice Guidelines and Scope of Practice with a reconciliation lens. • CASW continues to recognize child welfare as an important area of practice through projects that survey and speak on the experience of Canadian social workers in this area. • Advocacy initiatives include: lobbying for a human rights approach to housing; advocating with federal government to treat and fund mental health on par with physical health; to advocate for private practice inclusion of social workers in health benefits; for the concept of a Social Care Act to ensure equity across Canada; for inclusion of social workers in PTSD legislation; for student loan forgiveness for social workers in rural and remote areas; for basic income to help end poverty in Canada; and for full and accurate implementation of Jordan’s Principle.

Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators (CCSWR) CCSWR is a network and corporation for social work regulatory bodies in Canada, made up of all ten provinces. Their board consists of the presidents and executive directors for each province. I am pleased to be serving a second term as president for this national coalition. Highlights from this year’s national meeting included creation of a statement on the role of national regulators in recognition of social work education programs, and an agreement by each province to review and work towards implementing policy for recognition of electronic practice by social workers across provincial borders. The CCSWR mission, bylaws and more are on their website: http://www.ccswr-ccorts.ca/.

Continued on page 10

THE ADVOCATE 9 THE BIG PICTURE

Richard Gregory, Lynn Labrecque King and Cindy Blackstock in Dublin

Intersectoral Committee included: agreement to collaborate What did you do last summer? The Intersectoral Committee is on a sector study and to continue to The answer for hundreds of social comprised of two representatives form joint statements for National workers from all over the world was each from CASW, CCSWR and the Social Work Month; a plan to work at trip to the Social Work, Education Canadian Association of Social Work together on a potential distance and Social Development conference Educators. This group operates in Dublin, Ireland. ACSW President resource for foreign-trained social under a formal memorandum of Richard Gregory and I were on workers; and to continue to explore understanding to collaborate on joint hand for the many workshops and projects of intersecting importance ways to share research, such as keynotes. We were especially excited in the field of social work. Highlights participation in webinars and in each to hear Cindy Blackstock ‘rock the from this year’s face-to-face meeting others’ conferences. house’ as she inspired a standing ovation with her reminder to speak

Dixon Sookraj, UBC; Lynn Labrecque King; Kathy Amy Johansson and Elaine Spencer, Hogarth, Vice President, CASWE; and other attendee Red Deer College up for justice, especially when no one else will. We were proud to connect with University of Calgary faculty at the events and spoke with many in support of the U of C’s sponsorship of the 2020 World Conference in Alberta.

Lynn Labrecque King, MSW, RSW Jackie Sieppert, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sue Dworak-Peck, IFSW Ambassador and Jan Work, U of C, with Lynn Labrecque King Christanson-Wood, CASW President

10 FALL 2018 IN THE NEWS

Welcome to New RSWs & RCSWs TOTAL MEMBERSHIP OF REGISTERED SOCIAL WORKERS AS OF JUNE 30, 2018 8,125

Jerin Abraham Sandra Davis Nathani Karkanis Christine Ndayizeye Elizabeth Sim Rachael Anderson Erica DeLuca Liana Ruth Kearl Lynsey Rae Nelson Walter Skaggs Kehinde Adekusibe Ariyo Kathleen Anne DeSousa Michelle M Keitges Christie Noble Erin Marie Smith Laurie Alexandra Atkinson Giovanni Di Monaco Cathy Lynn Kendell Karina Lorraine Nottveit Summer Rayne Smith Nkeiruka Erefa Azozie Jonathon Malcolm Dirkson Kayla Renee King Melissa Nyenkamp Jenna Kathleen Smyth Meghan Alexis Badger Jocelyn Elaine Doetzel Kristina Kopp Francis Oduro Philocity Sifis Solomon Jaclyn Baker Nathania Marie Dreiling Mikayla Brooke Kotke Mary Chikamnele Okorie Clementine Sombie Sarah Ballard Shelley Du Liliane Kouekam Funke Olokude Savadogo Jessica Lynn Bautista Tammy Du Joel Timothy Kranenburg Keeyah Enid Orr Ethan Roy Stokell Myrna Balanban Belingon Kristen Dubrule Elizabeth May Krieger-Thul Kelly Anne Ouellette Corinna Szostak Ashley Suzannah Jane Dawn Marie Ekdahl Justin Reuben John Krill Stephanie Margaret Ovens Dunia Ebrahim Taha Benson Stewart James Elton Jillian Krokosh Boris Robert Papuga Gidgette Taylor Codi Bergen Daisy Elizabeth Escoto Zeljka Kudlek Dugonjic Beck Mackenzie Paterson Mishonne Marjorie Mildred Temple Summer Sunrise Big Smoke Lidia Veronica Espinosa Atehawung Ophilia Kumbah Amy Lynn Patrick Samuel Thornton Tibbals Courtenay Ellen Black Monique Karol Feland Adiatu Kuyatah Daphne Joy Pauls Hendrika Maria Tuithof de Tommy Blake Stephen Fenn Frankie Elizabeth Lambert Christine Marie Pearson Jonge Stephanie Blanchet Lauren Elizabeth Foster Dawn Marie Landers Melanie Peitzsche Mfonobong Edidiong Udofia Chloe Marie Blondin Marissa Danielle Fraser Sharon Ann Lang Tara Penney Nisha Uppal Shauna Lee Bohnke Alyssa Fraser-Hopkins Samantha LeBlanc Jennifer Carin Perrin Mandee Leigh Urlacher Kulwinder Kaur Brar Nicole Frenette Elizabeth Lenaghan Cruz Elena Pinzon Laura Haley Vulcano Kendra Chontelle Bremner Chanelle Gagne Ceanne Lenora Mavis Lepps Cynthia Lynne Pope Krystal Elizabeth Waldo Zoee Alexandra Brinkman Landon Edward Gallup Amy Nicole Lewis Querida Quarshie Olive Irene Walsh Shelley Leanne Broomfield Kristan Rachelle Catherine Leaticia Loki-Ehizojie Julie Christine Rasmussen Xiao Wang Matthew Brown Gaskell Rebekah Leanne Lynch Kelly Mona-Lisa Reader Stephanie Nicole Wasylyk Terona Carmeta Buchanan Danielle Brandy Geissler Kathryn Annette Lythgoe Kristine Ritchie Hannah Clare Watler Jacqueline Anne Buis Stephanie Gillanders Christina Jean MacDonald Germaine Villaruel Rivera Breanna Rose Webster Elizabeth Burritt Alexandra Gingras Marjory Leanne Mackenzie Corene Rutledge Jill Amy White Amee Rebecca Busch Theresa Isata Goba Sarah-Ann Ann MacPhail Mandida Samantha Bailee Payge Wigmore Nathalie Butler Amanda Dawn Granstrand Kelsi Mader Sakutukwa Monique Symone Williston Sarah Nicole Callin Sarah Green Tracy Leah Mastrangelo Jahnavel Sanchez Noguez Julia Elaine Wilson Melissa Sue Campeau Everett Randall Hamilton Jamie Lee Ann Matthews Natalia Carolina Sbarzella Courtney Nicole Schou Robyn Wilson Terri Isabel Cardinal Laurie Hamm Sarah Victoria May Reagan Olivia Schultz Amie Windle Alicia Carignan Montana Grace Hancocks Courtney Alexandra McDonough Danielle Ashley Sehn Lacy Winters Rachelle Carriere Jamad Suleiman Hassan Emily McMillan Theresa Lee Seidler Frances Yarbrough Megan Laurette Carrobourg Amanda Hillier Jennifer Michele Misurelli Patricia Mariama Sesay Evan Day Yardley Melissa Audrey Emiko Lenora Rachel Hoof Castellucchio Cheryl Priscilla Houle Brooke Monique Montour Monica Sesma-Vazquez Soahn Yoon Breanne Chambers Emma McLaren Hunter Marie-Noel Njulefack Morfaw Danielle Claire Sharanowski Ladan Khalid Yusuf Sharleen Charan Don Ihekwoaba Nicola Mosley Kathryn Rebecca Shaw Daniel William Zoetewey Kyla Cherwaty Farzana Imran Ian Kenneth Myhra Linda Sih Fung Katherine Zubiak Malisa Chiu Stefannie Nicole Ireland Kit Lai Kitty Choi Samuel Garrett Jackson Brittany Coburn Alyson Paige Jamieson TOTAL REGISTERED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKERS MEMBERSHIP AS OF JULY 1, 2018 Jasmine Colbourne Varinderjit Johal 248 Courtney Sarah-Raye Cook Daniel Jong Jenna-Marie Alisha Cowan Renato Kalamar Brandie Andrews Lana Bentley Susan Reimer-Roslinski Clair Davies Yeonsil Kang Constance Kaweesi Marcia Love

