Charmaine Denny
Eskasoni
Summary
Compassionate and culturally grounded social work professional with a Master of Social Work (Indigenous Field – Wholistic & Land-Based Healing, in progress) and 8+ years of experience advancing mental wellness, grief and loss healing, and social justice in Mi’kmaq communities. Skilled in trauma-informed, culturally relevant interventions that integrate traditional teachings with evidence-based practices. Proven ability to lead community healing initiatives, build trust with diverse stakeholders, and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Restorative Practices Facilitator
Eskasoni Middle School
02.2024 - Current
- Facilitate restorative circles and mediation to strengthen relationships between students, staff, and families.
- Integrate Mi’kmaq cultural teachings and values into conflict resolution processes.
- Promote a safe and inclusive school environment through proactive relationship building.
Mental Health Clinician
Eskasoni Health Centre – Eskasoni Band Council
02.2023 - 01.2024
- Provided culturally informed counselling and crisis intervention services for individuals and families.
- Facilitated psychoeducational and activity therapy groups to enhance emotional well-being.
- Advocated for clients’ needs across healthcare, legal, and community systems.
Sexualized Violence Prevention Coordinator
Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Developed and implemented the Nova Scotia Sexualized Violence Prevention Strategy, MMIWG Implementation Plan, and Human Trafficking Prevention Strategy.
- Guided survivors in accessing culturally safe supports and resources.
- Facilitated survivor-led workshops, presentations, and training to promote safety and awareness.
Permanent Care & Custody Social Worker
Mi’kmaq Family and Children’s Services
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Investigated child abuse and neglect cases, ensuring safety through community-based solutions.
- Facilitated family and group conferencing to strengthen family connections.
- Managed case files and provided testimony in court.
Long-Term Protection Social Worker
Mi’kmaq Family and Children’s Services
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Managed caseloads for children in long-term care, providing culturally relevant supports.
- Partnered with police, Elders, and community organizations to ensure child safety and wellness.
Family Information Liaison – Social Worker (MMIWG)
Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association
02.2017 - 02.2019
- Liaised between families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and investigative agencies.
- Provided trauma- and grief-informed support, connecting families with mental health and traditional healing resources.
- Delivered outreach to all 13 Mi’kmaq First Nation communities in Nova Scotia.
Education
Master of Social Work - Indigenous Field – Wholistic & Land-Based Healing
Wilfrid Laurier University
Waterloo, ON10.2025
Bachelor of Social Work - undefined
St. Thomas University
Fredericton, NB01.2017
Bachelor of Arts - undefined
Cape Breton University
Sydney, NS01.2015
Skills
- Grief & Loss Support Indigenous Healing Practices Trauma-Informed Care
- Program Development & Facilitation Community Outreach Advocacy
- Child Welfare & Family Support Crisis Intervention Restorative Practices
- Collaboration with Elders & Cultural Leaders Policy Implementation Case Management
Certification
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Crisis Intervention
- Restorative Justice Facilitation
- Suicide Prevention (ASIST)
- Cultural Safety & Humility
- Grief Support
Community Leadership & Cultural Involvement
- Lead grief and loss healing circles grounded in the Seven Sacred Teachings.
- Organize land-based healing activities: medicine walks, canoeing, traditional crafts.
- Advocate for culturally relevant wellness and child welfare policies in Mi’kmaq communities.
Timeline
Restorative Practices Facilitator
Eskasoni Middle School
02.2024 - Current
Mental Health Clinician
Eskasoni Health Centre – Eskasoni Band Council
02.2023 - 01.2024
Sexualized Violence Prevention Coordinator
Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association
01.2023 - 01.2024
Permanent Care & Custody Social Worker
Mi’kmaq Family and Children’s Services
01.2022 - 01.2023
Long-Term Protection Social Worker
Mi’kmaq Family and Children’s Services
01.2019 - 01.2022
Family Information Liaison – Social Worker (MMIWG)
Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association
02.2017 - 02.2019
Bachelor of Social Work - undefined
St. Thomas University
Bachelor of Arts - undefined
Cape Breton University
Master of Social Work - Indigenous Field – Wholistic & Land-Based Healing
Wilfrid Laurier University
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