Shala Symonds

Grounded in anti-oppression, anti-racism, anti-colonialism, and intersectional feminism, Shala aims to create a space where Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) can be centered, seen and heard. She views wellness holistically and recognizes the transformative potential of therapy that is rooted in social justice. Shala’s goal is to walk alongside clients in their healing journey, gently supporting them to overcome both cognitive and tangible barriers to their goals. Through a culmination of evidence-based approaches, including psychoeducation, mindfulness practice, CBT, and other modalities, Shala assists clients with breaking cycles of undesired behavior patterns, and supports the development of skills and tools for navigating life’s hardships. 

 

CREDENTIALS & TRAINING

• Bachelors of Social Work (BSW)

• Masters of Social Work (MSW)

• Registered Social Worker (RSW) with BC College of Social Workers (BCCSW)

• Registered member of the BC Association of Social Workers (BCASAW)

• Essentials of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Training, Beck Institute

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Training 

• Acute and Primary Care Social Work

• Adult Guardianship Training 

• Brief Solutions Focused Therapy 

• Anti-Oppression & Anti-Racism Training

• Policy Analyst Support, Ontario Human Rights Commission Practicum (2015 - 2016) 

• Research and Policy Analyst Assistant, Anti-Racism Directorate, Ontario Cabinet (2016 - 2017)

• Support Worker, Aboriginal Mothers’ Centre Society (Transitional Housing)

• Student Researcher, First Nations Health Authority

• San’Yas Indigenous Culturally Safety Training 

• Youth Worker, For Youth Initiative (FYI)

• Associates of Arts Degree, Psychology Major