THE ADVOCATE 11 INDIGENOUS VOICES

4. Resources for registered social workers to share with their Building an employers to educate and support their work with Indigenous Indigenous Practice clients, and, 5. A review of current models.

Work has commenced on this project Framework with University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills BY DEREK CHEWKA, MSW, RSW leading the research, which includes a literature review, focus groups and individual interviews to gather AS I WRITE THIS, I realize that • Laurie Mason-Kulusic, SW Dip, RSW feedback, as well as a partnership summer will be over when this edition • Amanda Allen, BSW, RSW with a First Nation involved with the is published. I hope everyone enjoyed Our committee is supported by ACSW delivery of child intervention services. the sun and took time to attend one social worker, Heather Johnson, This will allow for a robust discussion of the many powwows and cultural events that occurred in the province. SwDip, RSW, and we are pleased to with those delivering the services to Edmonton was fortunate to host the have a MacEwan University social ensure the guidelines and standards Alberta Indigenous Games in August. work student currently working with developed are meaningful, purposeful, The games always amaze me and are a us, Suzanne Doucet. We are excited and reflect Indigenous worldviews. to have a full slate of committee great platform for Indigenous people We want to hear from you! To members and are finalizing our own to share their talents. ensure that our Indigenous Practice strategic plan for the upcoming year. In the last article, I shared that the Framework is inclusive of all ACSW conference was the first time I wanted to take this time to update Indigenous people, it is paramount the Leadership Circle of the Indigenous our membership on the development that we review these guidelines Social Work Committee met face to of an Indigenous Social Work Practice with as many Indigenous groups as face. I also stated I would formally Framework. Supported by funding possible. We invite our Métis, Inuit, introduce our group in this edition, through an Urban Indigenous Project First Nation and ally members to Grant through the Ministry of so as promised, our Leadership Circle participate. If you would like to host includes the following: Indigenous Relations and the ACSW, a focus group or participate in an the framework aims to address some • Derek Chewka, MSW, RSW, Chair interview, please contact Heather of the following: • Verna Wittigo, MSW, RSW, Elder Johnson at [email protected] 1. Creation of Indigenous • Bertha Laboucan, BSW, RSW and we will ensure your voice and Practice guidelines, feedback is included. We will continue • Connie Hesjedal, MSW, RSW 2. Tools and strategies such to update you on our progress. • Maxine Salopree, BSW, RSW as Indigenous philosophy, • Tanya Shaw, BSW, RSW worldviews and approaches • Theron Black, Student Member that support wise practice that registered social workers can • Krista Auger, Student Member reference when working with • Wilda Listener, MSW, RSW Indigenous clients, • Allyson Dennehy, BSW, RSW 3. Resources for registered social • Gabriella Manyshots, MSW, RSW workers to access in their work DEREK CHEWKA is the chair of the ACSW • Carrie Avveduti, BSW, RSW with Indigenous clients, Indigenous Social Work Committee.

12 FALL 2018 FEATURE STORY THE CAPACITY TO CARE: A CONVERSATION WITH ALBERTA’S CHILD AND YOUTH ADVOCATE

BY KRISTIN BAKER

E ALL KNOW THAT A TRUST- WBASED RELATIONSHIP between a social worker and a client is essential to the successful outcome of any social work intervention. But what happens when you don’t have the time or energy to devote to cultivating these relationships? Del Graff, MSW, RSW, is familiar with what can occur when social workers feel they no longer have the capacity to nurture relationships with clients. “Social work is a profession that’s about individuals working with people in a relationship, and to have that relationship, we have to be involved and connected to each other,” says Graff. “When we’re engaged that way, then my ability to support you is much more substantial. The danger of not having that relationship is that I can’t support you.” Graff is the Provincial Child and Youth Advocate. Though far from the only social worker practicing at the macro level in our province, Graff is in a unique position to influence policy in his role and stands as an example to the profession and community of the potential reach of social work. Together with his team of social workers, advocates and support staff, he works towards affirming and

THE ADVOCATE 13 acting upon the rights, interests and that of a transaction as opposed effective way to engage with groups viewpoints of Alberta’s vulnerable to an investment wherein a social and influence positive change. But children. Last year, the Office of the worker enthusiastically engages with that also requires engaging with Child and Youth Advocate served someone. If your investment and people and thinking critically about almost 3,000 youth and children interest is diminished, your capacity what you are trying to achieve. through advocacy, investigations, to engage with your client along their “There’s a whole host of things that legal representation and outreach. path lessens as well. It may even help us, but at the end of the day He acknowledges that working with appear to your client that you are we need to reflect on our own. It a vulnerable population—whether apathetic to their situation, when in demands a level of self-honesty, but it be children and youth or another fact that’s not the case. This could it’s not just for our own self growth; vulnerable group—can at times be potentially affect a client’s decision it’s so we can do more effective social very challenging for social workers. to seek support from you (or another work,” he says. The combination of busy work social worker) now or in the future. “Shifting perspective goes to the schedules, personal lives and the If you find yourself feeling that you responsibility we have as social constant knowledge of the difficult can’t fully engage in the relationship workers. We need to reflect on our circumstances faced by clients can work, our practice, our emotions. start to take a toll on capacities and We’re in this work because we want emotions. This can contribute to to make a positive difference for apathy—or the appearance of apathy— vulnerable people. That’s where the which can interfere with building The combination of sense of purpose and satisfaction these critical relationships with clients. busy work schedules, comes from.” “Most of us go into the field of social Graff has seen firsthand the impact work because we care deeply about personal lives and the that relationships with social workers the people we intend to serve. We constant knowledge of the and other caring people can have on want to be effective and able to help difficult circumstances vulnerable children and youth. “As an others be successful with whatever advocate, I get to talk with adults who challenges they face,” Graff says. faced by clients can start were at one time children in care. I’ll “When there are challenges that can to take a toll on capacities often ask them how they were able create discouragement or difficulty, and emotions to rise above the circumstances they one way of reacting is to disengage were challenged with,” says Graff. from those relationships. Disengaging “They always tell me that there was can happen over time, sometimes required to effectively assist a client, someone who took an interest in without us even realizing it.” Graff suggests taking a step back their lives. That interest, commitment When you can’t be engaged in a to allow yourself to regroup, reflect and relationship with that individual relationship with a client, you don’t and find support. He stresses the changed their lives. It’s phenomenal serve that person as well as you could. importance of having good supports to think one person who really cares “We get stuck in a way of behaving in your life—both personally and about another can have that effect.” with people that we can forget why we professionally—and trying to live Graff is not only passionate about got into this work in the first place. in a balanced and healthy manner. the positive impact that creating The very things that drove us into He also affirms the value of practice relationships with individual wanting to be helpful to people can supervision that goes above and clients can afford. His dedication be the things that go by the wayside,” beyond that provided by your manager. extends to bringing attention to the says Graff. Sometimes a broader perspective is challenging circumstances faced by He notes that when this happens, needed to affect change. A community many children in our province. In the relationship between a social development or community his capacity as the Child and Youth worker and a client can turn into mobilization approach may be a more Advocate, he builds relationships

