UBC School of Social Work | Okanagan Campus

Congratulations to recent UBCO MSW alum Charlotte Spafford on her new position at Relate and Restore Counselling in Vernon, B.C. Charlotte is both an RSW and Art Therapist offering services for adults, youth, children, and families. Her services include Art Therapy, EMDR, and Attachment and Commitment Therapy. We look forward to following along on your journey as a professional Social Worker and wish you all the best.

UBCO School of Social Work is excited to share that our recent alum Naaz Kaur Grewal-Greeno’s Chaa da Cup is expanding and launching its own platform and website in 2025. What started out as a final class project has transformed into a powerful visual and story telling platform for amplifying marginalized voices. It has been a privilege to witness this project evolve from the ground up, and we look forward to sharing more about the project as things continue to unfold. In the meantime please check out Naaz’s Instagram platform

📣 HEY
Are you passionate about your career in , and/or ? Share that passion and help inspire the next generation of health professionals as a presenter!

We are currently looking for health professionals and students to lead interactive workshops and speak on our career panel at the Discovery Days in Health Sciences events at BC Children's Hospital Research Institute. The event date is November 7, 2024. Apply by September 13.

Learn more: cdnmedhall.ca/BCCHRI/presenters


BC Children's Hospital Research Institute MD Financial Management - Gestion financière MD BC Women's Hospital University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia UBC Biomedical Research Centre Chemical and Biological Engineering at UBC UBC Department of Psychology UBC School of Social Work | Okanagan Campus UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences UBC School of Kinesiology UBC Biochemistry UBC Biochemistry Student Association UBC Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate Student Association
UBC Biochemistry UBC Department of Dermatology and Skin Science UBCFamPractice UBC Midwifery ICORD Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia UBC Department of Physical Therapy UBC SPPH UBC Psychiatry BRAIN Lab UBC School of Nursing UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Doctors of BC Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health Vancouver Coastal Health

Congratulations to recent UBCO MSW grad Justin Yuen on his new position with Relate and Restore Counselling in Kelowna. Justin works with teens and adults, supporting them with: Grief & loss, life transitions,
Anxiety, Depression, mood disorders
Disordered eating and body image. Justin also offers services pertaining to Substance abuse & addiction recovery, Mental health for men, IBPOC anti-oppressive practice, and Narrative therapy.

Interior Health (IH) is seeking a permanent full time Indigenous Patient Navigator (IPN) to join the Integrated Health Outreach team at Kelowna General Hospital. This IPN position is part of the of Outreach Urban Health Primary Care team, dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals, with a focus on those experiencing homelessness/housing instability. For more information or to apply visit the link in our Instagram bio or https://jobs.interiorhealth.ca/ViewJobPosting/2035519?ReturnUrl=%2FJobSearch%2Fs-%2F0-23-0-10-70-false-0-5&_kx=78LXEnQOzF65eMLNHWvrWf1Bnllm0yWdiJSmk63JwA0.WSyNZQ

Interior Health is looking for a permanent full time Indigenous Patient Care Quality and Safety Consultant to join their Quality & Patient Safety team. The Indigenous Patient Care Quality and Safety Consultant provides leadership and expertise in patient safety and client concerns management to promote a culture of safety and patient-centered care across the organization in support of program priorities within Quality and Patient Safety and Indigenous Health.
For information, or to apply for the position, please see link in our Instagram bio or visit https://jobs.interiorhealth.ca/ViewJobPosting/2045929?ReturnUrl=%2FJobSearch%2Fs-2045929%2F0-0-0-10-0-false-0-5&_kx=78LXEnQOzF65eMLNHWvrWf1Bnllm0yWdiJSmk63JwA0.WSyNZQ

Meet Megan (she/her), an advanced track student in the UBCO MSW program. Megan is doing her field placement over the summer term and shared about her experience doing a practicum in a private practice:
“Hello! I have the pleasure of completing my practicum at Currents Counselling and Consulting in Salmon Arm, BC. Currents Counselling is a unique, highly collaborative private practice that provides services to children, youth, adults, couples, and families in supporting dignity, healing, and navigating difficult situations in their lives.
Working as an MSW practicum student has been an incredibly rewarding experience so far. It is providing an opportunity to cultivate my passion for assessment and working with youth and young adults who experience violence. I am learning how to facilitate a thorough, meaningful assessment centered around the individual. This assessment lends power to the reciprocal client-practitioner relationship and allows me, as a clinician, to more effectively create a space of curiosity to promote healing and meaningful change in an individual’s life. I am truly enjoying my time here and it is an honor to work alongside such passionate, caring clinicians.“

