The general introductory course which we previously offered was not a helpful foundation for our students. Dick offered this course, PSYC 101, for the first time in January, 1998. She has been a sessional lecturer in the faculty of social work off and on since the early 1980's, and has been a permanent faculty member since 1990. Throughout the last twenty-eight years, Joan has worked with First Nations individuals, families, groups and Nations. Her research has also focused on First Nations development.
Participatory research is a particular strength.
Joan brings a strong background in counselling and healing approaches, and provides individual counselling and family counselling to the students, as needed. She also enjoys developing workshops and conferences with the students for the urban First Nations community. A priority in her teaching is to blend theoretical and experiential learning. She is able to encourage students to work on their own issues and healing, and enables them to integrate that process into their professional development. Joan teaches SW 200, SW 402, SW 411, SW 416, SW 417 and SW 425.