14 FALL 2018 with community members and other are our children, it’s our problem and stakeholders to increase awareness of we have a responsibility to make sure issues faced by Alberta’s vulnerable our children are supported’. When children and youth. communities get that way, they can shift things like you wouldn’t believe.” Part of his role is to influence the government to make positive changes His vision is that every vulnerable for this demographic, though he says child in our province feels like they he leans towards increasing awareness belong where they live, have people of issues in communities rather than around that care about them, have advancing recommendations straight multiple advocates in their lives and to the government. He finds that the supports they need to flourish. issues affecting Alberta’s youth often “But for any of that to happen, it get more attention and action from does take that collective. That’s what the government if communities bring social work is all about…that through the issues forward. a variety of vehicles, we’re able to make it so that those people who are vulnerable today are less vulnerable tomorrow—that they have more capacity and more choice.” That’s what social work Social workers are critical to this PROVINCE is all about…that through process of change, says Graff, and OF ALBERTA he wants those in the profession to a variety of vehicles, actively promote this incredible value ADVOCATES we’re able to make it of social work, and social workers, • Office of the Child and so that those people to society. “There needs to be more Youth Advocate: recognition of the complexities of www.ocya.alberta.ca who are vulnerable social work but also the rewards of • Alberta’s Health Advocate and being a social worker,” he says. today are less vulnerable Mental Health Patient Advocate: tomorrow—that they “In this province there are social www.albertahealthadvocates.ca have more capacity and workers who work effectively with • Office of the Seniors Advocate: vulnerable people every day. We www.seniorsadvocateab.ca more choice need to recognize and celebrate • Farmers’ Advocate Office: how important social work is in www.farmersadvocate.gov.ab.ca our communities.” “When Albertans find out something • Property Rights Advocate Office: needs to be done to improve the www.alberta.ca/property-rights- situation of vulnerable children, advocate.aspx they’ll step up and do their part,” • Utilities Consumer Advocate: he says. www.ucahelps.alberta.ca Once people recognize what’s • Advocate for Persons with negatively affecting the children in Disabilities (currently underway): their community, they also need to www.alberta.ca/advocate- recognize that they have some power for-persons-with-disabilities- to do something about it. “We need consultation.aspx KRISTIN BAKER is a communications consultant to influence communities to say, ‘It’s based in Edmonton. She’s active in her community not someone else’s problem. These and often can be found reading or running.

THE ADVOCATE 15 THE VOICES OF PRIVATE PRACTICE

THE ACSW PRIVATE PRACTICE COMMITTEE created different Private Practice subcommittee groups based on requests from our last annual meeting in Calgary in September 2017. Committee Participants were asked about their needs related to support and resources in the private practice community. Offers New Ways The subcommittees requested by the attendees included networking, to Connect consultation, and social justice. The Networking Subcommittee BY SHARON STOPFORTH, MSW, RSW, WITH FOREWORD BY TERESA WINFIELD, MSW, RSW started last year in November and the Peer Consult Subcommittee started In an effort to support and connect private practitioners around the issues that are in January this year. Liz Hides, MSW, important to their practice, the ACSW Private Practice Committee (PPC) is always RSW, the co-chair of the Private seeking input from their target audience. Last year, we received some suggestions Practice Committee, and I have been and got to work on rolling out new opportunities! facilitating these new subcommittees via GoToMeeting which is a platform for connecting participants via internet or phone. This makes meetings accessible and offers a platform that can include multiple participants. Meetings occur monthly on a Thursday morning from 10 to 11:30 am for both groups. The requirement for membership for both groups is to be listed on the Private Practice Roster, which simply ensures that social workers participating are in good standing with the ACSW, are covered by insurance, and receive on-going supervision. The other requirement for membership on the Networking Subcommittee is to have at least two years of private practice experience. This is because the needs of new practitioners in private practice are quite different from those already established in their practice. So far, both subcommittees have seen a good turnout. We have 17 social workers signed up for the Networking Subcommittee and nine social workers for the Peer Consult

16 FALL 2018 Subcommittee. An average of three ideas for getting it started. One of the that the Social Justice Subcommittee to four people attend each of the main tasks that such a group could could tackle. monthly meetings. focus on would be to write letters We are also trying to promote the In the Peer Consult Subcommittee, we to insurance companies in order to Private Practice Roster as a great discuss a case amongst the attendees advocate the recognition of social resource for social workers in Alberta and provide positive feedback to know who is actively in private and suggestions to the counsellor practice, where they are located and presenting the case. Each of the their areas of specialization. attendees has a different practice For more information on the lens to contribute to the discussion While it hasn’t launched Private Practice Committee or and so far the discussions have been yet, we would love to subcommittees, or if you have any quite educational. In the Networking questions, please contact me at Subcommittee, we discuss upcoming get a Social Justice [email protected]. or recent training among the group, Subcommittee off We are always looking for ways to and business practices such as filing the ground. connect private practitioners with systems, documentation procedures, one another! advertising methods, referral sources, etc. Of course, these subcommittees workers as professionals who should are continuing to evolve and we hope be eligible for coverage. This task was that more social workers in private undertaken by the Private Practice practice take an interest. Committee several years ago and While it hasn’t launched yet, we much progress was made, though would love to get a Social Justice there continue to be some companies SHARON STOPFORTH is a registered social who have not made the shift. Of worker and a certified Integrative Body Subcommittee off the ground. We’re Psychotherapy practitioner who has been in hearing keen interest and some good course, there are many other topics private practice for the past 10 years.

