About me
Joanna Gladue, a proud Nehiyaw Cree woman from the Treaty 8 Bigstone Cree Nation, embodies a profound connection to her Indigenous heritage, both in her personal and professional life. Although her familial roots lie in Northern Alberta, she has spent most of her life in Edmonton, amiskwacîwâskahikan. Joanna's career spans frontline roles and supervisory positions, with a significant focus on Indigenous wellness, education, and trauma therapy. She has been instrumental in developing and implementing Indigenous health programs, creating educational curricula, and producing resources for profit and non-profit organizations. Additionally, Joanna is an experienced keynote speaker and workshop facilitator. With over a decade of dedicated work as a trauma therapist, Joanna has extensive experience supporting Indigenous populations, working in both urban and rural communities in Alberta. She also has over eight years of experience in educational settings, serving as an Indigenous family liaison, education consultant and school counselor. Joanna is the founder and owner of Mamiwesin Counselling and Consultation Services, an agency that employs a two-eyed seeing approach, blending Indigenous perspectives with Western methods of wellness and healing. She offers professional development training on best practices for working with Indigenous populations to school staff, counseling agencies, and government organizations. Beyond her professional achievements, Joanna is deeply engaged with the Indigenous community in Edmonton. She actively participates in cultural events such as round dances and powwows and showcases her intricate beadwork at artisan markets. Rooted in cultural beliefs, Joanna upholds Indigenous teachings in every aspect of her life, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to preserving and sharing her traditions.
