Wherever You Are: A Social Work Month Learning Series

Monica has over 25 years of experience working in the community-based social services field as a Therapist and Community Educator. She is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor, Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, and Focusing-Oriented Therapist. Monica has worked both in clinical settings for various programs and served in a leadership role as Director of Clinical Practice, providing her expertise to clinical and non-clinical programs that focus on family preservation and reunification, complex intergenerational trauma, trauma-informed practice, and clinical supervision. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a private counselling practice where she incorporates somatic work, play and expressive therapies, and interpersonal neurobiology in her work with children, youth, and adults. Monica believes in the power of human resiliency and the importance of building the capacity of paraprofessionals and non-clinical workers because they play a vital role on the therapy spectrum. As a trainer, she brings stimulating stories and a style that promotes engagement and facilitates learning.

Danielle has over 15 years of clinical experience working in front line mental health, consulting and teaching roles. She is a Registered Psychologist and holds a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy. In addition to training with CTRI, she has a private clinical practice working with individuals, couples and families on a variety of mental health issues. As a therapist, Danielle brings a strong desire to facilitate excellent and enjoyable learning experiences to her workshops that reflect her compassion, warmth and humour.

Jennifer Slay is a Registered Social Worker with nearly two decades of experience in the child welfare system, serving as a social worker, trainer, and manager. She is the Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Decolonization at King's University College and operates her own psychotherapy practice, where she primarily works with women navigating feelings of depression and anxiety. Jennifer is passionate about helping people overcome their fears and realize their full potential. By incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), positive psychology, and mindfulness techniques, she empowers her clients with tools and strategies to build confidence and create meaningful change in their lives. A dynamic and engaging facilitator, Jennifer brings energy, humor, and deep insight to every session. She emphasizes the importance of communication as a cornerstone of healthy relationships—whether with yourself or others. Attendees of her webinars can expect a transformative experience filled with practical strategies and powerful moments of reflection.

Wilma is a family therapist, former mental health nurse, and the editor of our Counselling Activities Workbook. She is also CTRI’s Content Curator and holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Certificate in Adult Education. Wilma has over 30 years of experience in mental health, primarily working with individuals and families impacted by severe and persistent mental illness. She also taught mental health and family nursing at Red River College. Wilma currently provides consultation, clinical support, and education for families, communities, and organizations. She is passionate about promoting recovery from the impact of mental illness and trauma in families. Wilma believes healing occurs within relationships, through therapeutic conversation. She values diversity and takes a strengths-based, holistic, and relational approach in her work. As an educator, Wilma seeks to engage learners through active learning and to be responsive to their unique needs and goals.

Lateef began his career in the helping field over 25 years ago, and his work has spanned the private and public sectors, as well as community and acute care, an intensive outpatient program (IOP), and day hospital settings. He has extensive clinical experience providing addictions and mental health support to adolescent and adult populations in a wide range of capacities, including as a clinical supervisor, clinician, and educator. As a therapist, Lateef focuses on balancing acceptance and change with clients while developing skills to enhance their capacity for both. His approach is one of compassion and collaboration, recognizing that people are resilient and have inherent wisdom about their lives, and are hardwired for connection with others. Lateef holds a Master of Science in Social Work (Advanced Clinical) from Columbia University, and he is a Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW), as well as an Approved Clinical Supervisor with the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW). In addition to being a trainer with CTRI and ACHIEVE, he is an Assistant Professor at Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary, where he continues to inspire and be inspired by students and diverse colleagues. Lateef believes that helpers are energized by fresh ideas and approaches. As a trainer, he draws on his passion and professional experience in the field to provide energetic, enlightening, and interactive presentations.