THE ADVOCATE 17 SOCIAL JUSTICE WORKS

Ensuring universal access to medically necessary prescription drugs is not only A Prescription the ethical thing to do, it is also fiscally responsible. Canadians need a national pharmacare program: a national, for Equity publicly funded and administered insurance plan that would cover drug A National Drug Plan for All costs the same way Medicare covers BY SANDRA AZOCAR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FRIENDS OF MEDICARE hospital and doctor costs, providing universal access to safe and appropriate Friends of Medicare is a provincial coalition of individuals, service organizations, care. It would provide equal access to social justice groups, unions, associations, churches and other organizations prescription drugs for all Canadians, whose goal is to raise public awareness on concerns related to Medicare in replacing our uneven and unfair Alberta and Canada. Friends of Medicare is an ACSW policy partner. patchwork of provincial programs and private insurance. It would also control costs by allowing providers to negotiate OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM It can be safely said that Canada’s good prices and reduce administrative is at the cusp of a historical universal public health care system costs, saving Canadians between $4 expansion unmatched since the effectively ends as soon as a patient is billion and $11 billion per year. inception of Medicare. The federal handed a prescription to fill. Universality is a key principle of health government, along with their Across the country, we see a care and prescription drugs are a vital provincial counterparts, is currently patchwork of provincial programs that component of health care. Giving in conversations as to what the have resulted in unequal coverage. people the medications they need implementation of a national Alberta is no exception to this and as saves money by preventing health pharmacare program would look like. such we have 23 public plans that only problems or speeding recovery from It has taken decades of advocacy to cover twenty percent of all Albertans health problems. reach this critical moment. – 900,000 out of a population of 4 Friends of Medicare supports the million. Where you live, how much Tommy Douglas’ vision of Medicare establishment of a national pharmacare you make, your age and if you have involved two phases. The first phase program with universal coverage for a serious illness, such as cancer, addressed the universality of our all Canadians. If you do too, please determines how much you pay and health care system – a system based get involved by signing our petition, what gets covered. on need and not ability to pay. The sharing your stories with us, joining us second phase involves a restructuring In many cases, Albertans requiring in our lobby efforts with your MP of our health care delivery system to medication face impossible decisions, and MLA. For more information as to include dental care, vision care and like choosing between purchasing their how you can get involved go to pharmacare. He understood that drugs or putting food on the table. www.friendsofmedicare.org. improved health for all Canadians One in five households in Alberta is essential to controlling costs. experience financial barriers to getting To date the financial barriers have their prescribed medication. been somewhat removed, while Albertans need a pharmacare program pharmacare, part of the second phase, that ensures everyone has access is still the unfinished business. to affordable and safe prescription Canada is the only developed country drugs. There are currently too many with a universal health care system that financial barriers preventing seniors SANDRA AZOCAR is the Executive Director of does not provide universal coverage and chronically ill Albertans from Friends of Medicare and has been a social activist of medically necessary prescriptions. obtaining medications. for more than 30 years.

18 FALL 2018 BOOK REVIEW

federal legislation to make clear the obligations the federal government 21 Things You May bears towards First Nations peoples” is, however, hardly convincing as a solu- tion for Indigenous self-government, Not Know About the self-determination and self-reliance. One can’t help going, What? Another law? Something about legislated Indian Act de-colonization just doesn’t inspire optimism and hope. A danger of the impact Helping Canadians Make Reconciliation with of Joseph’s good writing is this: while Indigenous Peoples a Reality you are rightfully set on wishing for the

REVIEWED BY EUGENE IP, DPHIL, RSW Indian Act to disappear, you quickly realize that even if the Act is no longer 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act: Helping there, First Nations will continue to Canadians Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples a Reality have to go after their liberating agenda through a colonial state with sovereign- By Bob Joseph ty over them. So what matters is not the Indigenous Relations Press, 2018 Act but how firmly entrenched it is. 189 pages Joseph amasses useful appendices: Indian Residential Schools: A Chronology; AS “INDIGENIZATION” IS TRENDING Although the worst of most of the 21 the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Things (e.g., “denied women status” and in the world of mainstream Canadian of Canada: Calls to Action; and an insert “created residential schools”) can legiti- institutions, Bob Joseph’s book of Class Activities, Discussion Guide and mately be talked about in the past tense, lends itself to this post-Truth and Additional Reading which starts with a much has not changed for the better Reconciliation Commission movement. “Personal Pledge of Reconciliation with for Indigenous folks as far as the Indian The subtitle’s promise of being useful to Indigenous Peoples”. This appendix Act is concerned. For one deceptively the quest of healing Indigenous relations package aims to engage readers to con- simple thing, the Indian Act remains in is a timely lure to check the book out, nect their raised consciousness around effect today. That is, Indigenous folks as institutions continue to need ideas in the Indian Act with the call and ideas continue to be run by a legalized frame- their indigenization efforts. for reconciliatory actions. work based on the intent to annihilate 21 Things can be appreciated from dif- the social and cultural make-up of the ferent levels of familiarity with the Indigenous person. For another, so- BOOK REVIEWS Indian Act. The uninitiated newcomer called amendments to the Act to make The Advocate welcomes book to, arguably, one of the country’s most it more palatable do not necessarily reviews on topics of interest to defining legislations will find the book make Indigenous life easier. The legisla- social workers! To find out more on on the 1876 legislative concoction tive attempts to restore Indian status to our book review guidelines, please unsettling to their modern-day social Indigenous women who have lost it by contact [email protected]. conscience. It’s an introduction to “marrying any other than an Indian” is the Canadian state’s wholesale racial one example; these efforts have created oppression of Indigenous people. complex procedures making status res- Joseph’s succinct discussions on the toration difficult and exhausting. notorieties of the Act also offer insight- Joseph asserts that dismantling the Act ful points for those interested in a more is the ultimate way out of the linger- in-depth understanding of the law, its ing official oppression. His belief that EUGENE IP is a retired social worker and a previous impacts and development. in the Act’s place, “we will need some member of the ACSW Advocate Editorial Board.

THE ADVOCATE 19 RESEARCH & LEARNING IN ALBERTA'S COMMUNITIES

HELP SET THE GLOBAL AGENDA FOR THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL WORK Alberta’s social workers invited to be part of “watershed moment” as SWSD comes to Calgary

BY DON MCSWINEY Dean Jackie Sieppert at SWSD in Ireland

THE WORLD’S SOCIAL WORKERS are coming to Alberta. launching the profession in a new direction together. It's The Social Work, Education and Social Development an ambitious opportunity.” Conference (SWSD) will be held in Calgary, July 15 to 18, At the Dublin conference, organizers of the 2020 2020 at the Telus Convention Centre. It’s anticipated about conference asked attendees to write on postcards what 3,000 people, including social workers, policy makers, they thought should top the global agenda in Calgary. One researchers and educators will make the trip to Calgary to of the most frequently mentioned topics will likely be a be part of the biennial international gathering. key theme in Calgary and is central to Canadian social “I am so excited to have this conference come to Calgary,” work: indigenization. says Richard Gregory, MSc, RSW, president of the Alberta In addition, Dean of the Faculty of Social Work, Dr. Jackie College of Social Workers. “I think it's a wonderful opportu- Sieppert, PhD, RSW, believes Canadians have a lot to offer nity for social workers to connect with other social workers the rest of the world in terms of the way social work is from around the world. We oftentimes connect with social practiced and taught. workers locally, provincially and sometimes nationally, “I think part of what participants will learn is really about but to have the opportunity to connect with social workers the nature of Canada itself and the way we interact with from around the world…is just a phenomenal experience.” others in the world. The way that we adhere to values that As you might expect, the international perspective is are important to us as Canadians. In many ways those concerned with the really big issues facing social workers values are very consistent with social work values. It's also across the planet, issues such as upheaval and migration, about the strength of the profession and the way all aspects the systemic causes of poverty and starvation, and environ- of social work, work together in Canada. I think that's a mental concerns –the theme of the 2018 SWSD, which was model for the rest of the world and I'd like to share that." held this summer in Dublin. Jan Christianson-Wood, MSW, RSW, president of the Canadian Canadian social workers will have a rare opportunity to be Association of Social Workers and the North American region a part of setting the global agenda for the next decade in of IFSW says she hopes that all of Alberta’s – and Canada’s Calgary. According to Dr. Rory Truell, secretary-general of – social workers consider being part of this exciting global the world’s largest international social work organization, conversation. Besides having the opportunity to be heard, she the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW), says the conference offers unique opportunities. the Calgary conference could be a watershed moment for “I think that sometimes educators don't get a chance to talk the profession. to practitioners and vice versa,” says Christianson-Wood, “Calgary is going to be the crossroads for the following “and they have so much to share, and we're only going to ten years,” says Truell. “The challenge is to create an envi- get better because of it.” ronment where over 2,500 people feel that they’re not conference participants but representatives, expected to DONALD MCSWINEY is the manager of Communications and contribute into the conversation. If that happens, we'll be Marketing in the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Social Work.

