Raven Coast Wellness

Do you collect and use preferred names (rather than legal names) for all communications?

—Yes

I believe it's critically important that my clients are able to have their preferred / correct names rather than legal names on forms and communications. If a client has to use a legal name for billing to submit for extended benefits, I will only ever use that name as the client directs me and will always respect the name clients ask me to address them by.

Are the forms used in your practice inclusive of various sexual orientations and gender identities (e.g., opportunities to fill in pronouns, etc.)?

—Yes

Inclusive of all orientations and identities, beyond just addition of pronouns but in how all questions / information are structured. Relationship styles and constellations of families are also inclusive.

Do you and your colleagues ask about pronouns and use them appropriately?

—Yes

Clients themselves are the only people qualified to determine their correct pronouns.

Are you and your colleagues aware of what specific barriers may exist for trans individuals accessing your services?

—Yes

Systemic biases, intersectionality, and power hierarchies all contribute to highly personal barriers trans* folks may face.

Are you and your colleagues aware of what specific barriers may exist for Two-Spirit individuals accessing your services?

—Yes, to some extent

I have only some experience with and information about the culture and experiences Two-Spirit individuals may have, and do not advertise myself as being knowledgeable or experienced in supporting 2S folks specifically.

Do you offer Indigenous 2S/LGBTQ+ specific resources, for example Indigenous Elders or Knowledge Keepers?

—No

I refer as needed in consultation with colleagues who have connection to these resources, but do not have personal connection to these resources.

Are you and your colleagues comfortable asking relevant questions about gender identity and sexual orientation?

—Yes

Gender identity and sexual orientation are subjects many clients work on in this practice.

Are you and your colleagues aware of what specific barriers may exist for LGBQ individuals accessing your services?

—Yes

Systemic biases, normative scripts, intersectionality, and power hierarchies all influence the barriers LGBTQ+ folks may face. This practice is owned and operated by a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Can you and your colleagues distinguish gender/identity dysphoria/distress from mental health conditions?

—Yes, to some extent

Referrals may be made for more diagnostic needs.

Does your practice have gender-neutral washrooms?

—Yes

Are there clear anti-discrimination policies that include gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation in your organization or practice?

—Yes

Are all individuals involved in service provision actively engaged in decolonizing their practices and/or organization? If yes, please type below what actions you and/or your organization are taking.

—Yes

Ongoing education / unlearning via bodies of work by Resmaa Menakem (Cultural Somatics Institute); University of Alberta's Indigenous Canada course; Indigenous Studies course at Camosun College Victoria BC; resources from BIPoC scholars and activists around decolonizing trauma work and looking critically at the institution of psychotherapy as being rooted in values / belief systems of white European men; understanding that colonialism and racism are insidious and do not disappear simply by believing they are unjust structures and beliefs.

Are all individuals involved in service provision actively engaged in anti-racist practices, policies, and systems in their care model?

—Yes

(as above)