Our Approach to Healing
My approach to mental health and wellness is culturally grounded and holistic, recognizing and honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, spirit, community, and the natural world. Rooted in Indigenous and Celtic perspectives, my practice is guided by values of balance, harmony, reciprocity, and deep respect. As an anti-oppressive practitioner, I provide trauma-informed care that integrates evidence-informed psychotherapy with ecotherapy, art therapy, and adventure-based interventions. My approach is person-centered, recognizing each individual’s unique strengths, experiences, and cultural context while prioritizing safety, autonomy, and collaborative care. Grounded in love, kindness, and respect, my purpose is to walk alongside each person on their path to healing—authentically, gently, and in a good way.
Hello, Aanii! About Me...
HI my name is Jody! My business name is inspired by my previous Spirit Name 'Red Hawk Woman' which is deeply meaningful to me; as are my roles & responsibilities as a Helper. I have been gifted a new Spirit Name; "Niigann Asiimok" which I was told meant the 1st smoke from the pipe; but am learning it carries many different meanings. I am deepening my relationship with myself as I deepen my relationship with this name. My practice comes from a place of pure intentions & grounded in lived experience, continuous learning & a deep respect for all of Creation. I am guided by Anishinaabe & Celtic worldviews. I have a firm belief that "there is a teachings in everything"knowing that mistakes, challenges & hardships carry valuable lessons when we are willing to reflect & learn once we are on the other side of them. My work is trauma-informed & person-centred, specializing in relationship building, connection, self-care, reflection & discovery & supporting mental health & addictions. I embrace uncomfortable conversations, lead from spirit & speak from the heart, offering unconditional love, kindness, & grounded support. I approach life with a profound sense of gratitude, a sunny disposition & a deep commitment to growth, connection & authenticity. While remaining realistic & naturally optimistic I embrace both joy & the hard truths about life. I am an avid nature lover which includes all elements & beings in Creation. I feel deeply connected to the natural world & include them in my long list of support systems. I am inspired by travel, adventure, exploration, creativity & self-expression. My passion is helping others navigate their journey to healing, growth & authentic connection.
Education
2023-2025
Honours Bachelors of Social Work
Algoma University
I hold an Honours Bachelor of Social Work with an Indigenous focus, complemented by electives in psychology, land stewardship, and environmental studies—reflecting my passion for holistic wellness, human connection, and care for the natural world.
~I am a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and currently in the process of registering with the Ontario School of Social Work (OCSWSSW) (March 2026)
2021-2023
Mental Health & Addictions Worker
Canadore College/FNTI
I completed a Mental Health and Addictions Diploma with an Indigenous focus, grounded in trauma-informed practice and a two-eyed seeing approach, which integrates Indigenous and Western knowledge. The program included a meaningful cultural exchange with the Maleku Indigenous Peoples of Costa Rica, deepening my understanding of cross-cultural approaches to wellness, resilience, and community healing.
2023-2025
Certified Forest Therapy Guide & Nature Connection Facilitator
Global Institute of Forest Therapy & Nature Connection
Naturally Resilient
I completed extensive studies and an 18-month practicum with Naturally Resilient and the Global Institute of Forest Therapy and Nature Connection, deepening my expertise in eco- and nature-based therapies. This training emphasized cultivating resilience, mindfulness, and holistic wellness through intentional connection with nature, integrating restorative practices that support mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
Services
Therapy/Counselling Session
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Initial visit
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One Hour Session
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Mindful Healing: Energy Work, Guided Meditation, Hypnotherapy & Intentional Wellness & Healing
Holistic therapy services for individuals, couples, and families. My approach blends evidence-based practices with nature-based, land-based, and traditional healing methods, creating a safe space for reflection, growth, and emotional wellness.
Whether you’re navigating stress, life transitions, loss, relationship challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, these sessions support emotional regulation, resilience, and personal transformation.
Working together to build a plan of care that feels right to you, I am committed to integrating talk therapy methodologies with creative expression, physical outdoor activities, and connection to the natural world to enhance therapeutic outcomes, cultivate balance, healing, and a stronger sense of self and belonging.
Each session is tailored to your unique needs, honouring your personal journey and desired outcomes, while fostering connection, empowerment, and lasting wellness.
Nature as Medicine
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Personal Individual Eco Therapy Session
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Guided Forest Therapy Walk
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Individualized
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Family/Group
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Customized Nature Connection Session
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1/2 Day
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Full Day
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Weekend Retreat
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Individualized sessions and guided nature walks are designed to strengthen connections with the land, water, trees, and self. These immersive experiences support healing, foster emotional wellness, and nurture deeper connection for individuals, couples, and families.By engaging mindfully with the forest environment—through walking, reflection, and sensory practices—you can reduce stress, process emotions, and deepen your sense of grounding and balance.
Each session is personalized to your needs, blending guided nature connection, mindful movement, and reflective practices to foster resilience, strengthen relationships, and nurture holistic well-being. Reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the natural world in a safe, supportive, and restorative setting.
Healing Through Creativity
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Personalized Art Therapy Session
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Family/Group Art Therapy
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Creative Workshop
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Traditional Craft Workshop
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Land Based Craft
Custom art therapy and traditional land-based craft sessions provide individuals, couples, and families with a creative path to healing, self-expression, and connection. Using techniques such as painting, drawing, sculpting, beadwork, leatherwork, and other traditional crafts, these sessions help participants explore emotions, build resilience, and deepen cultural and personal connection.
Each experience is personalized to meet your unique needs, fostering mindfulness, reflection, and emotional wellness in a safe, supportive, and culturally grounded environment.
Testimonials
"Jody is doing groundbreaking work integrating nature connection work with clinical and therapeutic applications in her community. Jody has endless compassion and energy, and a skillful way of seeing others as their best self and reflecting that back. As Jody’s Instructor with GIFT, I witnessed how her love of forests and deep relationship with the natural world are at the heart of the work she does, and coupled with her skillful facilitation, compassion and beautiful intention make Jody a masterful Forest Therapy Guide.”
Karen Laine
Coastal Rainforest Retreats
Ucluelet, BC
"Our time with Jody was truly unforgettable! Her gentle guidance and thoughtful invitations kept every single one of us engaged, from the youngest (8yrs) to the teenagers. She created a safe space for reflection & emotion that met the needs of each unique individual. What stood out most was how she helped us deepen our connection with nature, each other & self. It was grounding, calming & surprisingly moving. I left feeling lighter, closer to friends & family and more present. I am so grateful for the way Jody held space for us & would highly recommend her Forest Therapy sessions to anyone looking for a unique & heartfelt way to reconnect with nature"
Ashley Middaugh
R.P.N
Webwood, ON
"I cannot recommend Jody enough. From the moment I entered her beautiful space, I felt a calming, comforting, and peaceful energy. Her kindness, warmth, and authenticity shine through in every word. She is genuinely empathetic and empowering, guiding me with care while gently challenging my unhealthy coping patterns. She helped me replace self-sabotaging behaviors with resilience, showing me that I have the strength to navigate difficult times and achieve my goals. Every session with her is transformative, grounding, and inspiring."
R.L.O~ Manitoulin Island, On
"Jody’s unconditional love and healing presence helped me through the hardest time of my life. During my divorce, her kindness and empathy created a safe space where I could process, heal, and find my strength. I’m forever grateful for her support."
C.K
Little Current, On
Get in Touch
Contact Us Today
I welcome you to reach out for appointments, customized bookings, workshops, general inquiries, or collaborative opportunities—I look forward to connecting and exploring how we can work together in support of wellness and healing.