20 FALL 2018 REFLECTIONS OF FIRST- YEAR SOCIAL WORK DIPLOMA STUDENTS BY AUDREY COCHRANE, MSW, RSW

Social Work students at Portage College, Cold Lake campus, with Charity Lui of ACSW

I BELIEVE ONE OF THE GREATEST PRIVILEGES I have as While furthering their awareness of the various fields of a social work instructor is the opportunity to witness the practice, students also developed a better understanding learning and development of students throughout their of how social work values and ethics impact practice; or studies. It’s typically easiest to notice growth in those as one student put it, “I think the biggest shift for me was areas we can measure and observe; students develop more when I entered the program, I thought, ‘I am going to fix effective study strategies and begin to perform better on all the broken people.’ Now I realize that it is a partnership exams, and they hone their writing and interviewing skills in which the client holds the power and controls their jour- through practice and experimentation. Even more exciting ney. We want to empower the client, not fix what we think to me is to witness the shift that many students experience is a problem for the client.” in their values, attitudes, and emotions through exposure Following their first-year courses and practicum, several to new perspectives. students expressed surprise at their interest in a field At Portage College, we had two cohorts of first-year social of practice that they had never previously considered – work students in the 2017/2018 aca- or had dismissed altogether. One demic year; one in Cold Lake and one student shared: “When I came into in Lac La Biche. I was lucky enough the program, I was really excited to be to instruct both groups and witness able to help others on a one–on-one their development firsthand. Curious We want to empower basis. Now I find the structural to learn more about how first year the client, not fix what and policy-making side of social social work education has impacted work fascinating! Advocating and them, I invited them to reflect on this we think is a problem for making changes for the better of for Advocate readers and many were the client all people is exciting! If we don’t happy to share their observations. change the structure/policy, nothing is ever going to change, and we will One area that nearly every student continue to see the same issues over and over.” commented on was their surprise and excitement about the breadth of social work practice; they did not realize Over the course of the year, the students became more how many fields of practice would open up to them with aware of the role their social location has played in their social work education. One student stated, “One thing that understanding of self and the world around them. One surprised me was how broad the scope of practice really is. reflected, “This year I have been challenged to identify We can do almost anything. We are more than ‘I’m here to and work on personal bias. It was eye-opening since this take away your kids.’” Not only did this knowledge increase was not something I ever evaluated in my day–to-day life.” their awareness of the diversity of social work practice but Students acknowledged the impact that colonizing views many students shared this knowledge with friends and and other biases they have been exposed to have had on family members to challenge their perceptions about the their values, beliefs, and perceptions, and began the work role and value of social work. to unpack and challenge these perceptions. Some students

THE ADVOCATE 21 RESEARCH & LEARNING IN ALBERTA'S COMMUNITIES

Social Work students at Portage College, Lac La Biche campus expressed surprise at this shift: “I cannot lie, when Audrey practicum supervisors, recognizing the time commitment told us that we would probably change our personal from supervisors and the value of the mentoring they views on topics after our first year, I did not believe her… I received. One student reflected: “My mentor was amazing, thought I was pretty set in my ways and well aware of what encouraging, and had confidence in my abilities… I was I stood for and believed. Oh how wrong I was. My eyes able to take my practicum and use tools from our program have been opened to injustices, struggles, and obstacles to enhance my skills and become more confident in my throughout the world. Do I know them all? Of course not. abilities.” Another: “I was blessed with two RSWs at my But I damn sure know more than I ever did before.” placement. I was able to learn from two very different people which broadened my knowledge immensely. I had such an amazing time at my placement and it has deepened my love for the field of social work.” Many students expressed relief at the newfound feeling I had such an amazing time at my that they have found a profession they are committed to, placement and it has deepened my and that they look forward to their future in social work practice. Even more exciting than watching them learn and love for the field of social work grow is seeing a spark of inspiration ignite inside them; I look forward to witnessing the impacts they make in their Students noticed that as their values shifted or strength- future practice. ened, and as they honed their advocacy skills, they were more comfortable standing up for these values and challenging oppressive beliefs and practices around them. Many reported that this could lead to interesting dinner table conversations with family. Another theme throughout their reflections was the AUDREY COCHRANE teaches in the Community respect and appreciation the students had for their Social Work Program at Portage College.

22 FALL 2018 ETHICS IN ACTION

This is where social work knowledge and skills are developed in a supportive The Ethics of framework while reinforcing our professional obligations and values. Practice Supervision Practice Supervision as an Area of Practice BY SUZANNE MACKINNON, MSW, RCSW Social workers are expected to limit their practice to areas in which competence has been gained through Practice Supervision its ability to shape the development of education, training, or supervision is a Social Work Value current and future social workers in (Standards of Practice, E.4). As with Practice supervision is highly valued all fields of practice. any area of practice, competence in social work practice throughout in the area of practice supervision the trajectory and evolution of a Practice Supervision Explored can be developed. This topic is social work career. It usually begins The term practice supervision is used readily accessible through courses, while training to become a social to distinguish it from the more workshops, books and articles. worker during field supervision. commonly understood administrative Practice supervision can also be sought Later, it becomes required as part of supervision that happens in an to improve the skill of providing regulated practice to progress from organization, typically by a direct supervision to other social workers. the provisional to general registry. supervisor or manager who may or As part of our professional Ultimately, practice supervision is may not be a social worker. New responsibility, social workers are embraced and honoured as a routine social workers may have specific encouraged to work with managers part of social work practice. practice supervision requirements. and employers to ensure that practice For instance, social workers require Practice supervision can play supervision is available, whether 1,500 hours of supervised practice a significant role in a social inside or outside the practice setting. by an RSW on the general registry to worker’s responsibility to maintain Practice supervision strengthens the progress from the provisional to the professional competence while profession and supports our ability to general registry. More experienced striving to increase professional be a self-regulating profession. We are social workers may rely upon peer and knowledge, skill, ability and in this together! inter-professional consultation as a judgement. The CASW Code of Ethics form of practice supervision. (2005) and the ACSW Standards of Practice (2013) make repeated The purpose of practice supervision reference to the role and function is to provide an environment for safe of practice supervision because and confidential dialogue where social of its value in the profession, its workers can reflect upon and discuss SUZANNE MACKINNON is the Associate Registrar contribution to clients’ outcomes, and their practice and their response to it. of the Alberta College of Social Workers.