The summer term is well under way and our UBCO MSW students are at the half way point of their field placements. Meet Joycelyn, one of our first year field students:
“Hi there! I’m Joycelyn (she/her), a first-year foundational student in the MSW program. Currently, I am completing my practicum in the Social Development Department of the City of Penticton. The Social Development Department seeks to build and enhance the social well-being of Penticton by focusing on topics such as childcare, poverty reduction, substance use, housing, homelessness, community safety, and truth and reconciliation. I feel very fortunate to be working in a placement that challenges me and provides me with many learning opportunities. Using the knowledge I have gained from the Social Development team, I have been able to assist on several major ongoing projects, such as formulating a municipal social housing plan and a community resource hub model. Through my role, I have developed connections with key community stakeholders and partners by attending community engagement sessions, action tables, and working groups. In addition to these experiences, I have also been able to collaborate on an inter-organizational grant proposal and was able to conduct extensive meta-analysis. I have thoroughly enjoyed discovering how social work can be applied at a macro systems level and how it can inform municipal governance and policy making. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Social Development team and contribute to fostering a more inclusive, equitable, healthy, and vibrant community.”

UBCO MSW student Hannah is recruiting participants for her thesis project. Hannah’s thesis explores people’s sense of belonging in formal kinship care homes. Formal Kinship care homes are foster care homes with people that the child previously knew prior to coming into foster care, such as a grandparent, friend, aunt/uncle etc. Formal kinship care homes specify prior involvement with Ministry of Family and Child Development. The study plans on exploring the experiences, opinions, and perspectives of those who entered kinship care. Information will be gathered from people who have now aged out of care (over the age of 18). Participants will receive a $25 gift card to a place of their choosing if they wish to participate.

Our Second Year UBCO MSW student Ayla is part of delivering some exciting new services for youth in the Vernon area. Ayla is doing her practicum over the summer term with CMHA Vernon and will be offering counselling services for youth at the Youth Integrative Services Hub.

We are wishing our upcoming grads all the best as they start their journeys as MSW’s. Naaz is one of our recent grads who is already well on her way to an exciting career in Social Work. She shared with us what she has been up to and what is on the horizon as a new graduate from the UBCO MSW program:
“Life has been quite busy since graduating but I wouldn’t have it any other way! Currently, I am a contracted concurrent clinical counsellor with This Space Belongs to You. It’s been incredibly rewarding transitioning from practicum student to counsellor where I have the privilege of connecting with IBPOC and/or q***r youth, supporting them on their journey to wellness.
In addition to my role at This Space, I’ve expanded my involvement as the Local Immigration Partnership Council Coordinator (say that 10 times fast haha) with the Social Planning Council for the North Okanagan. I work with agencies, governments, and businesses across Vernon in fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for newcomers and immigrants.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there! During my MSW, I initiated a final project for SOCW 514 which has now blossomed into its own platform. Chaa da Cup with Harnaaz Kaur Grewal, aimed at amplifying marginalized voices in Western academia and beyond, is expanding this summer and I couldn’t be more excited to see its impact grow. I have had the privilege to speak about Chaa da Cup at UBCO’s FHSD Lunch and Learn series and at conferences such as the International Women’s Day conference held by the University of Guelph.
I am grateful for the opportunities post-graduation has brought my way and I look forward to making a positive impact in our community and beyond! Congratulations to all MSW graduates of 2024—I wish you the best in your future endeavors!”

It is always great seeing our UBCO MSW alum thrive in the field. We caught up with Melissa, one of our grads from 2019 who has opened up her own private practice:
“ Hi there! I’m Melissa, the owner and therapist at Koselig Counselling in Kelowna, BC. I created my private practice to help folks struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, and self-compassion. In fact the term ‘Koselig’ is a Norwegian word that means ‘the feeling of contentment and wellbeing that comes from nature, companionship, and being cozy’. It’s the environment I strive to create for my clients when they come to my office so they can have a cozy place to pause and reflect away from the busyness of their lives. I work with adults of all ages, especially post-secondary students (I offer discounted student session rates), young working professionals, new graduates, folks new to counselling, and individuals who work in high-achieving/striving environments. With a background in social work and psychology, the bio-psycho-social model is the *chefs kiss* of theories that merges my educational pursuits in the perfect clinical embrace. With this foundation in mind I use a blend of CBT, neuroscience, evolutionary psych, and mindfulness approaches to help my clients with their mental health challenges. Check out my website at www.koseligcounselling.com or instagram .counselling to learn more about me. Or email me at [email protected] to book a consultation or session if you’re looking to introduce a bit of koselig goodness in your life.”