PRACTICE SUPERVISION REFLECTIVE PRACTICE CONTINUING COMPETENCE A social worker will have ongoing Practice supervision can be a method of Giving and receiving practice supervision practice/clinical supervision or peer facilitated reflective practice where a social can be used for up to 20 Category A consultation appropriate to their field worker examines their experiences and credits in your Continuing Competence of practice and setting (Standards of improves how they work. This is an aspect Portfolio. Full-time Registered Clinical Practice, G.1.g). of life-long learning that can build confi- Social Workers (RCSW) require a minimum dence in proficient social work practice. of 10 hours of Clinical Supervision.

THE ADVOCATE 23 FEATURE STORY

I can no longer identify as pro-choice because I am tired of talking about personal choices as if they occur outside Why I Can No of political, social, and medical systems. Even though for many pregnant people having an abortion is a finite experience in their life that they will not think of as being inher- Longer Identify ently political, I think beyond a person’s right to abortion as being just an individual choice. We need to be talking about what women and transfolks collectively need – the right to as Pro-Choice control our political, social, financial, and physical lives by An Abortion Advocate Speaks Out each being able to be the sole determiners of whether and how our bodies are used to sustain life. Whereas choices are BY JESSICA SHAW, PHD, RSW individual and are tied to a person’s ability to access resources, rights are collective and compel governments, systems, and societies to fulfill their obligation in ensuring that peo- I HAVE SPENT MORE THAN A DECADE arguing for abor- ple can exercise their rights, regardless of resources. tion rights. I have financially and physically helped people I can no longer identify as pro-choice because I believe that get abortions. I have given dozens of talks to social workers, saying the word abortion out loud is an important part of medical students, physicians, nurses, and students about how I can try to combat abortion stigma. With research abortion myths and about why abortion is a necessary part estimating that one in three women will have an abortion of healthcare. I helped to create a 24-hour toll-free national at some point in their life, abortion is a normal experience. information and abortion referral line that continues to Shrouding normal experiences with vague language gives operate today. I wrote my PhD dissertation about abortion providers as physicians of conscience. I have done all of this abortion advocacy work and more, but in good conscience, I can no longer call myself pro-choice. Up until now, I called myself pro-choice for the same People have the right to have children, reasons that other individuals and organizations continue to not have children, and to parent to do so. The language of being “pro-choice” is palatable and it has good branding: almost everyone knows what the children that they have in safe and you are talking about without having to say the politically healthy communities. divisive and socially awkward word “abortion”. However, the longer I work on abortion issues, and the more I invest my time and energy into social justice issues, the the illusion that the experience is something that should more obvious it becomes to me that I can no longer say not be talked about. Not talking about experiences creates that I am pro-choice. and reinforces the idea that they are marginal and shame- ful. I am loath to stigmatize and shame any person’s abor- No, I haven’t “flipped sides”. In fact, I still feel deeply pas- tion experience, and I am committed to saying abortion out sionate about supporting abortion rights. I can no longer loud as one way to normalize the experience. call myself pro-choice because I finally acknowledge and appreciate what Indigenous people, anti-poverty activ- I can no longer identify as pro-choice because it silos ists, and women of colour have been telling the rest of us abortion as a single issue – something that it has never for years: choices are meaningless if you don’t have the been – and I can no longer ignore the other social justice rights and resources to realize them. Having the legal right issues that are intimately connected to reproductive rights. to choose abortion means nothing if abortion services are Reproductive justice is a term coined by women of colour inaccessible to you, if abortion stigma keeps you fearful and after the 1994 International Conference on Population and silent about your needs and your experiences, and if the Development, and popularized by the American-based col- state and medical systems do not support your needs. lective SisterSong. It is a newer term for a very old concept,

24 FALL 2018 and is based on three tenets: that people have the right to and conversations without expanding their analysis and have children, to not have children, and to parent the chil- work to include addressing racism, colonization, income dren that they have in safe and healthy communities. inequality, sexism, heterosexism, cissexism, and other inequities. This is problematic. Reproductive justice work is When I think about issues through a reproductive justice not the same as pro-choice work. Reproductive justice work lens, I realize that my work as an abortion advocate must is intersectional and locates abortion where it always has encompass many. Black Lives Matters is a reproductive been – as one experience among the many that make up the justice issue, because the ability to raise children in safe context of people’s lives. and healthy communities is impeded by systemic racism. Decolonization is a reproductive justice issue, because we While I can no longer identify as pro-choice, I am also hesi- cannot separate the violence that we have done – and still tant to identify as a reproductive justice worker. As a move- do – to Indigenous women and girls from the violence that ment that was and is led by Indigenous people and women we have done to Indigenous land. Income inequality is a of colour, I believe that my place as a white ciswoman is reproductive justice issue, because in a country as wealthy to support the principles of reproductive justice, without as ours, it is a tragedy that some people still obtain abor- coopting the language for the benefit of my own work. tions because they cannot afford a(nother) wanted child. I do fully support the intersectionality of the work that Gender and sexual diversity issues are reproductive justice reproductive justice advocates do, and I will continue to issues, because anytime our bodies and identities are regu- follow their lead on reproductive justice issues. For the lated and social mores are imposed onto us, we all lose. abortion work that I continue to do, I choose to use a rights- In Canada, we have been slower than our American friends based framework and rights-based language to describe to take up the call of reproductive justice. In some cases, my work. I support reproductive rights. I support abortion people and organizations have simply exchanged the term rights. I am an abortion advocate, but I can no longer iden- “pro-choice” with “reproductive justice” in their literature tify as pro-choice.

THE ADVOCATE WELCOMES YOUR SUBMISSIONS!

Articles and letters to the editor can be sent for consideration to [email protected]. JESSICA SHAW is an assistant professor with the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary and a full-spectrum doula. She can be reached at [email protected].

THE ADVOCATE 25 DAY IN THE LIFE

NUHELOT'INE THAIYOTS'I NISTAMEYIMÂKANAK: the DAY IN THE LIFE Dene and Cree words refer to the ancestors of these Indigenous groups, highlighting the focus on ancestral knowledge, culture, and tradition at the University nuhelot'ine thaiyots'i nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills. Likewise, ancestral wisdom falls at the heart of the work Sharon Steinhauer performs in her role as Team Lead for Social Work Programs at the school, colloquially called Blue Quills, and located in St. Paul, Alberta.. Steinhauer's day-to-day work ranges from administrative to advisory, educational to exploratory. In addition to teaching one course each term, she works with the core social work faculty and sessional instructors to deliver the school's social work program, while making tweaks to the curriculum and course offerings as needed. The job's demands are diverse, she explains, often changing by the day, month, or season. During the university term, for example, Steinhauer teaches courses on addictions and mental health or community development for three hours each week. Outside of the classroom, she leads and supports the university's social work diploma program, coordinating staff, supporting the program's growth and development, managing budgets, and meeting program accreditation requirements, while doing her own research, writing research proposals, performing admission interviews, advising current students, and participating in faculty and BY ANDREA ANDERSON staff meetings. Steinhauer also fields requests from the dozens of groups that tour the school annually, and delivers seminars and educational workshops that draw from Blue Quills' history to offer SHARON cross-cultural education to social workers, health providers, school teachers, and other community organizations. The university is owned and operated by seven First STEINHAUER Nations communities, and serves some 200 to 300 students per year from a mix of cultural backgrounds. MSW, RSW But local Indigenous communities did not always have a say in the school's operations. The site operated as University residential school from the 1930s to late '60s. When it nuhelot'ine thaiyots'i came time to shut down the church-run facility, local Indigenous groups staged a lengthy sit-in, demanding that nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills be turned over to the community. Blue Quills After a stint as an elementary school, the institute began offering post-secondary programs from centres such as

26 FALL 2018 University nuhelot'ine thaiyots'i nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills the University of Calgary in the mid- “People come here and they get a But Blue Quills had its own draw, 1970s, Steinhauer recalls. And in the unique perspective because of the offering other opportunities for ongo- past few decades, Blue Quills has also history,” Steinhauer says. “We try ing learning and career growth — developed its own course offerings to make it as practical and manage- along with something unique. as well, most meeting the criteria for able as possible to understand the “I could see that they had stepped transferability between other post- Indigenous worldview and work in into a decolonization journey and I secondary courses and programs in ways that are culturally respectful.” wanted to support that in some way,” the province. The social worker, who holds BSW Steinhauer says. “That's really what Now, the residential school-turned- and MSW degrees from the University brought me here.” Indigenous-run-university starts each of Calgary, just completed her 20th Beyond its decolonization efforts, day with a smudge and song led by an year at Blue Quills. Prior to that, she its respect for historical knowledge, elder. Instructors have the option of spent 17 years working as an area and incorporation of traditional cer- starting their classes with a smudge as supervisor for the Alberta Alcohol and emonies, the school benefits from its well, Steinhauer notes, and the school Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC), picturesque rural setting she says — a regularly holds seasonal ceremonies, now part of Alberta Health Services. location that provides post-secondary hosts sweat lodges for students or The decision to move to a more educa- opportunities to students who might community members, and runs tional role was not easy, she recalls. “I otherwise travel far from home to outreach and cross-cultural training really did love my work at AADAC … I urban centres to pursue post-second- programs for visitors. was still learning and having fun.” ary education.

THE ADVOCATE 27 “There's some research showing that voice counts. A child's voice has a “Circle Keepers' Guide” using students who start out close to home the same weight as an elder's voice. available research on Circles used by have a higher completion rate of post- Everybody is heard. There's a process cultures around the world. secondary education,” Steinhauer to it.” “When you convene a circle, you says. “So I know there's great value Marrying into a Cree community in invite inter-generational wisdom. We in having post-secondary education Saddle Lake more than four decades often talk about inter-generational right here.” ago sparked her own interest in Circles, trauma. But we also have inter-gener- Steinhauer brings a similar focus on and the approach has since become ational wisdom, and circles is a space relationship building to her personal core to her work on and off campus. that really creates an invitation for it life. She belongs to an organization “I was introduced to traditional to come forward.” called Reconciliation St. Paul that knowledge and ceremony, and the Steinhauer is not only contributing hosts guest speakers, panel discus- Circles process is embedded in the to, but also benefitting from, the edu- sions, events, and ceremonies aimed knowledge and ceremonies,” she cational opportunities at Blue Quills. at improving relationships between explains. “When I came to work at The busy instructor, administrator, community members, particularly the Blue Quills, it was just natural to con- facilitator, and volunteer is currently Indigenous and non-Indigenous. tinue to develop understanding and enrolled in a Doctoral program in After some three decades of service, skills in circles.” Indigenous Knowledge at Blue Quills, Steinhauer recently retired as a Circles have also proven useful as a where she focuses on issues related volunteer from Saddle Lake's Boys tool for teaching Blue Quills' social to Child and Family Services and and Girls Club, though she continues work students, who participate in a to serve on the board of a local Indigenous social work. Friendship Centre. In a place where the traditional merg- Within and outside of her academic es with the modern, each day brings role, she is known for her expertise new challenges, feeding a career that and interest in Facilitating Circles — I could see that they thrives on diverse experiences, new learning opportunities, and founda- an approach for building and restor- had stepped into a ing relationships that can be applied tions passed down over millennia. to everything from community build- decolonization journey “For me, this is the right work that ing and decision making to restorative and I wanted to support we're doing at Blue Quills,” says justice or responsibility-building Steinhauer. “It's using both the histo- within families. that in some way. ry of Indigenous wisdom and western For example, Steinhauer trains Family science to do what we often describe program that is largely focused on Group Conferencing facilitators, and as transformative education.” works with families who have come understanding the self in the first year in conflict with Child and Family and families in the second year, she Services to help restore family deci- notes. By establishing these founda- sion-making and responsibility for tions, the school aims to prepare children's well-being. students to work with Indigenous families and in other settings. “Circles is an old tool with lots of contemporary applications, primar- Moreover, Steinhauer says, “many ily when working with people in students come with historic or inter- conflict or where harms need to be generational trauma. Our social work addressed and relationships restored,” curriculum is designed to interrupt ANDREA ANDERSON is a full-time science that trauma transmission.” and health journalist based in Edmonton. She's a Steinhauer explains. “Everybody in a big fan of books, non-fiction storytelling, and circle is equal. People belong. Every She is part of a team putting together outdoor adventures.

28 FALL 2018 FEATURE of all confirmed accidental STORY drug and alcohol poisoning deaths were directly linked to 75% opioids and fentanyl use from 2016 to 2017. There Is Hope individuals who lost their lives A Holistic Approach to the 1.9 due to opioids in Alberta. Opioid Crisis PER DAY

BY SHAYNE VARS, BSW, RSW

I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE of being a part of the the individuals who walk through our doors. Initially Addiction and Mental Health team in Edmonton, specifi- presenting as broken in spirit and feeling powerless, cally working with the Opioid Dependency Program (ODP) within a couple of weeks, these same individuals are for just over a year now. Throughout this year I have seen empowered and hopeful for a brighter future. It’s truly the alarming statistics and witnessed the increase in inspiring to witness this transformation in people and to news stories, in both local and national papers as well as work at a clinic where success is the norm. An analogy across social media. The opioid crisis is on the minds of all we like to use in our clinic is that we provide the tools for Albertans and Canadians at this time. recovery: the medication (methadone and buprenorphine– naloxone, typically referred to as Suboxone), ongoing From 2016 to 2017, 75 percent of all confirmed accidental support from clinical staff, and access to resources that will drug and alcohol poisoning deaths were directly linked enhance an individual’s quality of life. It is ultimately up to opioids and fentanyl use. Furthermore, in 2017, 687 to the individual which tools they utilize, and clinical staff deaths were due to apparent opioid overdoses; to put will support whatever the person may choose. Listening this into context, 1.9 individuals a day lost their lives to the individuals’ stories has led me to conclude that due to opioids in Alberta. (Alberta Health, Analytics and through the use of these medications, they are able to Performance Reporting Branch Opioids and Substances of address social and psychological difficulties at the earlier Misuse, Alberta Report, 2017 Q4) stages of their recovery. It allows them to clear away the These statistics are cause for concern; however, positive physical withdrawal symptoms that may distract them initiatives at our clinic and throughout the province make from recovery, and begin to enhance their quality of life. the future seem hopeful. Our inter-disciplinary team It is so encouraging to see programs that support opioid recognizes the benefit of providing a holistic approach when replacement therapy expand throughout our province. working with individuals experiencing opioid dependency. General awareness is growing, as is real support for those in As with most addictions, opioids do not discriminate who need. There is hope for anyone struggling with an addiction they affect. Young and old, working professionals and issue; they are not alone in their journey and access to transient populations, mothers and daughters, fathers and support is readily available more than ever before. sons, grandparents, those who would be seen as ‘well to do’, and people struggling financially or living in poverty — the For more information, please visit the Alberta reality is anyone can be affected. Health Service website at www.albertahealthservices.ca/services/odp.aspx. Each individual who accesses our services comes with their own unique story; however, most start with “I was hooked before I knew it”. Our inter-disciplinary team offers a wide array of support to people and recognizes the importance of addressing and treating not only the physical dependency of opioid use, but the psychological and social factors accompanied by an opioid dependency disorder. SHAYNE VARS is a social worker in downtown Edmonton at the Opioid Dependency Program, Metro City Medical Clinic and Panorama Medical Clinic. Working at ODP has given me a sense of optimism. I’m These three sites provide services to individuals with a diagnosis of opioid use amazed daily at the success stories and resiliency of disorder who are seeking medical treatment.