Attention current MSW students, alum, and community: This Space Belongs to You is hiring a part time Administrative Manager to join their amazing team. This Space is an IBPOC and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ mental health organization, and is “for community by community”, meaning all staff identify as Q***r and/or IBPOC. For more information and to apply, visit https://thisspacebelongstoyou.com/

Attention UBCO MSW Third Space Charity alum:
and .ca are teaming up to create a supportive space for Third Space practicum alum to help them navigate the world of being a helping professional.
For more information and to sign up, visit the link in the Instagram bio

Attention current students and alum: Diversified Rehab is looking to hire a Mental Health Programs Facilitator. This position is both on site in Lake Country (with some remote work as well). Diversified Rehab is a leader in PTSD, depression, and anxiety treatment. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their resume to [email protected]

The Child and Youth Advocacy Centre in Kelowna is hiring a child and family advocate and a mental health clincian. For more information, visit www.cyackelowna.com

The Kelowna Homelessness Research Centre, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, and St. Michael’s Unity Health Toronto are hosting a Speakers Panels on Intersectionality & Homelessness on April 26, 2024.
Attendees are welcome to join in-person at the Central Okanagan United Church or virtually via Zoom. This is a free event, open to the public, and will feature two different panels: one focusing on seniors and homelessness and the second focusing on 2SLGBTQIA+ and homelessness. For more information, or to secure your ticket, visit https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/intersectionality-homelessness-speakers-panels-tickets-860947245387?aff=oddtdtcreator (link in Instagram bio).

Join a Community Conversation with The Other People To Make a World of Difference on Tue, Mar 26, 2024 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM PDT
KCR Community Resources, United Against Discrimination and UBC Okanagan have partnered to bring this opportunity to learn and engage with people on the important topics of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. This interactive program helps people develop cultural competence in engaging with the challenging issue of hate and racism in Canada. Participate in meaningful engagement with leading members of the Indigenous, Black, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, and Asian/Buddhist communities. This is an opportunity to ask tough and open questions as you learn more about personal bias and how to think of the representation of others critically. For more information and to purchase tickets to this free event, visit https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/community-conversation-to-make-a-world-of-difference-tickets-854067277217?aff=ebdssbdestsearch (link in Instagram bio)

Attention alum, community, recent grads, and soon to be grads: Interior Health has job openings for Social Workers within Kelowna and across the Interior. For more information and to view the postings, please visit
https://jobs.interiorhealth.ca/JobSearch/ (Link in Instagram bio)

Attention MSW alum and community members: The Ministry of Children and Family Development is hiring. They are looking to recruit Child and Youth Mental Health workers in Northern BC as well as a Child and Youth with Suport Needs Social Worker in Penticton. To apply, visit https://bcpublicservice.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/Posting/view/110346 (link in Instagram bio).

Community, staff, faculty, and students are invited to attend The Future of the Internet in Canada: Impacts of the Online Harms Act Bill C-63. This presentation delves into the complexities and implications of this crucial piece of legislation aimed at combating online harms. Presenters Tariq Tyab and Yusuf Siraj explore how Bill C-63 seeks to protect Canadians from cyberbullying, hate speech, and misinformation while navigating the fine line between ensuring digital safety and preserving freedom of expression and privacy.
When: March 18th 4:30-6:00 pm
Where: UBCO Campus (UNC 200 Ballroom)
For more information and to reserve a ticket to this free event, please see the link in our Instagram bio or visit https://events.ok.ubc.ca/event/the-future-of-the-internet-in-canada-impacts-of-the-online-harms-act-bill-c-63/

We are wrapping up B.C. Social Work Week field student features with Clayton (he/him)
“My name is Clayton and I am a second year MSW student currently completing my practicum at the Forensic Psychiatric Services clinic in Kelowna. Forensic mental healthcare has been a primary interest of mine since entering the field and I feel very fortunate to be working in a placement that provides so many learning opportunities and that aligns with my career goals. At FPS, I work with an interdisciplinary team of a forensic psychologist, psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, outreach workers, and a concurrent disorder clinician. Through my role, I have had the opportunity to conduct intake assessments, assist with client visits, connect with external agencies, and shadow the case management process. I also have the opportunity to attend Kelowna Integrated Court, our local mental health court, to connect with and assist clients who are actively involved in the criminal justice system. In addition to these experiences, I am also working with the psychology team to carry out program evaluation and research regarding sexually motivated offences and sexual assault behaviour across BC. Moving forward, I am excited to continue learning with the amazing team at FPS and grateful for the opportunity to connect with clients accessing our services.”

Up next in our B.C. Social Work Week student features is first year Foundational student Sarah (she/her). Sarah has been doing her field placement with BGCO over the winter term.
“For my first-year practicum, I have been at BGC Okanagan, specifically supporting the implementation of the R2 approach. The purpose of R2 is to build resilience in youths, so I have had the opportunity to familiarize myself with resilience research and put it into practice. So far, my practicum has consisted of running groups for youths based on the R2 resilience framework, consulting with staff to implement R2 into their programs, creating infographics for staff about R2, and helping facilitate R2 training for BGCO staff. Although my practicum is based out of the Downtown Youth Center here in Kelowna, I have had the opportunity to run groups and trainings at other BGC locations in the Okanagan. I am looking forward to continuing our work throughout the rest of the semester!”