THE ADVOCATE 29 Fall 2018 Alberta Public Workshops and Upcoming National Events

EXCEPTIONAL TRAINING AND RESOURCES - Mental Health, Counselling and Violence Prevention All CTRI Workshops are approved by ASWB: ANXIETY IN CHILDREN AND YOUTH – Practical Intervention Strategies CATEGORY A Calgary: September 29; Edmonton: September 30 COUNSELLING INSIGHTS COMPETENCY CREDIT CONFERENCE 2019 THE ETHICS OF HELPING – Boundaries and Relationships Participate in full-day, live Calgary: October 3; Edmonton: October 4 workshops from any location. NARRATIVE THERAPY – Tools for Exploring Stories For a list of workshops Edmonton: October 15; Calgary: October 17 CALGARY, AB being streamed in MARCH 13-15 2018-2019, please COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY – Tools for Thinking Differently visit our website. Edmonton: October 16; Calgary: October 18 SELF-INJURY BEHAVIOUR IN YOUTH – Issues and Strategies Calgary: October 29-30; Edmonton: November 1-2 TRAIN-THE-TRAINER Certification Program for DE-ESCALATING POTENTIALLY VIOLENT SITUATIONS™ De-escalating Potentially Calgary: November 14; Edmonton: November 20; Grande Prairie: November 20 Are you looking for support to be able to help the Violent Situations™ people you are working with? If so, we hope you will join other helpers, caregivers and counsellors for 2.5 Edmonton: November 20-22 CRITICAL INCIDENT GROUP DEBRIEFING Calgary: November 15; Edmonton: November 19 days of inspirational speakers, panels and workshops. ADDICTIONS AND MENTAL ILLNESS This conference is a unique opportunity to hear from – Working with Co-occurring Disorders several of the authors of CTRI’s book, “Counselling Insights: Practical Strategies for Helping Others with Calgary: November 26; Edmonton: November 28 Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, and More”. Please visit our website for details. Training an internal trainer to HARM REDUCTION – A Framework for Change, Choice and Control deliver these workshops both enhances organization know-how Calgary: November 27; Edmonton: November 29 Early rate: $ 595; Regular rate: $ 685 and saves costs at the same time. (Early rate deadline February 13) With a certified instructor on staff, VICARIOUS TRAUMA – Strategies for Resilience organizations can offer as many workshops as needed throughout Edmonton: December 4; Calgary: December 6 the year. MINDFULNESS COUNSELLING STRATEGIES www.ctrinstitute.com Early rate: $ 1350; Regular rate: $ 1500 – Activating Compassion and Regulation [email protected] (Early rate deadline October 20) Edmonton: December 10-11; Calgary: December 11-12 877.353.3205

THE ADVOCATE EDITORIAL POLICY The Advocate is the official publication of the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) and is published quarterly for members of ACSW and other interested parties. The Advocate Editorial Board encourages submissions from all social work practice areas and perspectives, including: social work research, theory, practice, and education; professional affairs; social issues; the work of the College; member activities; continuing education and job opportunities; reviews of books, journals, and other media of interest to social workers. Articles of up to 1000 words and letters of up to 500 words will be considered, but publication is not guaranteed. Writing from social workers who are ACSW members will be given preference. Copy may be edited to fit the space available or for legal or other reasons. Please contact the ACSW office for full submission guidelines. PUBLICATION SCHEDULE AND DEADLINES Spring issue: January 1 deadline for general submissions (articles, letters, etc.) January 15 for advertising Summer issue: April 1 for general submissions April 15 for advertising Fall issue: July 1 for general submissions July 15 for advertising Winter issue: September 1 for general submissions October 15 for advertising

ALL SUBMISSIONS The Advocate, ACSW, 550 10707 100 Avenue NW, Edmonton AB T5J 3M1 ATTN: Charity Lui: [email protected] • PHONE: 780-421-1167 • TOLL-FREE: 1-800-661-3089 • FAX: 780-421-1168

30 FALL 2018 FOR YOUR INFORMATION

The Advocate’s For Your Information section gives preference to Alberta-based educational opportunities and non-profit events for social workers. Send your submissions to Carlena Johnson at [email protected].

Sexual Exploitation Training & The Future of Child Welfare in Canada Awareness Conference 9th Biennial Prairie Child Welfare October 1 – 2, 2018 Consortium Gathering Calgary October 23 – 26, 2018 Join hundreds of people at Calgary’s FIRST Calgary Sexual Exploitation Training & Awareness The National Conference 2018 is an opportunity Conference. There is a way out. RESET to gather researchers, practitioners, policy Society of Calgary – Rapid Exit from Sexual makers and community member to focus on the Exploitation & trafficking. RESET Society of future of child welfare in Canada. Co-Sponsored Calgary in partnership with Calgary Police by the Provincial and Territorial Directors of Service. To register, visit Child Welfare. THIS IS AUPE www.resetcalgary.ca/reset-sexual- YOUR WORKING PEOPLE For more information, follow exploitation-training-and-awareness- The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees is https://fsw.ucalgary.ca/pcwc2018/call or conference/ proud to represent thousands of social services email [email protected] workers across the province who are on the front lines, making a difference every day. Children Are Our Sacred Bundle Conference Leading Change Summit 2019: October 3 – 5, 2018 Bold Conversations to End Gender-Based Calgary Violence in a Changing World This conference will have speakers who February 19 – 21, 2019 www.aupe.org • facebook.com/yourAUPE • Twitter: @_AUPE_ share an Indigenous worldview, and examine Edmonton history and current trends affecting Indigenous families today, utilizing a unique Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters. grassroots solutions-based approach. For more information, visit Sponsored by Kamotaan Consulting. https://acws.ca/leading-change-summit-2019 ADVOCATE DEADLINES To register visit www.caosb.ca SUBMISSION DEADLINE

For the Winter 2018 issue of the Advocate is September 1, 2018 All editorial inquiries to Charity Lui [email protected]

AD DEADLINE

For the Winter 2018 issue of the Advocate is October 15, 2018 All ad inquiries to Visit the ACSW Events Calendar to find more training, events and workshops, [email protected] at acsw.com, Social Workers tab, Calendar of Events.

THE ADVOCATE 31 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40050109 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS 550 10707 100 AVE NW EDMONTON AB T5J 3M1

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS 2019 ANNUAL CONFERENCE CONNECTION TO CHANGE: EVOLUTION, INNOVATION AND ACTIVISM IN SOCIAL WORK

APRIL 4 – 6, 2019 BMO CENTRE AT STAMPEDE PARK – CALGARY CALL FOR PROPOSALS: DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 17, 2018 LOOK FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSAL FORM AT ACSW.AB.CA – SOCIAL WORKERS – ANNUAL CONFERENCE