We are continuing our Social Work week with our first year MSW student Sunny (she/her). Sunny is currently doing her field placement with Moving Forward Family Services, and shared about her experience:
“As a practicum student at Moving Forward Family Services, I’m immersed in a valuable learning experience. Choosing this organization as my first preference was easy because MFFS is known for its dedication to lowering barriers to accessing mental health services. Unlike many publicly funded programs, MFFS operates with minimal wait times and criteria, ensuring that nobody is turned away.
One of the best things about being an intern at MFFS is the abundance of opportunities available to explore various topics of interest and delve into different therapeutic modalities. Two of my favourite training workshops are “Working with Emotional Abuse” by Tyne Bucky and “Introduction to Single Session Therapy” by Windy Dryden.
The entire team at Moving Forward ensures that interns and students are well-resourced and supported throughout their journey. Their weekly group supervision sessions provide us invaluable learning experiences from peers, while consultations with experienced professionals allow us to engaged in insightful discussions and to have the opportunity to seek guidance on client-related questions.
Moving Forward Family Services offers an ideal environment for beginner counselors and social workers to gain practical experience in the therapeutic process, from intake to discharge. Here, we encounter and overcome challenges under the guidance of experienced supervisors, all while providing crucial services to those who need them the most. Being surrounded by like-minded peers who share a passion for helping others is truly inspiring. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the MFFS team.”

Next up in our MSW student features for B.C. Social Work Week is first year Foundational student Lauren
“Hello! I’m Lauren (she/her), a first-year foundational student in the MSW program. Currently, I’m undertaking my practicum at the Child & Youth Advocacy Centre of Kelowna. In my practicum I’ve learned about supporting children and their families and best practices in providing a trauma-informed environment for children who have experienced abuse. The opportunity to gain practical experience within the agency’s multi-disciplinary team environment has been invaluable. Using the knowledge I have gained from the agency team I have been able to assist in the creation of educational content, helping inform community stakeholders and partners about our work. While I have enjoyed many things in my time here, the highlight so far has been co-facilitating a support group for caregivers. I feel so lucky to have the chance to be part of the CYAC’s innovative role in the community response to childhood maltreatment.”

Today marks the first day of BC Social Work Week. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of social workers in our communities. Each day this week, the UBCO School of Social Work will be highlighting one of our Field Education students and sharing about the contributions they are making to our field during their practicum. First up is our first year foundational student Lance, who is doing his field placement with Community Corrections.
“Working as an MSW practicum student at Kelowna Community Corrections has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. I’ve enjoyed getting to know a diverse group of clients and witnessing their incredible strength and resilience, whether participating in group work or visiting local services. It’s been inspiring to see Community Court in action and how different organizations collaborate to help those in need. I feel fortunate for the support of my supervisor and coworkers as I gain hands-on experience strengthening my understanding of the justice system in Canada. This practicum has affirmed my passion for social work and I’m grateful for the opportunity to play a small role in positively impacting people’s lives.”

The Child Advocacy Centre is hiring a Child and Family Advocate to join their team. The Child and Family Advocate plays a pivotal role in providing support, advocacy, and referral services to child/youth victims and their families in a culturally sensitive environment. As a critical member of the multi-disciplinary team, you will ensure a consistent support for the family. To apply, see the link in our Instagram bio or visit https://lovehr.recruitee.com/o/child-and-family-advocate

Attention current MSW students and alum: Arc is hiring School-based Mental Health Counsellors. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to gain experience working in the school system.

The BC Association of Social Workers has created another exciting line up of free webinars and events to celebrate BC Social Work Week (Mar 11th-14th, 2024) with this year’s celebrations beginning a week earlier on March 4th. Leading up to Social Work Week, join the BCASW in a series of evening panels, each with a different topic. For more information and to register, please visit the link in our Instagram bio

Our UBCO MSW winter term 2 field education students have completed their first month of practicum. Learning Plan meetings are wrapping up, and it very apparent that students are wanting to the make the most out of these four months of learning with their respective organizations. Second year MSW student, Halle, is doing a field placement with BC Children’s Hospital and shared about her experience so far:
“My name is Halle and I am a second year MSW student currently placed at BC Children’s Hospital in the provincial ADHD Clinic. Having a practicum in a hospital has provided so much opportunity to shadow multiple departments and areas of social work as well as take part in an interdisciplinary team led by psychiatry. I have been able to partake in the intake, assessment, and follow-up process with families across BC and aid in providing a variety of mental health related resources. I am currently working on creating a support group for caregivers of ADHD youth and look forward to facilitating connections between the families involved.”